In Japanese primary schools, students take part in various activities beyond their regular studies to help the school run smoothly. Two key aspects of this are Kakari Katsudou (係活動) and Iinkai Katsudou (委員会活動). These activities play an important role in fostering a sense of responsibility, teamwork, and community, which are core values in Japanese education.
What is Kakari Katsudou?
Kakari Katsudou refers to roles and responsibilities that students take on within their own class. Each student is assigned a specific job, and by working together, they ensure that the classroom operates efficiently. Here are some common roles:
Cleaning Manager (掃除係, Souji Gakari): Responsible for cleaning the classroom, hallways, and sometimes even the restrooms to keep the school environment clean and tidy.
Blackboard Manager (黒板係, Kokuban Gakari): Cleans the blackboard and ensures it’s ready for the next lesson.
Class Leader (日直, Nicchoku): Acts as the leader of the day, greeting the teacher and leading the class in daily routines.
Other roles might include taking care of classroom pets or plants, managing classroom supplies, or being responsible for turning the lights on and off. These activities help children learn how to contribute to their environment and work with others.
What is Iinkai Katsudou?
Iinkai Katsudou refers to committees where older students, usually from 4th to 6th grade, take on broader responsibilities that impact the whole school. Each student joins a committee and works with others from different classes to manage important school-wide tasks. Some examples include:
Library Committee (図書委員会, Tosho Iinkai): Manages the school library, helps organize books, and promotes reading activities.
Broadcast Committee (放送委員会, Housou Iinkai): Operates the school’s broadcasting system, playing announcements or music during lunch.
Health and Safety Committee (保健委員会, Hoken Iinkai): Assists with health-related tasks like ensuring classrooms have proper hygiene and helping the school nurse when needed.
These committees allow students to take on more significant roles, develop leadership skills, and contribute to the broader school community.
Why Are These Activities Important?
Both Kakari Katsudou and Iinkai Katsudou help students develop a strong sense of responsibility and teamwork. By participating in these activities, children learn to take care of their surroundings, work with others, and feel a sense of accomplishment from contributing to their school. These tasks also reflect the Japanese value of "collective responsibility", where everyone plays a part in maintaining harmony and order.
In this way, Japanese schools help nurture not only academic skills but also essential life skills that will benefit students as they grow into adults.
Did/Do your school have these roles and tasks for students? Let me know in the comments!
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