Children at Schoo English for Todayl.pptx

English for Today

1. Children at School Tetsuko Kuroyanagi is a celebrated Japanese actress, television personality, and author, best known for her long-running talk show  Tetsuko's Room  and her bestselling memoir,  Totto- chan : The Little Girl at the Window . She is also recognized for her extensive philanthropic work as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador

2. Context of the Story " The New School " is the first chapter of Totto- chan : The Little Girl at the Window , a Japanese autobiographical memoir written by Tetsuko Kuroyanagi in 1981. The book narrates her childhood experiences during the World War II period in Japan.

3. Reason for the New School Totto- chan , the lively and curious little girl, was expelled from her first elementary school because her teachers found her too restless, talkative, and unconventional. They thought she disturbed the class, even though she was simply inquisitive and energetic.

4. Establishment of Tomoe Gakuen After being expelled, Totto- chan’s mother took her to a very unusual school called Tomoe Gakuen , founded by the progressive headmaster Sosaku Kobayashi . This school emphasized freedom, individuality, and creativity in education—completely different from the rigid, traditional Japanese schooling of that time

5. Significance of the New School The “New School” (Tomoe Gakuen ) became a place where Totto- chan thrived. Instead of punishment, her curiosity was encouraged. The school symbolized freedom in education , nurturing individuality, and respecting children’s uniqueness. The chapter sets the stage for the whole book, showing how an understanding and compassionate environment can transform a child’s life.

6. Historical Background: Japan in the 1940s was a militaristic society, and most schools were strict, emphasizing discipline and obedience. Tomoe Gakuen was a rare exception, following progressive educational philosophies inspired by Western liberal ideas