Though I enjoy visiting hearing schools, there is just something that adds a bit of zing when working with deaf kids! I presented to a group of four students on Tuesday about ISD. They seemed interested and it was fun. It is so frustrating though not knowing Japanese sign language. I told Yao if only I could see the JSL and hear the English I'd have no problem picking up the signs. Knowing JSL would be convenient to talk to both the hearing teachers and the deaf people.

In the afternoon we discussed plans for the fall and the pair project. This evening I was going to go to a movie but instead stayed home and cooked spaghetti.

Wednesday I presented twice to the students. First was about ISD and then I did ASL. The LCD machine does not like to cooperate with my computer- luckily Nakamura gets it to work. The ASL was fun. I taught counting and then how to represent activities you did in the past (last week, two days ago, ect). I was tired after the two lessons!!! Haha

I do find teachers' lunch time interesting. I knew the kids served each other but didn't realize the teachers do the same. The school provides lunch (the teachers do pay for it though) for the teachers and they take turns serving each other. Also, they are not permitted to leave during their lunch period. Definitely different than us!

Another teacher, unfortunately I do not remember how to spell his name, took me around to see the vocational classes. The students can continue after high school to earn certification in a vocational career. I think that is a great opportunity for the students. The vocational program provides training in woods (there was a desk I would love to take home that was made by students!), cosmetology, metals, computer design and others.

On Thursday I taught some more and it appeared to go well. In the afternoon I had the opportunity to observe a special activity. Students from a hearing vocational school who are learning sign language came over to interact with the deaf vocational students. The program was completely student lead. It was extremely organized and well-done. The deaf students first used a PP to teacher some sign language, then played a game of charades followed by a basketball tournament. It ended with snacks for everyone. It was really neat to see the groups together. And as I mentioned, I was totally impressed that it was fully student centered and student lead.

Friday I taught some more sign language and played PP "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" with the students. It is difficult teaching older students. They are well behaved and interested but I wonder if the lessons are a little bit off because I am use to teaching younger kids. I met the ALT named Maggie and talked to her a bit. She has been in Japan almost two years and will be going back to the US in July. It was interesting to hear her talk.....she naturally uses some Japanese cultural things in her speech!

Saturday I ventured over to the zoo, Beny Land (a small amusement park) and then to The Mall to see a movie. It was nice to be out and about. On TV that night I came across a show that was teaching Japanese Sign Language. I recognized a few words that I have picked up but was thinking....this show is exactly what I need! If only I had a Babel Fish to put in my ear so I could understand what they were saying! (That is a reference to "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" for those unfamiliar with a Babel Fish!)

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It sounds like you are learning as much from your Japanese teachers as they are from you...It takes a special teacher to do what you and your Japanese teachers do..I take my hat off to ya'll..Enjoyed your posting.
Tom

WOW! Sherry, that's all I can say. Having a deaf student this past year really opened my eyes to the deaf community. The student was very interested when I told him that you would be going to a School for the Deaf here in Japan. (especially because he is leaving public school in the fall and going to a Deaf School in Buffalo.) He is anxious to hear about the signs here and to know if any are similar to ASL. When I see you in Tokyo I would love for you to teach me a couple to show him when I get home.

Is your school in Sendai residential or do students commute each day?

I have to give you credit...not only do you have the oral language barrier but also the sign language barrier. Keep up the hard work, I'm sure it is paying off for ALL involved. What an incredible experience.

Annika

Sherry,

It's great to hear you are having a great experience. Sign language amazes me. I wish I would have had the opportunity to take classes in high school. The high school my husband teaches at has ASL for anyone who wishes to enroll.

Danita

p.s. I have found out how to get tickets to Lion King, but it doesn't look like we will be able to see The Phantom of the Opera over the holiday weekend. Let me know what you think. Some shows are already sold out, but I found availability on Sunday the 16th.

I agree..it certainly seems like a wonderful experience. Thanks for sharing.
Cynthia
Bellwood Discocovery

Good stuff! Babble Fish is also a free translation site on the Internet. Just google it if you are interested. The Hitchhiker's version would be far more convenient. Jim, East High