This workshop aimed to provide both Japanese-basis and English-basis students with opportunities to practice discussions in the language they were learning under the multicultural and multilingual setting. Also, students were supposed to learn about language learning strategies (LLS) on how to deal with a language barrier. As one of the focused LLS, the concept of Plain English and Japanese was introduced, and they practiced making plain sentences. Finally, through group discussions, students were expected to learn to change their ways of communication according to situations or interlocutors, which is an essential quality to be a global citizen.
Overview:
· Participants: 1st year Japanese-basis and English-basis students (10-15 students each= 30 students)
· Time: 10/30 (Wed.) 4th period, 11/6 (Wed.) 4th period
· Organization: Each session consisted of group discussions on LLS, short lectures on Plain English and Japanese and useful expressions to express one’s ideas, and group discussions about daily to controversial topics.
· A total of 31 students participated in these two workshops. These workshops were supported by two English and two Japanese teachers (Mr. Rentler, Itoi, Itabashi and Hirotsu). Their specialties were used to determine the activity framework, such as making pairs (groups), discussion topics, and introduction of LLS, which resulted in the high satisfaction rates of participants.