The Start of the Camp: A New Challenge and the Beginning of Friendships
Global Immersion Camp 2024 kicked off grandly amid the children’ mix of nervousness and excitement. On the first day, the “Get to Know Me” activity allowed participants to introduce themselves in English by exchanging name cards, bringing them closer to their group members. During the opening ceremony, they met new friends in a warm atmosphere, united in preparation for the challenges ahead. From the first day, the children embraced the slogan, “Don’t be afraid of making mistakes. Let’s try communicating in English!” and actively communicated in English.
Deepening Cultural Understanding and English Skills Through Activities
From the second day of the camp, various programs were carried out. During the “GIC Festival,” students-built confidence in their English communication skills through songs and games using simple English. In “Traveling Around the World,” they learned about the cultures of Myanmar, Colombia, Sri Lanka, Sierra Leone, and Indonesia, gaining valuable experiences in cross-cultural understanding. Additionally, in the “World Food Market,” the children practiced negotiating prices in English while shopping, improving their practical English skills.
On the third day, the “Learn about Lakes in Camp Leaders’ Countries” activity offered an opportunity to learn about environmental issues affecting lakes in different countries, encouraging the children to discuss what they could do to help. On the fourth day, they attended presentations on the theme of “lakes” during “Wonderland” and deepened their learning by creating posters afterward.
Growth on the Fifth Day and an Emotional Graduation Ceremony
The day before the graduation ceremony, the children participated in “Discover the Mystery,” solving riddles in English, showcasing teamwork and communication skills. In the afternoon, they performed in groups during the “Talent Show & SHOWBIZ,” sharing the fruits of their efforts with everyone. The final night’s emotional performances left a lasting memory for the children.
On the last day, during the “Graduation Ceremony and Saying Bye Bye,” the children confidently presented their growth in English and shared what they wanted to challenge themselves with after the GIC. Although parting was bittersweet, they graduated with newfound friendships and experiences.
Post-Camp Goals
The Global Immersion Camp 2024 served as a platform for growth and a starting point for new challenges for all participants. KUMON will continue to provide programs as part of its KUMON English Immersion Activities (KEIA) to nurture children’ ability to “connect with the world through English.” With the experiences gained from the GIC, the children will continue to grow with a global perspective.
Participant and Parent Comments
Participant
“My motivation toward KUMON English changed after GIC. I am still studying KUMON English, but now, when I read English, I wonder what it says and have become more interested in learning English actively. I’m happy because I’m enjoying learning KUMON English more than before.”
Parent
“I wanted my daughter to experience everyday life while conversing in English, which led me to encourage her to join the camp. The days spent with friends from different grades and regions, as well as with multinational camp leaders, allowed her to live in English and have experiences different from her usual life. The curriculum that incorporated different countries’ cultures and the camp content itself became an important experience for her. I believe the days spent expressing her opinions in words and giving presentations have greatly boosted her confidence.”