Best Japanese High Schools

Thu, 25 Jul 2019 Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas How Can Teachers Develop the Productive Skills of Japanese Junior High School Students Change is coming to the way that English is taught in Japanese public schools. The changes to the curriculum by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) increase the teaching of English at all levels of schooling. The goal of this change is, in the words of Ikuko Tsuboya-Newel, founder and chair of Tokyo International School, "The government has decided that beginning in 2020 all high school graduates must achieve a level of English equivalent to B1" ("Why do Japanese have trouble learning English?", The Japan Times, October 29, 2017). To achieve that goal, high school entrance exams are expected to include more...  [Read more]

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 Etienne Van Rooyen TEFL Information Alumni Experiences The Three Main Types of High Schools in Japan There are three types of senior high schools in Japan. Each senior high school (grades 10, 11, and 12) has a different purpose and students attend it. Understanding this helps us learn how English language learning in Japan is differently yet similars each school. With this knowledge, as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) you can adapt your lessons plans, materials and style to fit your school/s. Table of Contents Overview of School Types Academic Schools Vocational Schools Correspondence Schools Academic High Schools Elite Academic High Schools General Acadmic High Schools How do elite and general academic schools approach English learning? Vocational Schools...  [Read more]

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 Asia Ridley TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Contributing to the Classroom as an ALT in Japan English education in Japan has been prominent for decades and starts in elementary schools. It is in high demand as the relationship between the U.S. and Japan as well as the abundant amount of tourism. Last year straight after graduating from university in the United States, I moved to Japan and began teaching English. I was fortunate to pass the interviews and become part of the Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme {JET}. Being an assistant language teacher {ALT} in the Japanese education system versus a conversation school has its differences. Therefore I will be diving into how one can contribute to the classroom as an ALT. Table of Contents Japanese Elementary...  [Read more]

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences How Discipline Affects Motivation In and Out of Japanese Classrooms I work in two schools. I am an assistant language teacher at one commercial (low-level English) high school, and an integrated (high-level English) academic junior high and high school. I have had experiences with different kinds of students, Japanese-English teachers, and classroom atmospheres. In Japan, students take an entrance exam to get into high school. If they scored low on the entrance exam, then they are placed in the lowest ranking class. Each school has a certain number of classrooms for each grade. Both of my high schools have six classes total for each grade. There are usually around forty to forty-two students in each class as well. Teaching forty...  [Read more]

Mon, 13 May 2019 Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Common Challenges in English for Japanese Native Speakers If you ever find yourself driving in French Canada, you will be stopped by stop signs that say 'arrêt', which is stopped in French. Almost all drivers in North America would know that this means stop because it's the same octagon red stop sign. In Japan it's very different, stop signs are triangular with Japanese script on them but, beneath the Japanese, you can find English subtitles which read 'stop'. In fact, if you travel anywhere in Japan, the majority of signs and announcements related to travel are offered in Japanese and English. English has been taught in Japanese schools since the American occupation after World War Two. However, according to an EF English...  [Read more]

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences The Most Common Obstacles for Japanese Learners of English Formal English education first took root in Japan with the creation of the first English schools in 1865 and has since steamrolled into an aggressive effort by the government to produce an English-proficient population. The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program (JET) was established to introduce native speakers into English classrooms, and English instruction continues to become mandatory for increasingly younger students in primary schools. Despite these efforts, an English Proficiency Index conducted by the organization English First gave Japan a "low proficiency" score, with the island country lagging not just the multicultural countries of Singapore and Malaysia but...  [Read more]

Fri, 03 Jul 2020 Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences The Cultural and Institutional Obstacles that Japanese Students of English Need to Overcome Many challenges come with teaching English in Japan that is unique and not innately obvious to some people. In addition to the more universal challenges of learning a new language, there are inherent cultural obstacles that English learners must overcome in Japan as well as several problems with the current course of study that is being taught. However, English teachers should do their best to work within the limits of the system to foster an interest and passion for language that lives on outside the classroom and beyond the school years of learners. Table of Contents Vastly different language system The history of Japanese isolation...  [Read more]

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 Elizaveta Pachina TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas Alumna Experience: ✅How My Teaching Skills Improved Throughout The Teaching Career For the past four years, I have worked in Japan as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) of English. Before this, I had limited experience operating in a conventional classroom, teaching young learners. I trained adults who were self-motivated and designed curricula for vocation institutions. Now, outside of my expertise, here I am teaching at a junior high school – my base school and an elementary school. Table of Contents My Role as an Assistant Language Teacher of English Students' Motivation Classroom Culture Are you ready to teach English abroad or online? Related Articles: Check out what our course grads...  [Read more]

Mon, 25 May 2020 Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas What are The Challenges for English Learners in Japan? I have taught in a Japanese high school for the past four years as an assistant language teacher, which gives me a particular insight into the problems and advantages of EFL in that area. This will naturally require some generalizations. Individuals have very different problems from one another, but broader shared issues do crop up. Table of Contents My experience Japanese average Gap between two languages Japanese culture can also make teaching difficult Another aspect of the culture that can make things difficult is the island mentality of Japan Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course today! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification...  [Read more]

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Systematic Problems for Learners of English in Japan Next year, Japan will host the thirty-second Olympiad in the capital city of Tokyo. To correspond with the timing of the 2020 Olympics, Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (hereafter MEXT) has laid out a plan for the reform of English education to meet the future needs of Japanese students in a globalized world. However, this plan presents several challenges for current and future learners of English in the Japanese educational system. Table of Contents Education System Modernization Demand in English-Speaking Professional Teachers JET Program Peculiarities International Examination for Japanese English Learners Do you want to teach English...  [Read more]

How do I get a job teaching English in Japan? Japan has been a popular destination amongst English language teachers for many years due to its widespread job opportunities, good salaries and fascinating culture. Whilst there are other countries in the region where the cost of living may be lower and the wages a little higher, nowhere provides such an incredible mix of modern development and ancient traditions as you will find in this extraordinary country. If you are looking for excitement and adventure, look no further than Japan. What are the requirements for teaching English in Japan? In order to work legally you will need to be eligible for a work visa. The good news is the criteria is not as tough as many other countries as you simply need to possess a degree in any subject. The...  [Read more]

The Best Teaching Ideas for TEFL Teachers What Measures Should be Taken if Students Misbehave? Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas The problem of students behavior is common to every classroom. Our TEFL graduate shares how to correct students in a right way. What are The Best Speaking Activities for Mixed-Ability Classrooms? Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas In this article, our TEFL graduate shares their ideas on activities for mixed-ability classrooms. "Has the Cat Got Your Tongue?": Teaching Slang and Idioms Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Teaching slang and idioms can be difficult but rather important. Our TEFL graduate explains the importance of this language point. Same, but Different: The Differences Between Teaching High-School and University Students ...  [Read more]

How do I get a job teaching English in Japan? To secure a position teaching English in Japan, a bachelor's degree and a TEFL certification with at least 120 hours are essential for obtaining a work visa. However, in certain circumstances, such as having a working holiday visa, student visa, spouse visa, or specific Japanese visas, teaching opportunities may still be accessible even without a degree. Japan remains a prime choice for English educators, not only for its attractive salary packages but also for its unique blend of cutting-edge progress and rich historical traditions. If a blend of professional growth and cultural exploration is what you are after, Japan stands out as an ideal destination. Table of Contents What are the requirements for teaching English in Japan? What kind...  [Read more]

Mon, 15 Oct 2018 Laura Payne Destinations TEFL Information The Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program: All You Need to Know and How to Apply The Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program is not the only means to teach English in Japan, but it is one of the most popular programs out there both for aspiring teachers and those who wish to pursue other fields. I first joined this program a little over a year ago. In the short time since then, I've gained incredibly valuable experiences through my work as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT). Table of Contents The History of JET Duties of an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) How to Apply for the JET Program Remuneration and Living Rewards of JET Common Challenges for ALTs The JET Community Listen to this blog post What are you waiting...  [Read more]

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Teaching in Japan: Problems of Local Learners In this essay I will be discussing the problems for young Japanese learners of English, and what problems Japanese learners often encounter as well as explaining some of the reasons why teachers can run into problems while teaching in Japan. I will be referring to the book "The Smart Guide to Teaching English in Japan' by Charlie Moritz and Martin Bragalone, as well as drawing from my knowledge and experiences of studying and volunteering in Japan. Japan can be a challenging but rewarding country to work in, despite stereotypes of Japanese people being polite and studious so it is important to consider that reality can be different when teaching in Japan. Table of Contents Eikaiwa...  [Read more]

The World Of TEFL and TESOL Explained Productive and Receptive Skills in the EFL Classroom - Writing Skills Federico Riva TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas What are some of the considerations needed for students to complete a writing lesson? Here we outline some of the types of activity you can produce and major issues to be aware of. Course Books and Materials: Use of the Wipe Board Federico Riva TEFL Information The wipeboard in all its' forms is a ubiquitous tool in the classroom. What should we think abour during our lesson planning and delivery, in terms of the material to be presented on the wipeboard? Course Books and Materials: Use of Visual Aids Federico Riva TEFL Information Teaching Ideas In this blog post, we will consider some examples...  [Read more]

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Why do Japanese Learners Face Difficulties when Studying English? English is causing many problems in Asian countries which can be seen just by the high demand for English teachers - including ESL teachers. One of the countries is Japan, a country with a good economy and a society well known for their kindness and politeness, but unfortunately also for the low number of English speakers. There are many reasons why English is likely to pose problems in Japan but there are many possibilities to improve the English lessons to offer lessons that help Japanese students to achieve a higher English level. Table of Contents 1. English is only written during lessons (Student Talk time is too low) 2. Students are not asked to express their...  [Read more]

What do TEFL teachers wear? Attire expectations vary widely based on the school's policies: Pro Tip: To avoid confusion, inquire about the dress code during the job interview. As a rule of thumb, it is wise to err on the side of professionalism on your first day, adjusting as you gauge the school's culture. Table of Contents What should I wear for a TEFL job interview? What about tattoos and piercings? What about facial hair? Which countries have specific expectations when it comes to appearance? What should I wear for a TEFL job interview? When preparing for a TEFL job interview, attire plays a pivotal role in making a strong first impression: In essence, prioritize a professional appearance throughout the TEFL job application and interview process to boost your prospects. Also read:...  [Read more]

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Teaching English Pronunciation to Students from Japan In my experience teaching elementary and junior high school level English in Japan, several different pronunciation problems appear frequently. The Japanese phonemic inventory is smaller than English's phonemic inventory, and the sounds present in each language differ from each other quite dramatically. Because of this, it can be difficult for native Japanese speakers to learn and master English pronunciation, but there are a few teaching techniques that can help students overcome this difficulty. Table of Contents Consonants Challenge Non-Existent Sounds in the Native Language Vowel Challenge 3 Methods to Work on Problems 1. Visual Representation 2. IPA Phonetics 3. Pronunciation...  [Read more]

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Problems for the English Language Learner in Japan Japan is well known for its unique culture, and history. As an island nation, it was isolated from the rest of the world until the mid-19th century when the country had to open itself to trade with western powers of the time. It was then when the English language made its way into the Japanese educational system. English spread quite rapidly, as the government saw the new language a way to catch up with the west. And, in 1873 English became the language of instruction in universities. However, due to various political reasons including the establishment of a standardized Japanese language system the urge to learn English had declined. Today in modern Japan, English is widely...  [Read more]

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences The Problems That Japanese Elementary Schoolers Face Studying English In the wake of the upcoming 2020 Olympics in Japan, there has been an increase in elementary school level English classes. As an assistant language teacher half into my fourth year, I have had the rare chance to work the entirety of my time in one elementary school where I have had many great memories. However, being present every day I began to notice that some students were struggling or in some cases, not even trying when it came to English class. Talking with my peers and colleagues from other elementary schools as well as my own, there are some common problems that many students seem to experience in an English class. These problems include learning in a...  [Read more]

Tue, 30 Apr 2019 Mark Crocker Alumni Experiences From Student to Teacher - My Language Journey It was the last day of Japanese class and my teacher's last day of teaching at our school. We were all standing up getting ready to bow him one last time. It was dead quiet but I could still hear sniffles around me and felt the sadness of the moment. I never thought I would care so much about a teacher leaving. To this day, the words and wisdom my Japanese teacher taught me still ring in my head. Flash forward to a few years ago, I went to Japan for the first time, after a hiatus of not studying Japanese, but amazingly I still had all the skills my teacher had taught me in high school. How did this person have such an impact on me? The answer I have come to realize is that because he truly...  [Read more]

The Best Teaching Ideas for TEFL Teachers 6 Steps for Effective Troubleshooting in a TEFL Classroom Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares their thoughts on how to do troubleshooting effectively in a TEFL classroom. 3 Ways To Motivate Students In The Classroom Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares their thoughts on how to motivate students in the classroom. Guide on What You Need to Know about Grammar Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares their thoughts on grammar and what is important to consider when teaching it. ESA Lesson Planning Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares their...  [Read more]

Agency Legit TEFL Check out tefl tesol about Agency Legit TEFL and apply today to be certified to teach English abroad. You could also be interested in: This is how our TEFL graduates feel they have gained from their course, and how they plan to put into action what they learned: Check out ITTT's Blog Posts A.C. - Japan said: Course Experience I enrolled at the 140 hour DVD course with tutor support. I took this course because I wanted to qualify to teach in schools and I wanted to make a change in my career. The japanese schools have required non-native english speakers to obtain training certificates before they are hired. The teachers must meet their high standards of education. I made sure that I chose the best tesol teacher training school and that is ITTT. I enjoyed every lesson...  [Read more]

How to teach English in Asia? If you are looking for the widest choice of English language teaching jobs, look no further than Asia. Across the continent you will find countless opportunities in a wide range of fascinating countries, although the requirements do vary from one to the next. Some countries are only open to native English speakers and others will require a university degree, however, there are still plenty of jobs out there for anyone with a TEFL certification. Table of Contents How do I get a job teaching English in South Korea? What are the requirements for teaching English in South Korea? What Kind of school will I work in teaching English in South Korea? What is the best way to apply for jobs teaching English in South Korea? How do I get a job teaching English in...  [Read more]

What do TEFL teachers wear? When it comes to dress there is no correct answer as many schools have their own dress policy. In some schools men will be required to wear a suit and tie and women a pantsuit or skirt and dress shirt/jacket. Others will allow casual clothes such as a t-shirt and jeans, although most will fall somewhere in between these two extremes. The best advice is to ask the appropriate questions during the interview process to ensure you know what is expected. Otherwise you should lean towards the professional side of things for your first day and then you can adjust your dress accordingly. What should I wear for a TEFL job interview? As a general rule you should approach a TEFL interview in the same way as any other job interview you might have in your home country,...  [Read more]

How to teach English in Asia? If you are looking for the widest choice of English language teaching jobs, look no further than Asia. Across the continent you will find countless opportunities in a wide range of fascinating countries, although the requirements do vary from one to the next. Some countries are only open to native English speakers and others will require a university degree, however, there are still plenty of jobs out there for anyone with a TEFL certification. How do I get a job teaching English in South Korea? Teaching English in South Korea has become increasingly popular over the last decade and it is no secret that the country offers some of the best salaries for foreign teachers to be found anywhere in the world. English teachers in Korea can expect to earn between...  [Read more]

Our ITTT TEFL and TESOL Alumni Stories Why I Wanted to Complete a TEFL Course Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences This blog post was written by out TEFL alumna who shares their story and experience of taking a TEFL course online with ITTT. Hybrid Classrooms: The Way Towards The Future Zainab Sadriwala Alumni Experiences In this blog post, we discuss some of these useful methods and learn how we can incorporate them into our schools. This new model, merging virtual and physical teaching, will be termed under the umbrella of ‘hybrid classrooms’. A Day in the Life of an EPIK Teacher in South Korea Brittany Varano Destinations Alumni Experiences For those thinking of teaching English in South Korea, the EPIK program offers one of the best job opportunities in Asia....  [Read more]

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Common Pronunciation Mistakes of Japanese Students This piece will discuss the difficulties faced by Japanese learners of English regarding English pronunciation and suggest methods to help learners in different age groups overcome them. It posits that most difficulties stem from the differences in phonology between the English alphabet and the Japanese kana system. Table of Contents Differences in the Alphabetic Systems Ways to Overcome Difficulties Working with Adults How to Approach Young Students Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Niall M. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of...  [Read more]

Teach Young Learners EFL in Vietnam (3) Date posted:2015-05-27 | Writer: Fisher's SuperKids | Email: [email protected] If you are looking for a satisfying EFL teaching experience that goes beyond the compensation, read on! Fisher’s SuperKids is the most established and reputable English center in Danang with over 1,000 students between 4-17 years old. Leaning, having fun, growing, care, respect and love are what we thrive to bring to this special environment. These are factors that make us different from the rest of schools in Vietnam as well.   Small class size, well-equipped classrooms, motivated students and fun outside of work are what makes teachers enjoy teaching here. You will find yourself just 10 minutes from one of the best beaches in the world and close access to...  [Read more]