Chapter 27, Student Web Activities, Glencoe World Geography, Glencoe, 2003

Chapter 27: The Cultural Geography of East Asia
"East Asian Customs"

Introduction
Ancient religions and philosophies shaped the interwoven yet distinct cultures and traditions of East Asia's countries. Today, the people of East Asia maintain many customs that reflect their ancient histories. In this activity you will learn more about the cultures of China, Japan, and Korea.

Destination Title: AskAsia

Directions
Start at the Asia Society's AskAsia Web site.

Click on Teachers and then on Instructional Resources.
Under "Country and Regional Resources," click on China. Scroll down to "Readings" and click on Chinese Language: Myths and Facts. Explore the article, taking notes as you read.
Return to the "Instructional Resources" page and click on Japan. Click on Arranged Marriage, Extracurricular Activities (Club Activities), and High School Students in Japan. Take notes while reading the articles.
Return to the "Instructional Resources" page again and click on North and South Korea. Read and take notes on Birthdays and Korean Thought.

Using the information you have gathered from this site, answer the following questions.

1. What is China doing to promote literacy among its people? What is Pinyin?

2. How does the arranged marriage system work in Japan?

3. Explain the junior-senior relationship that occurs in after-school clubs in Japan and is reflected in other aspects of Japanese society.

4. What aspects of Korean history and society indicate that Koreans focus on their time and place on Earth?

5. Imagine that you will be hosting an exchange student from Japan at your school. Based on the information you have gathered about Japan, write a letter introducing yourself and your school. Then describe to your exchange student how life at your school might be different from the life he or she leads in Japan. Make sure to address academics, sports, and social life in your letter.