Can I Go To Japan Without Knowing Japanese

Teaching English to Japanese students can be very difficult because of cultural and lingual differences. Japanese students are very different from American and European students. An advantage is their tendency to be more reserved and well behaved. However, they do not like to speak in class because they do not want to appear arrogant (Ikeda). This is a cultural custom and it will take extra encouragement to coax the students to talk. Also, students do not like to make eye contact and will become very embarrassed if they do not know an answer (Ikeda). Teachers must be sensitive to these manners in order to conduct a comfortable class for the students. A gradual progression toward a more English style class will be the most productive approach to classroom differences...  [Read more]

Japanese people are known to be well educated. In the case of English, most people have at least six years of English learning experience in school. However in reality, the majority of those people are not able to hold a short, basic conversation in English, even just a few lines of greeting. A language is a communication tool. If you cannot communicate with it, it is pointless to spend so much time and effort on learning it' Thus, clearly something is ineffective in the way that English was taught in Japan to my generation or to the generations who are old enough to prove this inefficient result. In this article, I try to describe the problems that Japanese people have and the appropriate teaching aspects in terms of their English fluency and pronunciation, from the...  [Read more]

'Would you tell me, please, which way I ought to go from here'That depends a good deal on where you want to get to.' 'Alice in Wonderland, Chapter VI, page 64, L. Carroll 1960The quote above comes from an old childhood favorite but clearly makes a case for the use and reasoning behind a syllabus. But, first and foremost we must define what a syllabus is. The American Heritage Dictionary tells us that a syllabus is an outline of a course of study. Other sources explain what a syllabus is as a student's introduction to the subject as well as you the teacher. Also, as a document that communicates your goals and expectations to the students. It can also be an official notice of policies and requirements, as well as a learning tool. But most importantly, it is an agreement between the...  [Read more]

  This presentation is going to have a look at the idea of receptive skills and how we can go about teaching receptive skills lessons. There are two receptive skills and they are reading and listening. If we think about first of all, why do we read or listen, then there are probably two main answers to that. Firstly, it could either be for entertainment or it could be for a specific purpose. Within the reading and listening areas there are a number of sub-skills that we can teach our students. Firstly, what we can do is to show different examples of reading. So, let's say, for example, that we have just bought ourselves a new video camera and along with that video camera came a whole book of instructions. In order to find out how to get that camera working, then we would need to...  [Read more]

Are you considering a career change or looking to explore new opportunities in education? Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) can be a rewarding and exciting career path, especially in Asia where the demand for English teachers is high. With the right qualifications and training, you can embark on a journey of cultural immersion, personal growth, and professional development. At ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training), we offer comprehensive TEFL certification courses that will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive job market in Asia. Our courses are internationally recognized and accredited, ensuring that you receive top-notch training that meets the highest standards. Whether you are a recent graduate, a seasoned educator, or someone...  [Read more]

1. Understanding the TESOL Industry 2. Factors to Consider When Choosing a TESOL Program 3. Tailored TESOL Programs for Japan 4. Conclusion The field of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is vast and diverse, offering numerous opportunities for individuals interested in teaching English as a second language. With the increasing demand for English language proficiency in countries like Japan, selecting a TESOL program tailored to the specific needs of this region is crucial for success. International TEFL and TESOL Training (ITTT) provides comprehensive TESOL programs designed to meet the unique requirements of teaching English in Japan. When considering a TESOL program, it is essential to evaluate various factors to ensure that the program aligns with your career goals...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Teaching Opportunities in Tokyo 3. Qualifications and Requirements 4. How ITTT Can Help Tokyo, the bustling capital city of Japan, offers a myriad of opportunities for those looking to teach English as a foreign language. With a unique blend of tradition and modernity, Tokyo attracts thousands of expats every year who are eager to immerse themselves in the rich culture and make a difference in the lives of their students. If you are considering a teaching career in Tokyo, this guide will provide you with valuable information on how to find teaching jobs in this vibrant city. Tokyo is home to a diverse range of language schools, international schools, and private tutoring opportunities, making it a prime destination for TEFL and TESOL certified teachers. Language schools...  [Read more]

In today's globalized world, the demand for English teachers is on the rise, especially in countries like Japan where English proficiency is essential for academic and professional success. Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) in Japan can be a rewarding and enriching experience, but it requires a specific set of qualifications to be successful. This article will explore the qualifications needed to teach English in Japan, the benefits of pursuing a career in TEFL, and how ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training) can help you achieve your goals. 1. **Bachelor's Degree:** One of the primary qualifications needed to teach English in Japan is a bachelor's degree in any field. Most schools and language institutes in Japan require English teachers to have a minimum of a bachelor's...  [Read more]

Congratulations if you have recently completed a TEFL certification course and are now looking for that all important first teaching position. As learning English is commonplace in the majority of countries around the world, qualified TEFL teachers rarely find it difficult to secure a good job. However, the level of demand can vary greatly from one place to the next, which also means the level of requirements can vary. What is required in one country might be completely different to the requirements in its immediate neighbor. As mentioned above, the demand for qualified TEFL teachers varies considerably and can have a big effect on where you might end up working in your first teaching position. Certain countries also have stricter rules and regulations than others, as do individual...  [Read more]

Confidence is very important for a teacher to have. How can students feel confident if their teaching is not' Confidence can be hard to come by especially if you are a new teacher. It begins with you and there are some things you can do to build up your confidence. Before you even enter the classroom imagine how you would like your class to run and set the appropriate goals to achieve that aim. Be sure that your goals are attainable and can be reached by you and your students without unnecessary pressure. 'Start slowly and simply. Establish a daily routine your students can handle.'*Prepare thoroughly for the class. This will take time and effort. To make the class interesting for your students you will probably add things to the lesson or have activities. For these to be...  [Read more]

With long summers and mild winters, countless sandy beaches, a laid-back lifestyle, great food, and hundreds of islands to explore, Greece has been a popular teaching destination for many years. Unfortunately, the country’s recent economic woes have had a negative impact on the number of available jobs and it may be sometime before it fully recovers. However, there are still plenty of teaching positions on offer if you are willing to seek them out and you fit the necessary criteria. Due to the economic problems in recent times there has been a reduction in the number of teaching jobs on offer across Greece. This reduction means that employers are now more picky about who they choose to fill vacant positions. Also, it has become increasingly difficult for non-EU citizens to obtain the...  [Read more]

Living in Japan has given me the opportunity to see difficulties Japanese people have with English first hand. I have also discussed this issue with my Japanese wife and several other Japanese people as well. I have even discussed it with native English speakers and got their thoughts on the subject. The biggest thing that I have noticed is their accent. I moved to Italy when I was seven and grew up learning Italian. So I developed both an Italian and American accent. When I first moved to Japan eleven years ago, instead of learning the language I first developed a Japanese accent which helped me considerably when I started to actually learn the language. My point is that when learning a language it is very important to develop the accent for that language. When...  [Read more]

Teachers everywhere can attests to the fact that motivating students is not an easy task. One really has to work hard, be persistent and be creative at the same time in order to even attempt to motivate an unwilling student. Despite the difficulties encountered, motivation is a crucial component involved with teaching any student. A student's desire to participate in the learning process will essentially determine whether he/she will succeed or fail. The reasons for a student's motivation can vary a great deal, however there are basically two types of ways in which a student can be motivated. They can either be intrinsically motivated, which means they take part in the activity for their own enjoyment and for their own learning benefits, or they can be extrinsically...  [Read more]

Learning English can be very confusing to speakers of other languages. Music promotes, mantains and restores mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health and facilitates contact, interaction, self-awareness and communication. Finding the right song at the right time is the key for most teachers.What will they use the song for' Will they use it as a filler, to fill in the gaps of time between the next lesson' Will they use it to teach pronounciation' Clauses' To finish/match sentence halves' What the teacher uses the song for in the classroom will have a tremendous effect on how the students learn with the song.I have only so far used songs with beginners. When I used the songs, I also used big expressions, and hand gestures, which really hook them in and gain their...  [Read more]

There are many great songs in English that can be used to teach certain aspects of grammar, vocabulary, culture and idioms just to name a few possible uses. A teacher needs to be careful of using only old songs, especially if the students are more in tune with modern English music. There will always be classic songs from The Beatles, Bob Dylan, The Who and others that can be used. The challenge for the modern teacher is to be aware of the current music and teaching possibilities from new songs. Teaching idioms is one of the easiest topics to find new songs to use. It is hard not to listen to a new pop or rock song and not find some idiom used. For example Bon Jovi's new song 'Who Says You Can't Go Home' uses several idioms including the recycled 'born a rolling...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a foreign language can be done one of two ways: teaching a group of students or by teaching on a one-to-one basis. It's estimated that up to 40% of TEFL teaching is done one-to-one, however teachers find it increasingly difficult to find relevant material, advice and assistance on the method. Nicola Meldrum argues that teaching one-to-one 'unfortunately is not covered much in ELT discussion' and that 'It is somehow assumed that teaching English as a foreign language means organizing huge groups of students, while the reality is that one to one is a normal and significant part of our teaching lives' . Teachers are in effect left to their own devices; however this doesn't stop the concept of teaching one- to-one being an effective and advantageous method for...  [Read more]

Confidence is being able to talk with ease, have a constant flow of positive energy, and not let anything get you down. When someone is confident they have higher levels of self-esteem and this is projected in their outward behavior. There are few things someone can do in order to boost their confidence level. Here are few:Set goals. It is an important task to do. This is perhaps the most important task of them all. You should ask yourself what you wish to accomplish by being a more confident person. When you ask yourself this question, whatever comes to mind needs to be written down and constantly viewed a minimum of two times a day: Once in the morning and the second at night. This alone will enhance your confidence and bring your dreams to reality. Increase your voice level...  [Read more]

Are you bored with your current occupation? How would you like to see the world, experience different cultures, and get paid for it? From Spain to Sunny San Diego the EFL market is an occupationally diverse and exciting place to begin or continue your EFL career. Opportunities are ever growing and demand for qualified EFL teachers is steadily rising. The bulk of the positions are usually within the classroom; with a small variety of positions in other sectors such as: recruiting, EFL materials writing, volunteer positions, online teaching positions to even owning and operating your very own EFL School. Employers can also vary from small private schools to large companies like Toyota. One of the highest paying regions is and continues to be North East Asia in...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Top Cities for ESL Teaching in Japan 3. Teaching English in Tokyo 4. Teaching English in Osaka Are you considering teaching English as a foreign language in Japan? With its rich culture, advanced technology, and high demand for English teachers, Japan is a popular destination for ESL educators. When it comes to choosing a city to teach in, there are several factors to consider, such as the cost of living, job opportunities, and quality of life. In this guide, we will explore some of the top cities for ESL teaching in Japan and what each has to offer. Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, is a top choice for ESL teachers due to its vast number of language schools, international companies, and cultural attractions. With a high demand for English teachers, Tokyo offers a...  [Read more]

In building your confidence as a teacher, it is important to understand that the confidence you earn is a result of your affect. A teacher's management of the classroom, method of teaching, pride in their profession and respect for the individuals in the class are some of the important elements in the equation of building a teacher's confidence. In the paragraphs following, I have briefly stated ways in which I would practice classroom management for young and older students alike. If respect and care in a structure for the course and the students is carried out, than the students will have a strong desire to learn, which in return, give me self-assurance in my profession as a teacher.The procedures, strategies and instructional techniques that teachers use to manage student...  [Read more]

In the competitive world of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), Japan stands out as a lucrative destination for educators looking to enhance their careers and financial prospects. With its unique blend of traditional culture and modern amenities, Japan offers a rich and rewarding experience for TEFL teachers. However, to secure higher salaries and better opportunities in the Japanese TEFL market, certain qualifications and experiences are essential. In this guide, we will explore the key requirements necessary for TEFL teachers to unlock higher salaries in Japan. 1. Academic Qualifications: One of the primary factors that can impact your TEFL salary in Japan is your academic qualifications. Most employers in Japan prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in any field. While a...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) in Japan is a popular choice for many individuals looking to experience a new culture while also sharing their language skills. However, to secure a teaching position in Japan, there are certain qualifications and requirements that individuals must meet. In this article, we will discuss the qualifications needed to teach ESL in Japan, including education, certification, and other important factors. One of the primary qualifications for teaching ESL in Japan is having a bachelor's degree from an accredited university. While the field of study does not necessarily have to be in education or English, having a degree is typically a non-negotiable requirement for most teaching positions. Additionally, some schools or employers may prefer candidates...  [Read more]

Japanese people are known to be well educated. In the case of English, most people have at least six years of English learning experience in school. However in reality, the majority of those people are not able to hold a short, basic conversation in English, even just a few lines of greeting. A language is a communication tool. If you cannot communicate with it, it is pointless to spend so much time and effort on learning it? Thus, clearly something is ineffective in the way that English was taught in Japan to my generation or to the generations who are old enough to prove this inefficient result. In this article, I try to describe the problems that Japanese people have and the appropriate teaching aspects in terms of their English fluency and pronunciation, ...  [Read more]

Welcome to the exciting world of teaching English in Japan with ITTT! In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the various aspects of living and working as an English teacher in Japan. From the vibrant culture to the unique teaching opportunities, Japan offers a one-of-a-kind experience for those looking to teach English abroad. Japan is a popular destination for English teachers due to its high demand for English language education. With a rich history and a unique blend of tradition and modernity, Japan offers a fascinating backdrop for teaching English. As an English teacher in Japan, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, explore the country's breathtaking landscapes, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of your students. To teach English in...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Accreditation and Recognition 3. Curriculum and Course Content 4. Practical Teaching Experience When considering a Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program with a focus on Japan, there are several factors to take into account to ensure that you are making the right choice for your career goals. Whether you are looking to teach English in Japan or simply want to enhance your teaching skills with a Japan-specific focus, it is essential to choose a program that meets your needs and provides you with the necessary tools for success. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a TESOL program is accreditation and recognition. Look for programs that are accredited by reputable organizations such as the Accrediting Council for Continuing...  [Read more]

If you have ever dreamt of living and working in Japan, teaching English can be a rewarding and fulfilling way to experience the culture and make a living. As the demand for English teachers in Japan continues to grow, there are certain prerequisites you need to meet to secure a teaching position. This guide will outline the essential requirements and qualifications needed to teach English in Japan, including educational background, certifications, visa requirements, and job prospects. One of the primary prerequisites for teaching English in Japan is having a bachelor's degree from an accredited university. While the degree can be in any field, having a degree in English, education, or a related field can give you a competitive edge in the job market. Some schools and employers may also...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Qualifications and Requirements 3. Job Opportunities in Japan 4. Teaching English in Japan: Tips and Advice Are you passionate about teaching and interested in exploring new cultures? Teaching English in Japan could be the perfect opportunity for you. With a unique blend of traditional culture and modernity, Japan offers a rich and rewarding experience for English teachers. If you are considering a career in English teaching in Japan, this guide will provide you with valuable information to help you get started. To teach English in Japan, you typically need a bachelor's degree in any field. While a degree in education or English is preferred, it is not always mandatory. However, having a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) in Japan is a unique and rewarding experience that offers teachers the opportunity to immerse themselves in a rich and vibrant culture while making a positive impact on students' lives. With a strong demand for English language education and a deep appreciation for Western culture, Japan has become a popular destination for ESL teachers looking to gain valuable teaching experience and explore a new and exciting culture. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various aspects of ESL teaching in Japan, including the job market, qualifications and requirements, cultural considerations, and tips for success. Whether you are a seasoned ESL teacher looking to further your career or a newcomer to the field seeking adventure and personal growth,...  [Read more]

I'd like to write about my experience in volunteer teaching with an ALT, Assistant Language Teacher, at the local elementary school.Through this experience, the following important points that were covered by the TEFL course have been re-confirmed.1. Planning and preparation before lessons.2. Usage of the whiteboard/blackboard, flash cards, and the CD player.4. Facilities: classroom or gym'3. Body language: gestures and eye contact4. Voice control: volume, pronunciation, and accent5. DisciplineChiba prefecture, north east of Tokyo, where I live has been employing ALTs from all over the world for a number of years. Most of them are just out of college. Some of them have lived in Japan as exchange students in the past. ALT stands for assistant language teacher and therefore they...  [Read more]

1. The demand for English teachers in Japan 2. Qualifications and certifications required for teaching English in Japan 3. Career advancement opportunities for TEFL teachers in Japan 4. Conclusion In recent years, the demand for English teachers in Japan has been steadily increasing. As the country continues to globalize and prioritize English language education, there are abundant opportunities for career advancement in the field of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) in Japan. Whether you are a seasoned TEFL professional or just starting your teaching career, Japan offers a unique and rewarding environment to grow and excel in the field of education. Japan has a high demand for qualified English teachers at all levels of education, from kindergarten to adult learners. Public...  [Read more]