Japan

Lesson Two: The Way of Tea in Japan

Lesson Summary

As students explore the importance of tea in Japan, they investigate renga, a genre of Japanese poetry that was a component of early Japanese tea gatherings. Other activities provide opportunities for students to examine the steps of the tea ceremony and their metaphorical meanings for life.

 

Lesson 3: Beauty and Purpose. Capturing Beauty: Ikebana Baskets, Japan

Summary and Objectives

Students investigate a number of aspects related to ikebana baskets—the uses and meanings of bamboo, construction methodologies, and the elevated status given basket makers in Japan. This lesson introduces students to the important concept of beauty and purpose—that is, that the humblest of objects may be embellished and enhanced in ways that elevate everyday work and imbue it with special significance and value. Activities stress research, discussion, writing, and artmaking. Students will

  • Explore the uses of bamboo by finding bamboo items in their own surroundings.
  • Create their own basket after they study some of the formal principles of ikebana design.
  • Express their understanding of the art of ikebana flower arrangement through painting, writing, and poetry writing.

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