ENGLISH IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Foreign language classes through the fifth grade level of elementary schools are part of a larger goal to familiarise children with foreign languages, lifestyles and cultures, rather than focusing on teaching a foreign language in a formal way. They are not supposed to be preparation for junior high school, and the use of katakana should be avoided. Unlike junior and senior high schools, there are no set textbooks for younger elementary students, and the emphasis of foreign language education is placed on the listening and speaking of simple terms that students know from their daily lives as opposed to written forms. English should be taught in a fun and natural way, using activities such as songs and games. Some communities may not be ready to introduce English at an earlier age than this, but would like their children to be more internationally minded and have introduced “International Understanding” education for younger learners.