Do I have to like Anime in order to take Japanese?
Nope. Many don't like Anime, even the teacher, but those who like Anime tend to pick up the language quicker.
15
I've heard Japanese is very difficult to learn, is that true?
Japanese is as difficult as you make it, but with Sensei's help and guidance you can find that Japanese can be easy.
25
What is the Japanese teacher like?
Sensei is fun, hands-on, and patient.
20
What is an everyday class like?
There’s a variety of different activities/learning methods (sometimes we practice kanji, read stories in Japanese, take notes, etc). Every day is fresh.
15
What are some of the highlights of Japanese class?
Food, movies, and celebrations
10
What other Washington County schools offer Japanese?
Japanese is only offered in Boonsboro. Even if you didn't take it in middle school you can take it in high school.
20
Why should I take Japanese, there aren’t Japanese people living in our community?
It gives an advantage on college and scholarship applications. Future employers will be intrigued too. Plus we just learn to communicate well with others.
15
When is the next trip to Japan?
Sensei leads a trip to Japan every two years. Our next trip will be in the summer of 2027.
15
Can I learn about Japan and Japanese culture without taking the language class?
Yes, we have Japanese Culture Club that meets monthly on the last Monday of the month. Actually, join us on February 23.
10
Besides sushi and karate, do you know any other words we use in English that were originally Japanese?
Yes. Samurai, origami, and karaoke are some fun examples.
20
How many writing systems are there in Japanese?
Japanese has 3 different writing systems: Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji
25
How will you benefit from taking Japanese?
You will appreciate other people and cultures more and it is just interesting.
20
What if Japanese doesn't fit into my schedule next year?
You can always start Japanese in 10th, 11th, and 12th grade if it doesn't work for your 9th grade year.
15
How are good students rewarded?
We have Japanese National Honor Society at the high school. This is for students with an A average in Japanese and B average overall in all classes.