The Ultimate Event — ‘You did it—!’— for the Children’s Summer Japanese-Language Class Has Been Held—-
On August twentieth–, a Saturday, the final meeting of the Children’s Summer Japanese Language Class was held. With an audience that included staff from City Hall, the Board of Education, teachers, parents, and neighbors, — students presented speeches in Japanese. This represented the culmination of their hard work during the summer course.
Those who had recently come to Japan presented either short personal introduction or speeches pertaining to their favorite foods.
Those possessing more experience, in terms of the Japanese language, challenged themselves with longer speeches about topics such as: dreams for the future, memorable events from one’s time at school, family, differences between Japan and their native countries, and so forth. Each made a salutary effort, expressing their ideas well.
Some, for instance, appeared to be a slightly nervous. Others clearly enjoyed speaking in public, seeming quite at ease. A number of speakers’ presentations were rather emotive. They looked colorful and engaging. It clear that these presentations were a positive experience for them.
Over this past summer, thirty-one children studied Japanese, taught by thirty-seven Japanese-speaking volunteers.
Despite of the long heat wave that occurred this year, they worked assiduously. Copious thanks go out to those who supported this fine effort.
