Exploros | Medieval Japanese Society and Culture

Medieval Japanese Society and Culture

Students are introduced to the role of Zen Buddhism in Japan by watching a video of a tea ceremony. Then they read more about the history of Zen Buddhism and the tea ceremony. Next, they work in small groups to research and present one traditional Japanese art form. Finally, they reflect on the elements of traditional Japanese culture and explain which appeal to them most and why.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

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Overview

In this experience, students are introduced to the role of Zen Buddhism in Japan by watching a video of a tea ceremony. Then they read more about the history of Zen Buddhism and the tea ceremony. Next, they work in small groups to research and present one traditional Japanese art form. Finally, they reflect on the elements of traditional Japanese culture and explain which appeal to them most and why.

Students will work in small groups in scene 3 to prepare a poster on a Japanese art form. They can prepare it digitally. If you prefer that they create physical posters, ensure that the necessary supplies are available.

Objectives:

Describe Zen Buddhism and its influence on traditional Japanese culture.
Explain traditional Japanese art forms.

A culture’s philosophy of life is deeply connected to its artistic expressions. In this experience, you will explore this connection in medieval Japan.

Objectives:

Describe Zen Buddhism and its influence on traditional Japanese culture.
Explain traditional Japanese art forms.

photograph of curved lines in sand and stacked stones

Sometimes in your life, you get very busy with many activities and concerns. In addition to schoolwork and chores at home, you may play sports or a musical instrument. You do things with your friends and family, or maybe you have an after-school job. All of this can lead to a demanding schedule.

Discuss student responses. Students may note some of the following: disconnecting from their devices, taking time away from activities, sleeping, maintaining silence, doing meditation or yoga, breathing deeply, and so on.

Now watch Japanese Tea Ceremony.

What did you notice in the video? In words or short phrases, describe what you see as well as the tone of what you see. To list more than one, separate your ideas with a comma, like this: chocolate, piles of whipped cream.

Post your answer

Discuss student responses briefly.

The final screen of the video said:

Chado: Japanese tea ceremony (first practice by Zen priests to achieve a contemplative calm); the Way of Tea.

How did what you see in the video create a sense of “contemplative calm”?

Post your answer

Discuss student responses. You may need to clarify what contemplative means. Note that while some students will find the tea ceremony very calming, others might find the slow pace frustrating. If so, ask them why. Encourage a conversation about how constant activity trains us to find slowness difficult.

When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.