er was beautiful. Today we visited the junior high which consists of grades 7, 8, 9. I think we saved the best for last. This was my favorite school visit. First, we were introduced at an assembly. All 700 students were standing and clapping for us as we entered. I have to show you the video. Then, the group met with the principal who explained basic information about the school. After that, wevisited different classrooms. There were about 40 students in each class. The teacher stands on a little platform so everyone can see her (or is it so
she can see them!). The teachers played tiatako
drums, the koto (the string instrument pictured), and the shakuhachi (a type of flute) in the different music classes. The flute was the most difficult for me. I also had an opportunity to paint in art class and watch students build powered models. 
We each had lunch with a different class. Everyone eats the same school provided lunch. Once again, the students served the food and cleaned up afterwards. It was quite a production. The students slid their desks together and placed table clothes over eight desks. Every student knew what their responsibility was. The Japanese are very serious about recycling. Paper trash goes in one bag, food scraps go in a pot, milk cartons are collapsed, and containers are stacked.
After school, the USA teachers had a question and answer time with the Japanese teachers. It was interesting to hear what their concerns were and to hear what their education system is like. I found out students are never held back up through junior high school. However, they may be retained in high school.
All students are involved in clubs after school. I observed the kendo, judo, and souran-bushi (dancing) clubs. I had never seen kendo (pictured) before and found it quite interesting, scary and LOUD!
After school, the USA teachers had a question and answer time with the Japanese teachers. It was interesting to hear what their concerns were and to hear what their education system is like. I found out students are never held back up through junior high school. However, they may be retained in high school.
All students are involved in clubs after school. I observed the kendo, judo, and souran-bushi (dancing) clubs. I had never seen kendo (pictured) before and found it quite interesting, scary and LOUD!
Tomorrow I will go stay with my host family until Sunday evening. I am a little nervous but I am sure it will be a memorable experience to see how a real Japanese family lives.
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