They Don’t Speak English in Narnia





So what exactly is the issue?




That’s it.



There are benefits everywhere you look.

Yet, for the average high school kid in Japan.


Because it won’t help them get into university.


Not every destination is what you expect it to be.

5 responses to “They Don’t Speak English in Narnia

  1. You’re right. I do think the biggest reason they find it hard is that the languages are so distinct, but, as you said, that doesn’t mean it can’t be learned. It just means it takes a bit more effort and, of course, more effective methods. Every so often I see kids lose the playful experimentation with language they had before they got sucked into worrying whether this stock answer is the right one to use in this blank on the test and it drives me nuts. They lose all sense of language as a tool to communicate and focus almost entirely on form and not on function and meaning. Not all kids by any means, but every so often it happens. It’s a shame, but when all their teachers and parents have to go by in terms of a judging stick is the school test, it’s not surprising. But, as everyone says, unless the final testing system changes, there is unlikely to be any improvement.
    Can’t really blame the teachers, either, as they are stuck in the system, too. Or should that be, ‘They are also stuck in the system.’ Too, also, which is better? No, but which should I write? Which is correct?
    You get my drift.

    By the way, is your book thing still coming out?

    • Couldn’t agree more. There are kids in my conversation classes who can’t stand grammar lessons as they are terrified of the wrong answer but absolutely flourish in a more relaxed atmosphere where we correct as they go rather than with a giant red pen.

      And as for the book, I haven’t announced yet as I’m busy with family visiting this week but take a peek at Amazon…

  2. Thanks Matt. As always a very nice piece of writing. From my observation there are a few reasons behind it .First of all, learning of a foreign language can be easily done by somebody who also likes to work independently, not so much as Japanese people in the group. It requires a lot of individual time to understand the grammar structures and to learn new vocabulary . These characteristics do not necessarily fit into Japanese characteristics. In here everyday life is being fulfilled by the group activities. Plus (especially boys) don`t feel like learning English the same as any other foreign language, because they are not influenced by the Western culture as much as those who are not living in a far away island country. Finally, most of Japanese boys and men like engineering, where the fruits of labor can be easily seen.

    • Very kind of you Bart, and some very interesting points about the cultural factors that contribute to a lack of motivation and interest on the part of many students.

      Language can indeed be difficult to measure, especially compared to something like engineering, that’s why long term planning is so essential in private lessons so that you can set the student on a clear path.

  3. Well done on the book – will stick it on my to read list.

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