Bilingual
Bilingual Education
Bilingual Education for Children in the 21st Century
During the sensitive period of early childhood, children naturally acquire both Japanese and English while having fun. Native English teachers provide instruction exclusively in English, allowing children to learn practical expressions through role-play and games. Phonics-based reading and storytelling sessions help develop reading skills by understanding the flow and meaning of sentences. Although it is not mandatory, students aim to achieve Eiken Level 5 proficiency by graduation.
1. Why bilingual education in early childhood?
The 21st century demands individuals who can confidently speak English, making bilingualism essential. Children in this era need an environment where they naturally acquire two languages. Since 2011, Japanese elementary schools have incorporated "English activities," but research shows the optimal language learning period is up to age six. Building a multilingual foundation during this sensitive period greatly impacts a child's future. Therefore, bilingual education throughout early childhood is crucial, enabling children to learn English alongside their native Japanese.
2. What a Bilingual Environment Brings
Sensitive Period of Language Acquisition
During early childhood, children are in a sensitive period for language acquisition, making it an ideal time to learn languages naturally and enjoyably. At our kindergarten, we provide an environment where children are fully immersed in both Japanese and English.
The Golden Age of the Right Brain
Most Japanese people try to learn English using the left brain, but language should be learned with the right brain. Babies acquire their native language within about three years by using their right brain. The period up to age six, when children attend kindergarten, is the golden age for right-brain development and thus for bilingual education. Bilingual education during this period supports natural right-brain development. It has been scientifically proven that younger children have a higher ability to acquire pronunciation, which, once acquired, is retained.
English as one of many of native languages
During early childhood, auditory abilities are still developing, and not hearing certain "sounds" can make distinguishing them later difficult. This is particularly true for children raised in a monolingual environment like Japan. Daily exposure to English helps children accurately catch pronunciation and learn English naturally, similar to how they learn Japanese. Studies show that bilingual children often have superior cognitive flexibility and language comprehension compared to monolingual children. In a bilingual environment, children learn English as their own language, not just as a subject.
3. Bilingual Education Throughout All Aspects of Childcare
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Native teachers interact with students from arrival to departure, immersing them in practical English expressions.
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English lessons are conducted during the morning and afternoon, with daily phonics reading, storytelling, and balanced activities in speaking, reading, listening, and writing.
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Physical education, art, music, dance, and musical are also taught in English.
4. Goals
Age-specific goals
Age 2~3
In classes for ages 2-3, we focus on practicing vocabulary and phrases necessary for communication. During this time, students are divided into groups based on English level so that they can become more familiar with English and speak with confidence.
Acquire the basic sounds of phonics. Students learn to say the names and pronounce the sounds of the alphabet in uppercase and lowercase.
We train students on how to hold a pencil and apply the right amount of pressure. They will practice tracing the alphabet, starting with curves and straight lines, and then progress to tracing letters.
Age 3 (turning 4)
We foster the attitude and ability to actively communicate in English during overseas travel or when meeting foreigners in the city. This approach encourages children to use English confidently in real-life situations.
Students are able to read Sight Word Readers (easy story books with high frequency words) aloud.
In addition to tracing, students will also practice writing down words they know.
Age 4 (turning 5)
Students will acquire the ability to converse confidently even in an all-English environment.
Students will practice reading picture books aloud.
We instruct students to write words that they know. They start to learn basic grammar and will begin to write complete sentences.
Age 5 (turning 6)
We guide students to develop their presentation skills, enabling them to organize and express their thoughts in English based on what they have learned.
Our goal is for students to be able to read and comprehend picture books aloud by the time they start elementary school.
Students practice writing journals and letters in English.
5. Eiken Test (Test in Practical English Proficiency)
To enhance learning motivation and understand each child's progress, we regularly conduct online/offline assessments. The Eiken test is one way for the student and the parents to confirm the student's English ability.
She passed the Eiken Grade 5 exam!
Every year, the children may choose to take the Eiken test (English proficiecy test). By the time they graduate, they have the ability to pass Eiken Grade 4. We have students who passed the Grade 3 level before graduating.