Japan Alt

Asia Ridley I’m Asia, originally from California, USA and currently living in Nagasaki, Japan. I’m working as an ALT [Assistant Language Teacher] through the JET program [Japanese Exchange and Teaching Programme]. I studied abroad in Japan two years ago and returned to make a career. I am also running a website to share my experiences, favorite places, and information about everything in Japan. It is a platform where I work on my crafts such as photography as well. Read my articles Contributing to the Classroom as an ALT in Japan | ITTT | TEFL Blog Asia Ridley TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Are you interested in teaching English in Japan? Working as an Assistant Language Teacher in a Japanese school is a great way to get move to Japan. This article gives an in-depth look...  [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]

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Personal Teaching Experience: Navigating a Changing Curriculum as a Co-teacher in Japanese Elementary Schools In Japan, elementary schools typically employ an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) to provide support to homeroom teachers during English classes. I have been working in such a capacity for the past two and a half years, first through an international program and currently as a direct-hire via my local city hall. Until recently, mandatory English classes at the elementary school level have been limited to the fifth and sixth grades, but new national requirements are being rolled out that will require mandatory English classes as early as third grade while doubling English classroom hours for the fifth and sixth grades....  [Read more]

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 Georgia Payne Destinations TEFL Information Alumni Experiences A Day in the Life of an ALT on the JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) Programme The unofficial motto of the JET Programme is 'every situation is different (ESID).' This is completely true, and every JET's day looks different depending on whether they work in a public or private school, whether they have co-JETs or are solo, their teaching partner's style, and the school's schedule. I teach in a private junior and senior high school in central Tokyo, where students are aged 12-18. The following is my own experience, but every ALT's (assistant language teacher) experience on the JET Programme is vastly different. Table of Contents Wake up, get ready for school and commute to school 6:30 - 7:50 Home room:...  [Read more]

Georgia Payne Georgia is a music and history teacher from Australia who has been teaching English in Japan for the past 1.5 years. She loves to travel and share her travel experiences and tips on her blog. Next year, she hopes to take her TEFL skills to Europe and take on some new challenges. Read my articles A Day in the Life of an ALT on the JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) Programme | ITTT | TEFL Blog Georgia Payne Destinations TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Are you interested in teaching English in Japan? ✅ Here's what a day in the life of an ALT on the JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) Programme looks like! Accommodation Options in Tokyo for English Teachers in Japan | ITTT | TEFL Blog Georgia Payne Destinations Alumni Experiences Are you looking to teach English...  [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, 30 May 2019 Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences The Many Sides of The Teaching Job in Japan What do you think of when I say the word "teacher"? When I think of this word, I think of the "teacher when I was a child. The person who talked and I listened. The person who gave me instructions and I followed. I think in today's environment this word has changed. What does the word "teacher" mean today? We'll look at what the roles of a teacher are in today's ESL world in Japan, where I've taught for over 14 years. Table of Contents Types of Teachers in Japan Responsibilities Are you ready to teach English all over the world? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post We use many synonyms for the term "teacher". In elementary schools, junior high schools, and high schools in Japan...  [Read more]

Etienne Van Rooyen My name is Etienne van Rooyen, and I live and work in Hachinohe City, Japan. I'm from the Gold Coast, Australia, and have lived in Japan for over two and a half years and going strong! I work on the JET Programme as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT), teaching at one high school (which is rare for those who have or are working for JET). I graduated with an undergraduate degree in "Langues and Linguistics" with Japanese language studies and English linguistics majors. Alongside teaching, I spend my time staying active with my newfound love of winter sports like skiing and ice hockey. I am also an avid videogame/movie fan, reader, cook and pianist. Read my articles The Three Main Types of High Schools in Japan | ITTT | TEFL Blog Etienne Van Rooyen TEFL Information...  [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]

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]

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]

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences My Experience as an Assistant Language Teacher in Japanese Elementary and Junior High Schools I am in my 3rd year of working in the countryside of Japan as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) in public elementary and junior high schools. An ALT's official job description is to be the assistant to a Japanese Teacher of Language (JTL). In my experience, especially in elementary schools, the ALT is not seen as an assistant but as "the English teacher" since the regular homeroom teacher has no training or experience with ESL. In most cases, the ALT has a degree in a field unrelated to teaching and has no qualifications. Table of Contents Japanese Education System ALT Training My Unexpected Discovery Language Course Peculiarities Do...  [Read more]

Shanique Hutchinson Shanique is from Jamaica and has been working as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) in the Mie prefecture in Japan since August 2018. She works at both the elementary and junior high school levels and enjoys traveling, learning foreign languages, reading and playing the piano. Read my articles Being a Cultural Ambassador in Japan: the Other Side of the EFL Experience | ITTT | TEFL Blog Shanique Hutchinson Destinations TEFL Information Alumni Experiences This blog post was written by a recent TEFL course graduate who works as a cultural ambassador in Japan. Read more about her adventures teaching English in Asia in this blog post.  [Read more]

Our ITTT TEFL and TESOL Alumni Stories Teaching English in Taiwan ✅ The Hidden Gem of Asia Christian Davey Destinations Alumni Experiences Are you interested in teaching English in Taiwan? ✅ Here's a first-hand report on what it's like to teach in one of Asia's best kept hidden gems! A Day in the Life of an ALT on the JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) Programme Georgia Payne Destinations TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Are you interested in teaching English in Japan? ✅ Here's what a day in the life of an ALT on the JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) Programme looks like! How to Build Strong Reading Skills from Early Childhood Elizaveta Pachina TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas In this blog post, our TEFL graduate shares their thoughts on...  [Read more]

The Most Popular TEFL Destinations For Teachers Teaching English in 2021 ✅ What You Need to Know Federico Riva Destinations TEFL Information Are you interested in teaching English abroad or online in 2021? ✅ Our TEFL expert Linda is sharing current trends, predictions, and everything you need to know for teaching English in the coming year. You don't want to miss this! The World of the Fulbright Program for Teaching English Abroad Lulu Johnson Destinations TEFL Information Alumni Experiences The Fulbright program is a great way to travel abroad and work as an English language teacher in an exciting new country. ✅ This article will go over what Fulbright is, their English teaching program, and how to apply to Fulbright in this blog post. Teaching English in Taiwan...  [Read more]

Assistant Language Teacher Needed in Japan Date posted:2021-07-26 | Writer: Heart Corporation | Email: [email protected] Ready for your next big adventure?!Why not help teach English in Japan, as an Assistant Language Teacher!We are seeking enthusiastic teachers and graduates for the 2022 Japanese schools year. We are always looking for candidates who have a passion for teaching and are willing to assist Japanese students in fulfilling the dreams of speaking with you without the fear of making a mistake. They may not know it at first, but your voice will help propel them into the world of English at a young age.Assistant Language Teacher(ALT)The role of an ALT has two main duties: Providing fun and effective English lessons and Internationalizing Japanese youth. Japanese youth...  [Read more]

What is the JET Program for teaching English in Japan? The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program (JET) is a government backed scheme that has been operating for over 30 years. Every year around 5,000 foreign nationals are placed into schools right across Japan with the intention of raising the language skills of young people. Unlike many similar programs in other countries, the JET Program also has a strong focus on cultural exchange between participants and the local population. Competition for places on the program is generally very tough as successful applicants receive a competitive salary and a range of extra benefits. What are the requirements for the JET Program? The program is open to college graduates up to the age of 40, although its status as primarily a youth culture exchange...  [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]

Older Posts Coursebooks and Materials - Best Use of the Coursebook Federico Riva Teaching Ideas In this blog we will consider how best to use the teaching material course book that often accompanies a course. There are a number of stategies we can adopt to get the most out of the book in different situations. What are Conditionals? Federico Riva TEFL Information Teaching Ideas What are conditionals? In simplest terms, they say “if this happens, then that happens”. They're commonly referred to as ‘if' sentence structures’. Evaluation and Testing of Students - Placements Tests Federico Riva TEFL Information Alumni Experiences In this blog we will show how a simple speaking interview with the student, can be used to place them in one of the five ESL teaching...  [Read more]

Our ITTT TEFL and TESOL Alumni Stories What is Reported Speech? Federico Riva Alumni Experiences We can quote people through what's called direct speech. In written form it would look like “Corey said we're moving house next week”. We've used quotes and we've quoted Corey directly, i.e. used the exact words that he used. There is however another way we can quote people, and this is through reported speech. We don't quote their exact words, but we simply let people know what has been said. Evaluation and Testing of Students - Placements Tests Federico Riva TEFL Information Alumni Experiences In this blog we will show how a simple speaking interview with the student, can be used to place them in one of the five ESL teaching bands, from Starter to Upper-Intermediate....  [Read more]

Older Posts Top 10 ESL Activities for Older English Learners Francesca Marchi TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas Are you teaching English abroad or online to older students? ✅ Here are 10 ESL activities for older English learners for you to try. Q&A About TEFL/TESOL ✅ Ask us anything! Federico Riva TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas Check out one of our live sessions on Facebook and Youtube where we answer all the most burning questions about TEFL and TESOL and teaching English abroad. Overview of TEFL and TESOL for Teaching English Abroad or Online Linda Dunsmore TEFL Information Teaching Ideas Are you interested in teaching English as a new career - either abroad, from home or on the road? ✅ We explore the world of TEFL...  [Read more]

The World Of TEFL and TESOL Explained The Crucial Role of Parents in ESL Teaching Elizaveta Pachina TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares their ideas on how parents can help their children learn English effectively. ✅ Read this article to learn the most important factors. 3 Strategies to Keep ESL Students Motivated Elizaveta Pachina TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate shares their ideas on how to keep ESL students motivated. ✅ Read this article to learn the three easy steps. 3 Effective Ways to Manage a Classroom of Pre-Schoolers Elizaveta Pachina TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas In this blog post, our recent TEFL graduate...  [Read more]

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Japanese Native Speakers and Their Challenges in ESL Learning This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Doneika D. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Table of Contents Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course today! Related Articles: I am currently an English teacher living in Japan. I teach both Elementary and Junior High School English Language. Japan's government allows the students to start learning English sometimes as early as Kindergarten. Most Elementary schools have a designated ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) that possesses a native level of English. Even though English is a compulsory subject in Japanese Junior High and High...  [Read more]

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 Maddy Payne Destinations TEFL Information Alumni Experiences 5 Benefits of Sharing a 17sq-meter Apartment in Tokyo on the JET Program In 2019, my sister and I received the exciting news that we had been accepted into the JET Program to live and teach English in Japan! If you have ever looked at teaching in Japan, or even Asia in general, you have probably come across the JET Program before. JET allows you to live and work in Japan as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) while earning one of the highest wages you can get as an ALT. Table of Contents 1. The freedom of choice 2. Everything becomes cheaper 3. What household chores? 4. A tiny apartment makes you leave said tiny apartment 5. A minimalist dream Are you ready to teach English in Japan? Related Articles:...  [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]

Amanda Stern Snacking ramen by moonlight, teaching English by daylight. Amanda spent a year abroad in Tokyo, living the quintessential metropolitan life. Now, she is an ALT in rural Japan, enjoying the slower pace and local flavours. Read my articles Team-teaching: The Good and The Ugly | ITTT | TEFL Blog Amanda Stern Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas A preferred method of teaching abroad is the team-teaching approach. This is where two teachers, dubbed T1 (often the “main” teacher”) and T2 (often the “assistant”), work together to develop a syllabus, prepare materials and lessons, teach students, then evaluate the results and make changes whenever deemed necessary. As the base, unless T2 has strong language skills in the local language, T1 will be expected to explain...  [Read more]

TEFL Certified Teachers Needed Immediately in Japan Date posted:2015-07-15 | Writer: Heart English School | Email: [email protected] Heart English School is seeking new native-level EFL teachers who are available now, or for the next school year. The new school year will start in April 2016, and we will have positions all over the Kanto area starting in April, May, or June. Locations include Tokyo, Saitama, Chiba, Ibaraki, Kanagawa, Shizuoka, Gunma, Tochigi, Yamanashi and Iwate. The primary positions offered by Heart are Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) and English Teacher. The two major responsibilities of these positions are to provide excellent quality English lessons and to facilitate the internationalization of Japanese students.     Positions are typically 5...  [Read more]

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 Maddy Payne Destinations TEFL Information Alumni Experiences An Australian Amongst American Textbooks in Japan: ✅ Teaching in a Country that Values American English Assistant Language Teachers in Japan come from different countries worldwide, bringing different kinds of English with them. In my experience, American English is often the most sought-after version of English. Some countries highly value Language Teachers from the USA, which often matches their American-style textbooks and resources. Sometimes people are even overlooked for job opportunities due to their Australian accent and British English background. Well, Japan is no different in this regard. Many Japanese schools hold American English in high regard, so what is it like being an Australian-English...  [Read more]

TEFL Teachers Needed in Gotemba, Japan Date posted:2009-02-03 | Writer: Little Star English School | Email: [email protected] Gotemba is a 1.5hour drive from Tokyo. Population is about 85,000. Positions are available for 2 Full-time 1Part-time English conversational teachers, commencing in April 2009. Preferably arriving in middle of March 2009 for a 2week training/probation period. 30-40hours teaching per week, plus preparation and driving time. Working days are from Monday to Friday. Sat/Sun and all National holidays are off, and teachers will receive additional vacation. Classes are for both adults and children(4-6students per class), covering a wide variety of ages and levels. Our school is a private English academy offering private and group lessons in 2 locations as well as...  [Read more]

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences The Struggle of Teaching English in Rural Japan Perhaps one of the most commonly used justifications for widespread English language education is "English is the global lingua franca." This statement seems to encapsulate the general sentiment towards the importance of English. With the recent advancements in technology, geographical and temporal barriers have greatly lessened and international relations are no longer restricted to certain fields such as politics and media. The average citizen can now commence personal and economic relationships with the world via the internet. And this, of course, highlights the need for a common language that will facilitate effective intercultural communication. In highly urbanized and...  [Read more]