Nihongo Challenge(日本語チャレンジ) - Challenge Level 4/5

Hello and Konnichiwa(こんにちは!)  

My name is Akiko Graves.  I taught Music and Choir at local public schools and a charter school for over 16 years.  At my previous school, I teach Japanese Language and Culture during the short term in January to the students from the 7th through the 12th grade.  I would like to offer engaging Japanese courses and vocal music courses.  

I earned a B.A. in Music from California State University, Fresno as well as a teaching license in Music.  After receiving a B.A. and a teaching license, I have taught vocal music at elementary schools and choir at both middle and high schools. I also earned a Japanese teaching license in California and taught Japanese at a Japanese Saturday School to young children of the ages from 7 to 10.  In addition, I earned Master's Degree in Education from University of Nevada, Las Vegas. 

I was born and raised in Japan, and I went to schools in both Japan and the U.S.  I teach the Japanese language and culture authentically, and I am very engaging.  My lessons consist of language exercises with activities and games.  I believe that every child can learn, and I use various technique I learned through my teaching experience and from my Master's program.  I ensure that every child will leave my classes feeling accomplished.  

I am married to a wonderful man, and we have a beautiful daughter who is a competitive figure skater.  We live in Bountiful, UT with three cats and one dog.