Setting the Stage
Setting the Stage
Point out that the United States is often described as a “disposable” society. Ask students: What do you think is meant by that? What do we lose or miss out on when we only value things that are new or modern?
Key Idea
In our throwaway society, we often overlook the value of preserving things that may be old or run-down, even when they represent cultural practices that are vital to some people. Sometimes it takes a fresh view to appreciate the beauty and value embedded in labor-intensive, traditional craftsmanship.
Background
The film chronicles the 1970s restoration of a 250-year-old Japanese farmhouse, or minka, by American journalist John Roderick and Japanese architect and art collector Yoshihiro Takishita. After purchasing the old building, the men relocated it and—with the help of traditional builders and artisans—turned it into the beautiful home they shared for over 40 years.
Meaning “people’s house” in Japanese, minka is a form of traditional Japanese house that was once common throughout Japan. Typically built of wood, paper, and thatch—without nails or concrete foundations—minkas were made with local materials and building techniques, and were perfectly suited to the local climate. Unfortunately, many of these masterpieces of traditional craftsmanship are being demolished because they do not fit a modern lifestyle (for example, they often have no plumbing or heat). The skills and materials needed to restore them are disappearing.
Connections to National Standards
Common Core English Language Arts. SL.11-12.1.c. Propel conversations by posing and responding to questions that probe reasoning and evidence; ensure a hearing for a full range of positions on a topic or issue; clarify, verify, or challenge ideas and conclusions; and promote divergent and creative perspectives.
College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Framework for Social Studies. D2.Geo.4.9-12. Analyze relationships and interactions within and between human and physical systems to explain reciprocal influences that occur among them.
Next Generation Science Standards. HS-LS2-7. Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
Setting the Stage
Point out that the United States is often described as a “disposable” society. Ask students: What do you think is meant by that? What do we lose or miss out on when we only value things that are new or modern?
Engaging with the Story
Explain that students will watch a film about two men who work to preserve an ancient Japanese farmhouse, or minka, for their living quarters. The film depicts the value of preserving something old and of honoring cultural traditions.
You might also point out that the film is a love story in both obvious and not so obvious ways, and invite students to notice that aspect of the film as well.
Delving Deeper
After viewing the film, lead a discussion with such questions as:
Reflecting and Projecting
Give students one of the following reflective writing prompts to demonstrate their understanding of the story:
Resources
Julia Rocchi, “Six Practical Reasons to Save Old Buildings.” National Trust for Historic Preservation, November 10, 2015.
John Roderick, Minka: My Farmhouse in Japan (New York: Princeton Architectural Press, 2007).
Materials
Preparation
These five shorts films follows five Native American communities who are restoring their traditional land management practices.