Subject Details

Science

In 1911, we became the first primary school in Japan to provide students with a science laboratory. Yochisha Elementary’s science education is characterized by both laboratory science and fieldwork. We believe the best way to develop a love of science is to be exposed to the natural world. Hence, we aim to develop the students’ love of nature through first-hand experience.

Music

In our music class, the primary goal is for our students to achieve “harmony” with their peers. Singing, a cornerstone of music, is our main focus, but we also want our students to experience high quality musical experiences through instrumental ensembles, creative writing, musical appreciation, and general music education.

Art

First-year students work with crayons, second- and third-year students with watercolors, and fourth-year students and beyond with oils. The main aim is not so much to paint “well”, but for students to explore their unique sense of self through painting and develop the ability to recognize and make the best use of their unique point of view.

Crafts

Students will use their imaginations to come up with original ideas, their minds to make a plan, and their hands to give shape to their projects. By using their hands and coming into contact with the nature and culture that surround them, students will come to better understand their connection to the world and the people in it, integrate their emotions, thoughts, and physical senses, and foster their abilities to concentrate and be creative.

Physical Education

Physical education at Yochisha Elementary is based on the school principle of “first cultivate our bodies and then our minds” and we consider it fundamental to nurturing well-rounded human beings. Our approach involves teaching students to work hard towards a goal in order to feel the sense of achievement that comes with it. We encourage our pupils to set these goals for themselves.

Calligraphy

In our calligraphy class, we focus on ink brush techniques, helping students to understand of the structure of Japanese written characters. We also encourage pupils to express themselves through creative activities in calligraphy, to facilitate their creativity.

English

During their first three years, we try to make students familiar with the English language by playing games and singing in English. From the fourth year onwards, we use smaller groups to ensure that students have the opportunity to express themselves in English and to pursue their own individual interests. Exchange programs with English-speaking elementary schools in Europe, America, and Asia provide the opportunity and stimulus for students to practice and develop their English further.

Information Technology (IT)

The goal of our IT instruction is to help students master the use of information and communications technology (ICT) to find and solve problems and express their ideas. All Yochisha Elementary students are given their own tablet, which is used to learn presentation skills, programming, internet literacy, video editing, and data collection and analysis.