Date: May 19, 1997

Grade Level(s): 1, 2

Subject(s):

• Social Studies/World History

Using a flannel board and pre-cut paper dolls, students will engage in an activity that will assist them in understanding the concept of the Japanese extended family. This lesson will compliment a unit on Japan.

Goal:

Students will gain new knowledge about the Japanese extended family.

Objectives:

1. The learner will discuss the meaning of family and family roles.
2. The learner will share information regarding their own family.
3. The learner will demonstrate the concept of the Japanese extended family.

Background Information:

This lesson is a hands-on activity that invites students to talk about their own families. Through the interaction students will learn the concept of the extended Japanese family and how family roles have changed through the generations.

Concepts:

The learner will be able to:

1. Learn about each other's families.
2. Learn about the Japanese extended family.
3. Recognize the changing roles of families.

Materials:

1. Paper
2. Scissors
3. Crayons
4. Pre-made paper dolls
5. Felt board

Cut enough paper dolls to represent family members. Color American families in a red, white and blue wardrobe. Color traditional kimonos on the Japanese family members. Draw glasses on the Japanese grand- parents to depict a difference in age.

Procedures:

1. Using the felt board and pre-cut paper dolls, the teacher will place his/her family of origin members on the felt board.
2. Teacher will talk about their family including the roles of the parents.
3. Teacher will talk about his/her family of today and how the roles of the family have changed.
4. Invite student volunteers to come to the flannel board and display their families and talk about them.
5. Display a Japanese extended family - include the oldest son and the grandparents.
6. Explain the roles of the Japanese family. Include the responsibility of the oldest son, the role of the grandparents and the respect taught Japanese children.
7. Compare the American and Japanese families.
8. Explain the changing roles of each culture.