The editorial titled "Disappointing levels of English" in the March 29 edition made me sad to know that many high school students have difficulty in learning English, particularly with speaking and writing. And also, this is another shocking reality, that about 60 percent do not like studying English.
First of all, it would be necessary to analyze what produces this kind of reality. Is the class size appropriate for a language classroom? Is the interaction between students and teachers very active and stimulating? Is something wrong with the way students study English?
For any language learning classes, approximately 10 students would be an ideal number. Then teachers can check every student's progress and individually help them learn more.
The article says also that more basic reforms are needed in Japan's English-language classrooms.
I would like to suggest two ways to improve English education. One is to have a presentation experience in English. Topics would be self-introduction, families, my dreams, relationship with other countries, Japanese culture and so on.
Both teachers and students would have to work harder, but this would surely make students better writers and speakers, and they would never forget their presentation experiences.
One more proposal is to use English-English dictionaries. Not just understanding the meaning of words through translating into Japanese, but understanding the definition of each word in English is so useful for improving writing and speaking, and even thinking ability!
The opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are the writer's own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of The Japan Times.