Based on the idea of Lingua Franca (a language between people not sharing a native language), which is a development from the concept of EFL (English as a Foreign Language, an English education program for those whose native language is not English), the English course at Tamagawa Academy has classes that seek to take advantage of this style of teaching.
The English class, which is held in the third period on Tuesdays, aims to mainly develop basic English skills and build skills needed to succeed in entrance or certification exams. Also, it gives importance to the real English output to develop knowledge of English into more practical skills.
On the day, in the class of the PL course each of the10th graders (first grade high school students) delivered a presentation in English, showing pictures or real things. This is a practical training, in which they answer questions set in their textbook by not only writing but also speaking in English.
Denis, the class teacher, gives lessons only in English. Even though there were students who were still not used to it, his cheerful, conversational demeanour relaxed them. Then, the students were able to relax and enjoy the lesson.
While the students receive input from the textbook, they must produce output in English repeatedly during a class like this. They not only obtain knowledge but also improve their English skills as a practical communication tool.
The class also places a high priority on reading English aloud. Speaking living English helps their learning and academic improvement, and eventually English should be a practical language for them in itself.
All of the students were enthusiastically studying with an eye toward the opportunities that will come after they learn a new language English.