Teaching English To Japanese Students

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Japan is a country with a long history, deep tradition, and vibrant culture. Within this culture sits the Japanese language. At first, being a spoken language and then adopting the Chinese Writing System, Japanese has grown and changed into what it is today. If you look at all languages, most Western languages originate from a set family, such as Romance Languages (which became today's Spanish, French, Italian, etc). But Japanese (as most Asian languages) was formed from entirely different roots. These fundamental differences mean that the method of learning these languages has a lot to do with memorization and repetitive practice of the Chinese symbols and the words they represent. Which means it is difficult to find any common ground between it and...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Japan is a country continuously changing at a rapid pace largely due to globalization and marketing. With its growing popularity and necessity, difficulties are sure to arise for people learning English and specifically, in Japan. To fully understand all the problems learners face in Japan, it is important to realize why English is so widely being studied in the first place. Firstly, students must study English for 6 years throughout primary and high school. As well as being part of the Japanese schooling system, the advantages of being able to speak English are endless. The benefits of finding a job or being able to communicate whilst abroad are common motives. However in Japan specifically, more so than western countries, the education and pressure put...  [Read more]

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 Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: 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]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences 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. 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 ITTT. While the English alphabet is phonemic, with each letter representing a single...  [Read more]

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 Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: 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]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas I have been teaching in Japan for over 12 years in three different locations ranging from the southernmost part of Hokkaido to the southern island of Kyushu, where I presently reside. The youngest students I have had were children not even two years of age, whereas my older students were in their seventies. This is a very common situation for those who teach here in Japan; a country where the English boom occurred not too long after they rebuilt their nation following the Second World War. Interest Popular Culture Influence Pronunciation Difficulties Language Systems Confidence Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Andrew W. Please note that this blog post...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas A large number of obstacles can arise for the students when learning a foreign language. Some of these problems are related to the contrast between the mother language and the learned language. About the differences between L1 and L2, there is plenty of research in the field of contrastive linguistics. Moreover, regarding that topic, many papers can be found comparing English to Japanese with the aim to address the problems of Japanese learners of English. However, other predicaments with the apprehension of the L2 can develop when teachers underestimate the importance of the cultural dimension of the language taught. Concerning that particular impediment, less scientific literature exists. In this essay, the discussion will focus on several issues of...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Japan is a First-World, Asian country, well-known for its clean vehicular designs, its production of famed animations, its ability to wow the Western world with hygienic efforts even at leisurely events (World Cup 2018), and overall its impeccable attention to detail in most areas of life. Yet, even with these accolades behind the name, there remains a sore spot, which any foreigner who has experienced Japan in the flesh, can verify exists. That is, the surprising lack of ability of the general public to understand and/or produce comprehensible English, an established global language. Failures Teaching techniques Social challenges Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification...  [Read more]

Enhancing vocabulary skills is essential for Japanese students who are learning English as a second language. By expanding their vocabulary, students can improve their communication skills, comprehension, and overall language proficiency. In this article, we will explore effective strategies and techniques to help Japanese learners build their English vocabulary. We will discuss the importance of vocabulary acquisition, provide practical tips for expanding vocabulary, and recommend resources to support vocabulary development. Additionally, we will highlight the role of teachers in facilitating vocabulary growth and offer suggestions for creating a conducive learning environment for students. 1. Importance of Vocabulary Acquisition 2. Practical Tips for Expanding Vocabulary 3. Resources...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Japanese learners of English face challenges which are based on background and cultural aspects, racial barriers, perception of the English language, as well the lack of freedom of expression. This becomes the basis on which their motivation, or lack thereof, to study English is built. Coming from a motivational background, I was self-assured that my plans to get my low-level High School students motivated about learning English would be less challenging to implement. Reality proved otherwise as this process has required the breaking of certain barriers in order for me to be successful in my endeavors. Following is a further explanation on each of the different challenges which I have observed to be the cause of the lack of motivation amongst many...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Whether online or in-person teaching English to children is higher energy than adults. A teacher must be kind, happy, fun and energetic. A teacher must speak clearly, slowly as needed and use lots of hand gestures, visual aids, and props. Teachers should prompt students, giving them time to answer and lots of opportunities to speak, ensuring a student-centered class. Obvious Difficulties in the Approach My Experience Teaching Process Out-of-control Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Laurel C. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Teaching English online presents some differences from a...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences This essay seeks to explain how the Japanese 'Katakana' and 'Romaji' alphabets cause barriers to the introduction of English education in Japanese elementary schools. It will look at how these alphabets affect the pronunciation, writing, and reading abilities of Japanese students. The Japanese language arguably has four different alphabets. Chart 1: Examples of Katakana and Romaji English word(s)/ English pronunciation/ Katakana/ Katakana pronunciation/ Romaji Engage: Study: Activate: Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Ethan M. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. The main two, 'Hiragana' (the...  [Read more]

Sarah Jennings Teaching Ideas Teaching a group or small class of students has many advantages. Students who are able to speak and practice English conversation will benefit from the small group and safe environment that comes from discussions at close quarters. The advantages of teaching English to groups of students are numerous. Not only do collaborative learning projects foster an environment where 'two heads or more heads are better than one,' but they also provide opportunities for students to learn from peers and make friends. When students work together on problem-solving tasks, they are more likely to experiment with different techniques and learn faster from both positive and negative feedback. Moreover, engaging in discussions and questioning each other's opinions and...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Presently, I take care of my ninety-six-year-old father at home and have no immediate plans to teach overseas. Fortunately, I live in a community (Aurora, Colorado) that has over 140 different language groups and ethnicities. Aurora ranks as the tenth most diverse community in the United States. I have worked toward my TEFL certification for the future; however, I have plans to use the training now. Personal Plan Online Platforms Requirements Employment Salaries The Effective Online Teacher Set Expectations Correct Carefully Relationship and Feedback Project (Individual and Group) Resources Closing Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Roland A. Please note...  [Read more]

Mark Crocker Alumni Experiences Being able to listen and read is an indispensable part of being a fluent user of the English language. I have been teaching business English since 1993 and know that the primary tasks of my students are acquiring exposure to the English-speaking business environment, immersing themselves in anglophone culture and being able to comprehend complex ideas in their professional fields through different media. As broadband Internet connection becomes ever more pervasive, students are switching from printed information sources to video and text content available online. Learners' increasing demands represent an even greater challenge for me as an EFL tutor. The question then becomes, how do I tackle this challenge in my everyday teaching practice? Why teaching...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas 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 testing of productive skills in English. Therefore, junior high school students are expected to have these...  [Read more]

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]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Teaching English to high-school students and teaching English to university students are uniquely different and require different skills and teaching methods. High school students are in a period of development known as adolescence. One of the leading developmental psychologists, Erik Erikson, defines adolescence as a period of struggle between identity versus role confusion (Hutchison, 2013). During adolescence, high schoolers are going through many physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes (Hutchison, 2013). They are struggling to define who they are in this world not about their parents. They want to make their own choices in life based on their reasoning. A high schooler may choose on their own to learn English as a foreign language, but...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas These days, young children from non-English speaking countries are increasingly being forced to learn English and many parents believe that their children knowing English will benefit their children's futures. The demand for English teachers, particularly in Asia, is quite high and this has called for many schools and English learning centers in Asia to look to hire native English speakers. As demand is high, there often is a compromise on the quality of the teachers. Working with young children requires specific skill sets that often can be taught but must also come naturally. This essay will address issues and provide recommendations on what is needed to be able to work with young children that are learning English for the first time. Teachers'...  [Read more]

Are you considering teaching English in Japan? With its unique culture, advanced technology, and high demand for English teachers, Japan is a popular destination for those looking to teach English as a foreign language. In this article, we will explore the best Japanese cities for English teaching jobs, providing valuable insights into the top locations for ESL teachers in Japan. As the bustling capital city of Japan, Tokyo offers a wide range of opportunities for English teachers. With a vibrant expat community, numerous language schools, and international companies, Tokyo is a hub for English language education. From prestigious universities to private language institutes, there are plenty of options for ESL teachers in Tokyo. Additionally, the city's efficient public transportation...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas The most challenging activity for adults and the enjoyable learning of children is language learning. This ability of children to learn a new language has been confirmed by various studies. At the same time, in early language education, children have a much better pronunciation ability than adults. The reason behind all this closeness is that the children's brains are much more flexible and adapt to a new language more easily. Because they learn the language by hearing, repeating, and imitating. Everything they learn is recorded in the main area of ​​the brain. This makes the learning process much shorter. Another reason is perhaps the most effective. Children are more courageous than adults. Because they don't feel anxiety or panic while...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas There are four basic skills in any language: receptive skills – reading and listening, and productive skills – speaking and writing. Usually, when we learn a new language, we tend to access our learning process and result by checking how our productive skills are and forget that before we can the product, we need to receive first. Data says that the production of every 100 words in writing needs a receipt of 1000 words in reading which means to be able to produce anything, one must get as much as 10 times receipt. Similarly in listening and speaking. Receptive Skills: Writing vs. Reading Decoding Reading aloud for fluency Learning how to read close Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences The differences between many Asiatic languages' pronunciation and that of English form the basis for a multitude of miscommunications between international interlocutors. My experience living in Japan provides plentiful evidence to support this assertion. When my Japanese associates and I communicate in English, I notice three significant pronunciation struggles for my conversation partners. For the Japanese who are learning English, the clear enunciation of the /th/ sound, the fricative quality of the /v/ consonant, and the distinction of /l/ versus /r/ formation of the tongue. Language Structure Difficult sounds Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course today! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate...  [Read more]

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 Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course today! Related Articles: 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]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Reading is one of the key elements for all English learners. By reading authentic stories and books, not only do we learn reading and understanding the text we are working with, but we also expand our vocabulary by discovering new authentic words you wouldn't be able to find in your course books, and more importantly, you can see it in context which makes it easier to remember and use those words and structures in the future. Younger Students Teens and Adults Resources Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Julia P. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. It's important to know which stories to choose...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Stories serve to be entertaining and educational in most cultures. A nice bedtime story for young children becomes a ritual in a lot of families nowadays, it makes up a sweet memory for a lot of people. When the listener is interested in the story, even when there is no verbal communication between the storyteller and the listener, there is still a bond between them. Therefore, storytelling is such a powerful tool teacher could use. Storytelling could make the lesson more interesting and memorable. To build the bond between the students and the teacher during storytelling, the teacher has to make sure the attention of his/her audiences are fully attracted. To make sure the stories are interesting for students the teacher has to consider several factors...  [Read more]

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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]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas According to David Crystal (1941), 'Vocabulary is a matter of word-building as well as word-using.' While this may be true and speaks to the fundamental usage of vocabulary in any language, vocabulary can also be seen as world-building. Vocabulary is 'the body of words used in a particular language' (Google, 2019). While the aforementioned clearly identify why it is important to teach vocabulary, this essay will try to explore it a bit further. Main Language Tool Vocabulary and Communication Vocabulary in Real Life Situations Common Vocabulary Teaching Techniques Do you want to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Rayon B. Please note that this blog post might not...  [Read more]