Columbia University Japanese Language Program

 

 

Consider studying abroad in Japan. If you’ve already done it, what were the highlights of your experience? If you haven’t, even if you don’t plan to, what are the things you would enjoy the most? Chances are that many of you, in one way or another, answered “time spent with my host family.” Now think about the kind of Japanese you used, or would use, with your host family. Formal? Informal? A mix? How does your use of Japanese language reflect your relationship with your host-family, and to what extent? This talk will examine these questions using actual dinnertime conversation between nine American students and their respective host-families.

Monday, April 7 th, 2008, 6:00-7:30 PM 403 Kent Hall

 

 

 

 

How did you mark the major events in your life, or your parents and grandparents those in their own? Birthday parties? Wedding celebrations? Funerals? Now, consider where these traditions come from. Join us for a talk, in Japanese with visual and other aids, by Dr. Umeda, of the Shinto Foundation, on the importance and origins of Shinto rites and rituals as markers in the lives of everyday Japanese people from birth until death. Immediately following the talk, Dr. Umeda will be on hand to answer your questions and comments. The talk will have something for students at all levels of Japanese ability , so don’t worry about not understanding!

Thursday, April 10 th, 2008, 2:00-3:30 PM 403 Kent Hall