Japan Around the World Author:Betsy Franco The folktale recounted in this unit is titled Momotaro, the Peach Boy. It is illustrated with line art depicting scenes from the title character's life, including a climactic battle with ogres. It is a fun and fanciful story sure to hold your students' attention, as they begin their education in Japanese culture and family life. Complete follow ... more »up instructions and suggestions focus on traditional Japanese clothing and food, as well as the landscape of rural Japan, and help students produce their own picture book of the story. Cut-out characters and a story mat are included.This unit also helps children learn subjects as varied as language, math and art with activities tied to a variety of Japanese cultural subjects, including: Kanji, the ancient Japanese "picture words;" a Gomoku board game; Tanabata, the Star Festival; Writing Haiku; How to Make a Fish Kite; How to Eat with Chopsticks; and Practicing on a Soroban. Another such activity, Make an Origami Samurai, comes with nine precise steps of folding directions. There are also pages devoted to Japanese food and dress, plus the Flag of Japan, a Map of Japan, and a glossary of terms. Activities are always begun with a paragraph of Cultural Background and a Preparation list, followed by complete, step-by-step instructions. All pages are reproducible and perforated for easy removal.« less