I have been given four VHS tapes on Korea. I believe one deals with Korean music and dance, and one deals with the language. After 2/21, I will start reviewing them, will give you the length of each tape, and if you are interested, you can borrow one or more, and make copies for your classroom.

I also want to improve my knowledge of Korea, specifically the Korean War. I know one teacher that told me that I could teach it in 3 minutes; I will spare you the explanation. I just know that there is more that should be said. However, I don't know what it is. I think that I will just add this to my list of things to do.

This is the first of four posts I will make relating to the tapes on Korea I was given. I will review them individually, because last time I attempted to write a very lengthy post, the computer froze, and all of you lost a good two pages on "Sake," it's history, the best of the best, and where to go locally to get it, sad.
Video #1:
Korea's Culture. This is a 15 minute film put out by the Korea National Tourism Corportaion. It would be perfect for the classroom because of its length. It would be wonderful as an introduction to the studey of Korea, and perfect for ELL stuidents. It covers a lot in a very short period of time. It begins with Korea's customs and culture, over 5,000 years of history, and continues to their reverence for elders and ancestors. The film covers a traditiional wedding, and costumes; architecture and construction; works of art, music, court music and musical instruments. It includes their love of storytelling; shows a Buddist Temple, and goes over their scientific inventions. Painting and calligraphy are covered, as well as sports they love such as archery, martial arts, kite flying, ganes abd dance. It is truly an enjoyable little tape. It is VHS. I would be happy to lend it to any of you who would enjoy having a copy.
Video #2, to follow.

There was a fascinating article in the LA Times (2/28-front page, page 1) that could be utilized for a lesson in economics or government: "One-Hour Commute to Another World." People are driving from downtown Seoul to the other side of the demilitarized zone to work in North Korea. Of course they have to leave all the appurtenances of life in the West and the 21st century at the border, and they are also not allowed to talk about their life south of the border. It is the boldest experiment in inter-Korean cooperation to date, and involves 500 South Koreans. They are working side by side with 6,000 North Koreans in a year-old industrial park just north of the DMZ. Print out a copy of this for yourself if you teach Econ. or Govt., I can think of several ways you could use it. Or contact me and I will send you a copy.
--This is Darlene Ockerman's posting, she just used Tracy's computer! So contact Darlene for info.[Edit by="tsprague on Mar 3, 3:57:03 PM"][/Edit]

Hi Folks,
Our friends at the Korean Cultural Center are offering a weeklong seminar this July 24-28. I'd seize on the opportunity. Mary Conner, author of one of the units in your binder, is the coordinator. In applying, please be sure to tell her you've worked with us and are participating at our recommendation. I'll post the sign-up info tomorrow.