The importance of building a "safe space" for students to speak as much English as possible
Speak English without worrying about mistakes!
What do you pay special attention to in class with regard to instructing your students?
Mr. Lerner:
I tell my students I want them to relax, and not to worry even if they make mistakes speaking English.
From a native speaker's perspective, what tricks or secrets are there to mastering English?
Mr. Lerner:
As I said, they shouldn't worry if they make a mistake. Many native speakers hear English from immigrants or foreigners every day, but as long as the point is getting across it doesn't matter if they make mistakes.
Do you have any tips for communicating with the Japanese teaching staff?
Mr. Lerner:
In lessons, the Japanese teacher of English and the ALT have to communicate with each other and aim for a 50-50 balance to make progress.
What do you find interesting about acting as an ALT?
Mr. Lerner:
There are many interesting people around me, I enjoy talking with them.
What surprised or impressed you after coming to Japan, and what do you like about the country?
Mr. Lerner:
I was surprised at how expensive melons are, and that Tokyo subways don't run 24 hours. I was impressed to see that boxes of alcohol left outside of izakayas or bars don't get stolen. I'd say that safety is what I like about Japan. No guns means there's freedom here.
For a native English teacher such as yourself, what do you find difficult with regard to Japanese?
Mr. Lerner:
I find kanji stroke order quite difficult!
