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Why Japanese Students Struggle with Communicating in English - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
During my stay in Japan, Japanese people often told me how they can't communicate in English despite studying the language for six or more years in school. In Japan, students in junior and senior high learn English grammar and vocabulary in compulsory formal English classes. English is also taught in elementary school as foreign language activities. Yet despite spending several hours in English classes, many Japanese people graduate high school with poor English communication skills.
Education system
Class culture
Learning goals
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Rachel M. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or... [Read more]
Typical Challenges for Japanese Native Speakers in ESL - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Daisy C. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
Grammar
Pronunciation
Japanese schools
Japanese culture
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One problem facing many Japanese students learning English is differentiating between countable and uncountable nouns. In the Japanese language, the same word is often used for 'much' and 'many'. In English, 'much' is used to describe countable nouns, and 'many' is used to describe uncountable nouns.
A problem facing many EFL learners, especially Japanese learners, is idioms. The English language has thousands of idioms, which are used in everyday life. These are... [Read more]
Best practices for teaching English in a Japanese classroom - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
1. Understanding the Japanese Classroom Environment
2. Effective Teaching Strategies for English Language Learners
3. Cultural Sensitivity and Adaptability in Teaching
4. Building Strong Relationships with Students and Colleagues
Teaching English in a Japanese classroom can be a rewarding and enriching experience for educators looking to make a positive impact on students' lives. By understanding the unique cultural context and educational practices in Japan, teachers can create a supportive and engaging learning environment for English language learners. In this guide, we will explore the best practices for teaching English in a Japanese classroom, including effective teaching strategies, cultural sensitivity, and tips for building strong relationships with students and colleagues.
Before... [Read more]
How Discipline Affects Motivation In and Out of Japanese Classrooms - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
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 plus students in a crowded classroom is difficult. And unlike many stereotypes of... [Read more]
Several Problems Japanese Students Face When Learning English and Ways to Solve Them - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Japan is a developed country, with well above 126 million inhabitants, that during the past decade has been gaining more and more popularity as a destination for travelers and as a residence for people from all kinds of countries. Yet its inhabitants often seem to struggle with gaining English language proficiency. In this essay, I'll try to resolve the question, which problems students in Japan typically encounter when attempting to learn English.
Grammar
Phonology
Culture
Methodology
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Philipp S. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
The first aspect of this issue... [Read more]
Quantifiers in English - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ A Lot Of, A Few, A Little, A Bit…
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What are quantifiers? We use quantifiers (A Lot Of, A Few, A Little, A Bit…) when we want to give information about the number of something: how much or how many. Let's take a look at it below.
Quantifiers form a sub-category under determiners. They are adjectives or phrases that answer two possible questions:
1. How many?
2. and How much?
For example: a few, a little, much, many, most, some, any, enough, etc., are quantifiers.
Quantifiers that describe quantity include a little, none, a few, etc. Some of these are used only with:
Countable nouns – These are the nouns that answer the question "How many?"
For example: a few, a number of, several, etc.
Uncountable nouns –... [Read more]
The 2 Pronunciation Problems ESL Students Suffer From in Japan - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
There are several pronunciation problems that students of English will face in Japan; however, I will focus on two.
1. Differences in the phonetic systems of two languages
2. Lack of exposure to authentic English resources
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This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Brandie K. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT.
The first of these problems they face is the fact that Japanese doesn't have some of the same sounds in its' alphabet as English does. For example, Japanese does not have a hard R sound; instead, it has a sound that is a mix of R and L. So, when students from Japan go to say rice, for many... [Read more]
Eating Habits and Cuisine in Japan - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ Teach English Abroad
SOURCE: hungryhouse . co . uk
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Problems Japan Faces in Developing English as a Second Language - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
There are several challenges Japan faces when it comes to learning English as a second language. Japanese culture is a bubble. Everything, including their ad signs, TV, games, government, studies, work and even the internet is filled with one language; Japanese. In a world of globalization, where your goods and services can come from literally any part of the globe. Japan is one of the few remaining homogenous cultures where English is still seen as an optional language. As the global economy becomes more global, the English language will likely become less optional, but essential. In addition to the cultural issues, Japan's English curriculum in the school is largely unchanged from the '60s according to my Japanese cousins and uncles still living in... [Read more]
Best TEFL course in Japan - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Looking to kickstart your teaching career in Japan? Look no further than ITTT's top-rated TEFL course! With a strong focus on practical training and real-world experience, our program equips you with the skills and confidence needed to excel in the competitive Japanese job market. Whether you're a seasoned educator or a fresh graduate, our comprehensive course will provide you with the tools and knowledge to succeed in the classroom. Join us today and take the first step towards an exciting and rewarding career in Japan!
1. Why Choose ITTT's TEFL Course?
2. The Benefits of Teaching English in Japan
3. Our Comprehensive Curriculum
4. How to Get Started with ITTT
ITTT is a leading provider of TEFL and TESOL training, with years of experience in preparing teachers for success around the... [Read more]
Contributing to the Classroom as an ALT in Japan - TEFL Blog
Asia Ridley
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences
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.
Japanese Elementary School
Collaborating with your Homeroom Teacher
Outside of the classroom
Conclusion
Are you... [Read more]
Should I consider teaching English in a country where I do not speak the language? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
1. Benefits of Teaching English in a Country Where You Do Not Speak the Language
2. Challenges of Teaching English in a Country Where You Do Not Speak the Language
Teaching English in a country where you do not speak the language can be a rewarding and enriching experience. It allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture, learn a new language, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges that your students face when learning English as a foreign language. Additionally, it can help you develop your communication skills, adaptability, and cultural awareness.
Challenges of Teaching English in a Country Where You Do Not Speak the Language
While teaching English in a country where you do not speak the language can be a valuable experience, it also comes with its... [Read more]
Tefl reviews - Tesol Tefl Reviews Video Testimonial Leslie - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
Leslie is a Canadian English teacher at a junior high school in the Japanese countryside. In this TESOL review, Leslie tells us she is looking to open her own English language day care centre at her home and with this in mind she took the 120-hour certificate course with ITTT as well as the 50-hour young learners course to bring her qualifications up to date. Hopefully for Leslie this will be the first step on a rewarding career as the owner of a successful English language school in Japan.
Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can... [Read more]
Strategies to Encourage Students to Speak in Class - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
In the four skills, speaking is usually the poorest for the students learning English as L2. This results from lack of speaking practice, thus, students tend to be reluctantly speaking English in class as well as after class. It is important for teachers to encourage and motivate them to speak English, especially in class. Based on some knowledge gained through this course and my experience as a teacher, I have tried to build a language speaking environment, adopt many ways and encourage students to open their mouths to speak and they made a lot of progress in speaking English. The ideas below are mostly for pre-intermediate students and as for young learners, one can adopt different methods to make them speak.
Environment is essential
Encouragement is... [Read more]
What is the JET Program for teaching English in Japan? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program (JET) is a prestigious initiative, established by the Japanese government more than 30 years ago, aimed at enhancing English language proficiency among Japanese students. Annually, the program recruits approximately 5,000 international participants, placing them in schools across Japan.
Beyond its educational goals, JET uniquely prioritizes fostering cultural ties between participants and the Japanese community. Given the competitive salary and array of additional benefits, securing a spot in the JET Program is highly sought-after, making the application process quite competitive.
What are the requirements for the JET Program?
What teaching positions are available through the JET Program?
What are the benefits of the JET Program?
The Japan... [Read more]
Travelers Guide to Indonesia - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ Teach English Abroad
SOURCE: Divergent Travelers
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How To Encourage Your Students to Overcome Stress and Speak Out in English - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Teaching Ideas
Expressing ourselves in a language that it is not our native language could be for most students frustrating and intimidating, especially when they are in a room full of people and there is a fear to be judged by peers and their teacher who is carefully listening to them; these feelings are the ones that stress out and hold down students, preventing them from participating in class, and as a consequence they do not practice and learn English efficiently. There could be many reasons for students to stress in the classroom, some students may simply be shy, some may be afraid to make mistakes and others may just lack English knowledge and vocabulary to express their ideas.
Ways to relief stressful situations
1. Motivate
2. Build self-esteem
3. Create the... [Read more]
Summer Holiday Board Game - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
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This is a fun conversation board game to speak about summer holidays with your ESL students.
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My Favorites Board Game - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
This board game is a great way to get to know each other a little bit more and have fun at the same time.
Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!
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Can you teach English in Thailand without speaking Thai? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Absolutely, teaching English in Thailand doesn't necessitate fluency in Thai. In fact, most language schools in Thailand prefer that ESL instructors use only English in the classroom to promote full immersion, regardless of their Thai language proficiency.
Is there a need for English teachers in Thailand?
What are the requirements for teaching English in Thailand?
Thailand has seen a surge in demand for English teachers, driven by its expanding economy and an increasing eagerness among its population to master the language. As English education gains prominence, those with TEFL certifications generally find more lucrative opportunities. The shift towards long-term contracts has led schools to prioritize instructors willing to commit for extended periods, rather than brief stints. With... [Read more]
Learning English in Early Childhood - TEFL Blog
Elizaveta Pachina
Alumni Experiences
In the past, some scientists thought young learners do not learn as fast as adults. However today even parents are aware of the importance of starting learning a second language early.
Advantages of Early Start
Consider the Mix of Abilities
Choice of Activities
Nursery Rhymes
Flashcards
GamesThe Main Problems Young English Learners Face In China
Stories
Are you ready to teach English to younger children?
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Listen to this blog post:
This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Safak İ.
When people start learning at early ages of their life, they increase the probability of gaining better language skills and favorable attitudes to other languages and cultures. Moreover, it will be possible for them to acquire native... [Read more]
5 Important Things You Should Know About Second Language Acquisition - TEFL Blog
Federico Riva
TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas
In educational literature, the term Second Language Acquisition (SLA) is defined in various ways, influenced by factors such as socio-cultural aspects, the specific language being learned (e.g., second, third, or fourth language), and whether the learning occurs solely in a classroom.
Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis
Monitor Hypothesis
Natural Order Hypothesis
Input Hypothesis
Affective Filter Hypothesis
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Let's examine SLA theory through the lens of Stephen Krashen's five hypotheses:
Krashen proposes two mechanisms for language development. The first is an unconscious process akin to absorbing... [Read more]
Tefl reviews - Productive Receptive Skills/why Speak - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
So, we'll focus first of all on a speaking skills lesson and perhaps a starting point for this would be to ask a question which is: Why do we speak to each other? The reason that it's important to ask ourselves this question is that whatever answers there are to this should be present in our lessons. So, why do we speak to each other? Well, there are a multitude of answers to that but when you boil them all down to their essence, they probably actually come down to one or two things. We communicate to each other by speaking because of either a need. We need something. We want something or a desire to achieve something.
Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into... [Read more]
The Most Common Problems Students in Japan Face When Learning English - TEFL Blog
Linda Dunsmore
Destinations Teaching Ideas
Japan is a country facing rapid change. Due to an aging population and a scarcity of workers, Japan is opening its borders to foreigners, many of whom speak English. This, along with the upcoming Tokyo Olympics, has led to an increase in demand for English teachers. I currently work in Japan, and have had the experience of teaching English to high school Japanese students for the past year. Over the course of this year, I've learned of many problems that students in Japan face when learning English. Of those, the top three problems for students in Japan are pronunciation, shyness, and large class sizes.
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Differences in Phonology
Students' Reluctance to Speak
Class Size in Japanese Schools
Are you ready to teach English... [Read more]
How will I make friends while teaching English abroad? - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ TEFL FAQs
Making friends while teaching English abroad is a common concern for many. Yet, once settled into their new surroundings, most teachers find forming connections easier than anticipated. In many teaching destinations, you are likely not the only foreign instructor, providing immediate camaraderie with peers. Moreover, the local community often embraces teachers warmly, eager to share their culture and help newcomers acclimate. Engaging with both fellow teachers and locals presents plenty of opportunities to build lasting friendships.
Will I make friends with work colleagues when teaching English abroad?
Will I make friends with the local people?
How can I find like minded people in the local area?
Can I get involved in local sports groups?
Where do expats tend to hangout?
Will... [Read more]
Go Fishing ESL Icebreaker Printable - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT
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This is an easy classroom activity to encourage your ESL students to speak in English. All you have to do is cut out these fish with the questions to play.
To play, simply print out the sheet, cut out the fish and laminate them to make them more durable. If you want to be really creative, you can create a pond or a fishing area in your classroom where your students can “go fish.”
Another great idea would be to have the fish in a box or container and let students draw them out one at a time.
To make fishing rods, all you need is string, magnets, and dowel rods. Be sure to also attach some magnets on each fish and your students can start fishing!
Register now & get certified to teach english... [Read more]
Best ESL learning centers in Surabaya - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Surabaya, a vibrant city in Indonesia, is home to a variety of ESL learning centers that cater to individuals looking to enhance their English language skills. Whether you are a student, a professional, or simply someone interested in improving your English proficiency, Surabaya has a range of options to choose from. In this guide, we will highlight some of the best ESL learning centers in Surabaya, providing you with valuable information to help you make an informed decision.
When it comes to learning a new language, choosing the right learning center is crucial. A good ESL learning center can provide you with the necessary tools, resources, and support to help you achieve your language learning goals. Whether you are a beginner looking to build a strong foundation or an advanced learner... [Read more]
Top 5 Tips for Making Friends While Teaching English Abroad - TEFL Blog
Mark Crocker
TEFL Information
As the very essence of teaching English abroad involves leaving behind your friends and family and the social life you have been used to, it is inevitable that many newly qualified teachers have some concerns about making new friends once they head overseas. However, just like the many thousands of teachers who have gone before you, you will find that making the decision to leave home is actually the hard part and everything else will soon fall into place. To help set your mind at ease, we have put together 5 top tips for making new friends while teaching English abroad.
1. Get to Know Your New Colleagues
2. Meet-Up with Like Minded People
3. Join a Local Sports Group
4. Find out Where the Expats Hangout
5. Learn the Local Language
Listen to this blog post... [Read more]
Accent reduction classes in Madison WI - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ITTT TEFL & TESOL
Are you looking to improve your communication skills and speak with clarity and confidence? Accent reduction classes in Madison, WI, offered by ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training) are designed to help you achieve just that. Whether you are a non-native English speaker looking to neutralize your accent or a native speaker aiming to refine your pronunciation, our expert instructors can assist you in achieving your goals.
Our comprehensive accent reduction classes focus on various aspects of speech, including pronunciation, intonation, stress, and rhythm. Through personalized instruction and tailored exercises, you will learn techniques to modify your accent and speak English more effectively. By honing your pronunciation skills, you can enhance your overall communication abilities... [Read more]
Travel Tips for Lithuania - ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ Teach English Abroad
SOURCE: foursquare . com/v/vilnius/4d137c33f898b1f7e97ce081
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