I need to bring a special gift for the family that I live with for a few days. Here is an excerpt from the Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher Education Program handbook explaining about the gift:
It would be very nice if you would bring a nongendered gift for your host family, as they are volunteers who will open up their homes for you to experience an ordinary Japanese life. ... These could be a hard cover photo book of American scenery, or of your state, or a decorative item representing your region, a Tshirt, sweatshirt or baseball cap with the logo of your state, school or local sports team. It should be no more than $40 or so. Be creative with your gift.
So, which one of my creative students can suggest the most appropriate gift. (Also, remember, it needs to be able to fit easily in the ONE suitcase that I'm allowed to bring.)
Friday, April 18, 2008
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Thanks to those who save me from social embarrassment!
Today, I received the handbook for the Japan Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher Program. It was 35 pages packed with information I need to know about my trip.
I felt I already knew many of the things mentioned in the handbook because some of my students were thoughtful enough to provide me with etiquette tips. I found many of the tips that students provided helpful. Thanks to Taquitot3, Lauren, Mariah and Angelica who all explained the importance of clean socks and using slippers indoors. My handbook said that students, teachers and visitors all wear slippers while in the classroom. (The handbook even suggested bringing our own because American feet tend to be larger than those of our Japanese hosts.)
Several of you made great suggestions about proper introductions when you first meet someone (Thanks Kyle, Akash, Allyson and Sam). Did you know that swapping business cards is very important? When someone gives you a card you are supposed to take it with two hands – not one. You examine it carefully and then put carefully away (never write on it, that’s rude!).
I won’t forget to slurp my soup and I’ll try to use my chopsticks correctly thanks to the advice of Jordan, C.Costa and the rest of you.
Josh made an interesting suggestion of bringing videos, but I’m not sure if the Japanese people would like “The Last Samurai.” They might find it insulting or exploitive. I will try to find out, Josh and report back to you.
Finally, I’ll know exactly what to say in important situations, thanks to Mickeys93420 and Serena.
Many of you, but especially Brianna, provided tips about using the bath tub. You were absolutely correct. I will be staying for a few days with a family, so it is important to know that you wash before getting into the tub since the water is shared by all members of the family.
Thanks to those who saved me from social embarrassment!
I felt I already knew many of the things mentioned in the handbook because some of my students were thoughtful enough to provide me with etiquette tips. I found many of the tips that students provided helpful. Thanks to Taquitot3, Lauren, Mariah and Angelica who all explained the importance of clean socks and using slippers indoors. My handbook said that students, teachers and visitors all wear slippers while in the classroom. (The handbook even suggested bringing our own because American feet tend to be larger than those of our Japanese hosts.)
Several of you made great suggestions about proper introductions when you first meet someone (Thanks Kyle, Akash, Allyson and Sam). Did you know that swapping business cards is very important? When someone gives you a card you are supposed to take it with two hands – not one. You examine it carefully and then put carefully away (never write on it, that’s rude!).
I won’t forget to slurp my soup and I’ll try to use my chopsticks correctly thanks to the advice of Jordan, C.Costa and the rest of you.
Josh made an interesting suggestion of bringing videos, but I’m not sure if the Japanese people would like “The Last Samurai.” They might find it insulting or exploitive. I will try to find out, Josh and report back to you.
Finally, I’ll know exactly what to say in important situations, thanks to Mickeys93420 and Serena.
Many of you, but especially Brianna, provided tips about using the bath tub. You were absolutely correct. I will be staying for a few days with a family, so it is important to know that you wash before getting into the tub since the water is shared by all members of the family.
Thanks to those who saved me from social embarrassment!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
A Special spot for Striving Students
Okay, all of my students... truthfully, not all, but a lot of my students... Well, no...a couple of students want a special spot to research and find Interesting facts and trivia about Japan. For the dedicated few... this is the spot.
I truly appreciate your interest in my trip. Because of your help, I hope you consider my trip, part your trip, too!
I truly appreciate your interest in my trip. Because of your help, I hope you consider my trip, part your trip, too!
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