In their most recent topic Year 9 Geographers have been studying the country of Japan and have just completed their (most exciting!) assessment. The students were set the task to produce and act out a role play on any feature of Japan’s physical or human geography.

The students were provided with a list of suggested titles, for example ‘changes to Japanese culture 1909 - 2009’ and a mark scheme which detailed the criteria for each assessment level. With the scope left open in terms of ideas, imagination was key, and the four classes participating did not disappoint. Ideas ranged from generals briefing their soldiers for war (Japans role as one of WWII’s Axis powers), a children’s play group sing-along, fashion catwalks, guided tours through a traditional Japanese house, reporters caught up in the midst of an earthquake, Japanese folklore, sushi tasting, sumo wrestling and many more.

Costumes, props, sounds, pictures and videos were all encouraged and put to good use. If you glance through the photographs you can see for yourself the effort some groups went to achieve their goal. This year’s plays were the best yet, entertaining and informative, and I would like to congratulate all the groups that took part. Well done.

Mr. Prentice