Why Take Japanese in High School?

Japanese is good for the brain and therefore helps with learning ALL high school subjects

Japanese has both a logographic (where a picture denotes a meaning) and syllabary system (where a syllable is denoted by a ‘letter’). This means that there is more brain activation than with an alphabet system. Therefore the learning of Japanese stimulates the brain. “A bilingual brain appears to have certain cognitive advantages over a monolingual brain in terms of linguistic flexibility and multitasking.”1

1Maryanne Wolf, PhD in cognitive neuroscience, p. 107, The Story and Science of the Reading Brain

Japanese is fun!

Students are regularly surprised at the ease with which they are able to pick up this language and how much fun they have in class where lots of games and interactive language activities are used.

Learning Japanese increases employment opportunities

When employers look for employees, they are looking for people who demonstrate diligence in their studies, open-mindedness, willingness to take risks, and can function well in a diverse environment. These are the kinds of skills and attitudes that are promoted in class. Alberta has numerous Japanese companies that operate in Edmonton and Calgary.

Learning the language helps one understand Japanese culture

Anime, manga, sushi, karaoke, bonsai, origami, kimono, karate, samurai… These are just a few of the Japanese words that have become part of our English language. Taking Japanese in school allows the student to gain insight into these cultural phenomena.

This one is for parents! Learning Japanese promotes a respectful attitude

Embedded within the Japanese language structure are levels of politeness and honor. Students at JP who have taken this course have said that they learned to listen and respond to people with more deference and respect in their lives as this is an integral part of the Japanese language.

From a student’s perspective:

"The subject completely opens your world view and gives a different perspective of the Japanese culture. As for me, it definitely captured my interest and was a fun and very enjoyable class." Zibusiso Ncube

“In this place we have the best interaction between classmates and teacher; in this class we can learn not just about the Japanese language; in here we share, we laugh, and we become friends with everyone.” Alina Yang