Makuhari International School’s teacher Mr. Veness enjoying a “Magic Maths” lesson with students Xavier and Marcus
Over 200 parents and friends of Makuhari International School filled the gymnasium last month to take part in one of a series of very successful curriculum evenings run by teaching staff.
Parents were given a presentation, along with model lessons on how maths is taught at MIS. After this, they went to their children’s classes where they were given further presentations regarding classroom daily routines. During the maths seminar parents were given advice on how to help children build up their mathematics skills at home, as well as clear explanations about the text and reference books that staff at Makuhari use to teach the children.
Teachers at MIS were keen to promote the understanding that children learn in different ways and therefore teachers may at times educate them in differing ways. Teachers were keen to explain that textbooks are a guide and help, but are not a bible for teachers to follow—after all, if children are all truly different and unique, how could one book “work for all?” Teachers were keen to explain why they teach a grade higher in mathematics at MIS than many other schools, and the benefits that this engenders. And lastly, teachers showed how the school’s curriculum—although based around the objectives found in the Japanese Curriculum—still incorporates those found in the UK Numeracy Strategy. MIS teachers are proud to be able to produce something entirely unique, yet suitable for the children in their care.
Two Lead teachers from the UK were involved in this evening of information that was one of a series of sessions. Previous evenings have focussed on diverse subjects such as “The Use of SmartBoards,” “Reading Strategies for All,” and “How we Teach Literacy,” as well as on the approach MIS takes to teaching Japanese and Japanese Studies.
MIS puts great emphasis on parents being able to understand and be a part of their child’s education and learning experience whilst at the school, and parents found this evening extremely entertaining and useful.
— PAUL ROGERS
