DIARY OF AN ENGLISH TEACHER

Teaching English in Japan: What I Wish I Knew

There are some lessons in life that you can only gain through experience.

Disclaimer: This is purely based on my own experience. They do not represent the views of organisations and institutions that hire English teachers.

You might have seen these on job advertisements recruiting English teachers to work in Japan.

“A TEFL/TESOL certification is recommended.”
“You do not have to speak Japanese.”
“No prior experience required.”
“There will be teachers who speak English at schools.”

Is this article about busting the myths? Not exactly. This is how it really worked out for me, an English teacher currently living in Japan.

A TEFL/TESOL certification is recommended

Certificates are useful before applying to teach English in Japan. It was required, in my case, and I thought it was helpful as a teacher with many more years of experience to put in the bank. A TESOL is really basic, and you can complete it while working full time. However, bear in mind that this is just the beginning. The course may equip you with some key aspects of English and teaching such as grammar, classroom management and understanding how to build basic lesson plans, but it does not prepare you for the specific type of students that you are going to teach.

Tip: More is good. Study the language that you will teach. After completing your first certificate, and if you are absolutely certain that this is the career path you want to take, consider other options such as CELTA or an MA in TESOL later.

You do not have to speak Japanese

… in the classroom. That is what they meant! Some English teachers here do not use Japanese in their classes at all or allow their students to assume that they do not know Japanese. This is a type of language immersion to move students towards being competent in their second language. However, using some Japanese in the class does not hurt. It is a great way to build rapport with your students. Japanese teachers also appreciate it when you take an interest in their culture (not just your favourite anime) and students.

Tip: Listen. That’s right! For instance, pay attention to your students’ anime and manga recommendations. They know more than you do and what trends they look out for within their age group. This is how you can show you are invested in their interests. Also, listening to your teachers’ conversations helps you familiarise yourself with language sounds.This will come in handy when you want to learn the language later.

No prior experience required

This is true if you are the type who likes learning to swim by starting at the deep end of the pool. Some organisations may offer training sessions which is great for new teachers, but do not expect it to prepare you for every single situation like applying your teaching techniques to different types of classrooms. For example, a lesson for a class with responsive students may not work with students who are not confident to speak up. It takes a couple of tries to find out how you can adapt to that situation. Always keep an open mind and be willing to learn.

Tip: If you have never taught before, try observing some lessons online before you actually start teaching. Take note of how the teacher makes the environment a safe place to learn, how he or she engages with students, and what kind of materials they use.

There will be teachers who speak English at schools

Schools that have appointed English teachers will be your lifesavers. They are the ones who talk to you about lessons and school announcements. Depending on how much they use English, they may not be as fluent as you think. They still use their mother tongue for school events and while planning their lessons by themselves. Yes, they do speak English but note that not everyone has near-native level English like you do. So keep it simple, straightforward and be positive!

Tip: Remember that Rome was not built in a day. Just like how some friendships start off, it takes time to establish a good relationship with teachers. It also helps if you tell them that you intend to stay in Japan for a while.

Every person has their own teacher journey. It is not all a bed of roses — that is a fact. It is up to you to decide what kind of teacher you would like to be. Take charge of your career and good luck!