Super Science High School: 
Zeze High School Project

Japan’s Ministry of Education selected Zeze High School in Michigan’s sister-state of Shiga Prefecture, as a participant in its national Super Science High School Project (SSH). The project supports secondary science and math education across Japan to promote future science and technology professionals.

During each summer of this multi-year grant initiative, sixteen Zeze High School students, accompanied by three teachers, extend their environmental studies to the mid-Michigan area for two weeks. Students attend twenty hours of English language activities at the English Language Center (ELC), Michigan State University, and participate in field trips around Michigan, integrating science content and hands-on experiences. Since the Japanese semester starts April 1 and ends in February, the students’ visit to Michigan occurs during the summer vacation of their junior year.

Science-based activities are specifically designed for this group of eleventh grade students. The ELC sessions focus on lowering students’ language learning anxiety, encouraging oral communication in English, and supporting speaking and listening skills through content-rich science lab activities. Through this English immersion program students increase their understanding of global (science) standards, strengthen language skills, and develop presentation techniques.

Program activities include tours and hands-on activities in science laboratories of:

1.  Michigan Department of Environmental Quality
2.  Annis Water Resources Institute, Grand Valley State University
3.  Water Research Institute, Michigan State University
4.  Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory, University of Michigan
5.  Kellogg Biological Station, Michigan State University
6.  National Food Safety and Toxicology Laboratory, Michigan State University

For further information or applications to become a host family, contact Marilyn Schlief.