Teaching English in Japan, especially to young students, requires an understanding of the country's unique cultural nuances. Here are five key points to consider when teaching English to elementary students in Japan, along with some suggested phrases:
1. Shyness and Fear of Failure:
Young students often worry about making mistakes. Encourage them by saying, "Don't worry about making mistakes, that's how we learn. Let's try it again together."
2. Harmony ("Wa"):
Promote group consensus by making decisions together. You could say, "Let's decide this together. Everyone's ideas are important."
3. Silence:
Young students may need more time to think before they respond. Encourage this by saying, "Take your time. I can wait for your answer. No hurry."
4. Hierarchy and Age:
While this may be less relevant with younger students, you can still demonstrate respect for their thoughts. You might say, "Your experience matters. Can you share your thoughts?"
5. Indirectness:
When giving feedback, it's important to be gentle and non-confrontational. Try saying, "You're doing really well. There's a little thing we could work on to make your English even better, but remember, you're doing a great job overall!"
Being attentive to these cultural nuances can help build a positive and effective learning environment. Remember, teaching is a two-way street. As much as you teach your students, you can also learn from them about the richness and subtleties of Japanese culture. Embrace this opportunity, and enjoy your journey as an English teacher in Japan!