1. SIJ Seven-Day English Seminar

Language Arts Courses

The Language Arts classes are fully divided into small groups according to the participants’ level of English proficiency and age. They learn the basics of how to read and write essays, stories, science reports, and more. During seven days of SIJ, participants learn skills of how to best describe themselves in writing and speaking.

Workshop Courses

SIJ offers two workshop courses that participants can choose one from.

I. Computer Science

The Computer Science workshop focuses on teaching students the basic fundamentals of programming and problem-solving. Students will experience the Snap! language, a powerful blocks- and browser-based programming language that can be used to create animations, games, and tools. They will have a basic foundation to learn more advanced computer science topics in seven days.

lI. Performing Arts

Students create original theater plays from scratch with the help of experienced instructors.They build confidence and communication skills through a series of ensemble activities and exercises. Students practice stage blocking, write scenes, and portray a broad spectrum of characters and experiences.

lII. Public Speaking

The Presentation Skill Workshop focuses on the mechanisms of an effective presentation. Boosting each student’s confidence in their public speaking skills is one of the most important aspects. That can be achieved through various interactive exercises, not just pure presentation skills. We aim to empower students to constructively evaluate their own speeches and that of their peers, formulate original and well-articulated ideas, and engage with the audience to deliver a powerful and memorable speech.

2. Outreach Programs

Junior and seminar high school students from local areas learn from top US University students the basics of essay structure and effective speech and build friendly relationships through group activities. This outreach program has been successfully implemented since 2015.

Oita City

3. SIJ Classical Concert

Since 2013, this concert has been one of the main events of SIJ. It has a wide variety of music, dance and theater work. Team USA (Harvard, Stanford, and even the Juilliard School students) perform on stage and Sumire Hirotsuru, co-founder of SIJ and violinist, has been the music director.

4. Cultural Exchange Daily Presentations

Every member of Team USA meaningfully offers diverse perspectives regarding their interests, travel, research, hometown, campus life and beyond. Participating young students ask many questions and enjoy each presentation during the class.

5. Touch and Feel Japan

Team USA has the chance to experience the Buddhist lifestyle deeply rooted in Oita Prefecture, explore the beauty of nature from mountains to the beaches, and taste delicious local dishes to the fullest. Also they attend various attractions including a fireworks show, hot spring resort, monkey sanctuary, Japanese traditional festival, dances and a lot more. In addition, they attend Japanese flower arrangements, calligraphy and Japanese language classes.