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About the Course

This program is a survey of US culture and modern topics through the lens of a piece of literature chosen by your home institution in conjunction with one of our academic professionals at ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø. Students are encouraged to read the book in English and reference their native language version when additional clarification is needed. The class will discuss themes of the book in English. Lesson content will focus on the themes of language, culture, and identity. Instructors will use a selection of skills-based texts and authentic materials to guide students through each topic.

Objectives

• Write effective research questions and thesis statements;
• Improve academic skills in the areas of active listening, note taking, skimming and scanning, and critical thinking;
• Improve academic writing skills such as paraphrasing, outlining, and documenting evidence using MLA citation format;
• Improve speaking through group discussions and formal presentations of research findings;
• Demonstrate proficiency in creating visual representations of their research findings in the form of infographics;

This experience became the most memorable thing of my life. My teachers always supported me and worked hard for us. I liked my class because we talked to each other actively and my teacher answered my questions again and again. - Mai K. Japan

Sample Calendar

This four-week course is a survey of US culture and modern topics through the lens of Breakfast at Tiffany's by Truman Capote. Participants are encouraged to read the autobiography in English and reference their home language version when additional clarification is needed.

Week 1

• Introduction to New York
• Breakfast at Tiffany’s (review and discussion on the Japanese character)
• Cultural Differences and Gender Roles – Japan and the United States

Week 2

• Culture and Diversity
• Connections between Language and Culture
• Language Focus: Grammar
• Language Focus: Pronunciation

Week 3

• Culture and Gender Roles
• Women’s Position in Society
• Language Focus: Grammar
• Language Focus: Pronunciation

Week 4

• Group Presentations
• Language Focus: Presentation structure and language
• In-class debate
• Language Focus: Debate structure and language