Jordan's family planned a trip to Japan. Before going Jordan learnt about the different currency and what the exchange rate was. he was able to find Japan on the world globe and knew that Japan was in the Northern hemisphere. He also explored the time zone and compared the difference in land mass compared to Australia. Jordan then looked at the population how many people populate Japan land mass compared to Australia. he looked at the history of the chop sticks. Prior to going Jordan was engaged in the planning of the flights, stop overs, the places they were going to visit and things that they were going to need to take. He found out that they needed to take an adapter for the power so that they could charge their phones etc. His mum talked to him about how the toilets might be a bit different and how they may have to sleep on the floor some times. She also talked to him about an Onsen and prepared him for that experience. They discovered that there were cat restaurants - where cats just roamed around the restaurant and liked to be fed. Jordan was most keen about going to Fuji Q Highlands and going on the roller coasters. He was so excited about going that he found it very difficult to sleep several nights before they left. Jordan decided that he was going to do some vlogging while he was away. / Subject Explorer

English Language Arts

• Jordan practiced reading and comprehension skills by researching about Japan's currency, exchange rates, and other travel-related information.
• He developed his writing skills by planning to vlog about his experiences during the trip.
• Jordan improved his communication skills by discussing with his mom about the cultural differences he might encounter, such as using different toilets and sleeping on the floor.
• He explored the concept of storytelling by considering the different places they were going to visit and the things they would need to take.

History

• Jordan learned about the history of chopsticks, which is an important cultural aspect of Japan.
• He gained knowledge about the geographical location of Japan on the world globe and its position in the Northern hemisphere.
• Jordan compared the population of Japan to Australia's population, understanding the difference in land mass and population density.

Math

• Jordan applied mathematical concepts by exploring the exchange rate between his local currency and the Japanese yen.
• He analyzed the time zones between his home country and Japan, understanding the difference in time and how it would affect their travel plans.

Social Studies

• Jordan developed his cultural awareness by researching and learning about the different customs and experiences he might encounter in Japan, such as visiting an Onsen and cat restaurants.
• He explored the concept of tourism and travel planning by actively engaging in the process of finding flights, stopovers, and determining the places they would visit.

For continued development, Jordan can expand his knowledge of Japan's culture by exploring traditional Japanese arts such as origami or calligraphy. He can also research more about Japanese history and landmarks to enhance his understanding of the country. Additionally, Jordan can practice his vlogging skills by creating short videos about his experiences in Japan and sharing them with his classmates or friends.

Book Recommendations

• Lost in Japan by Jackie Bouchard: A heartwarming story about a woman who embarks on a journey to Japan to fulfill her late husband's final wish, discovering herself along the way.
• Japanese Celebrations: Cherry Blossoms, Lanterns, and Stars! by Betty Reynolds: This book introduces various Japanese celebrations and traditions, providing a glimpse into the rich culture of Japan.
• Natsumi! by Susan Lendroth: Follow the story of Natsumi, a lively and spirited girl who learns the beauty of being herself through traditional Japanese activities.