In the regular English class for 9th-grade students, we utilized the time after final exams to conduct an exchange activity with international students currently enrolled in the high school division of our school.

About the Proficiency-based Class Grouping

Our junior high school English classes are organized into proficiency-based groups to match each student’s level. These include the Regular Class, for students beginning English study upon entering junior high; the A3 Class, for those entering with a proficiency roughly equivalent to Eiken Grade 3; and the A1 Class, for students with higher English proficiency.

This exchange activity was conducted specifically for students in the Regular Class, who began studying English after entering junior high.

Details of the Activity

During the activity, groups of about 15 to 20 students welcomed 5 to 7 international students. Groups were formed with 2 to 3 students and 1 international student each, encouraging students to actively engage in English conversations.

Students gave presentations on their "recommended travel destinations," a topic they had been working on during the second term. International students shared about their home countries and cultures. There were also many opportunities for students to ask original questions in English directly to the guests.

The exchange took place in a rotation format, with international students switching groups every 10 minutes. This allowed students to interact with several international students from different countries. While many were nervous at first, they gradually relaxed and began speaking more naturally and confidently as the session progressed.

International Exchange Unique to Our School

Thanks to the presence of long-term international students from around the world, this was a valuable opportunity for real-life communication beyond the textbook. The experience appeared to give students a great deal of confidence in using English.

We will continue to value such experiences where students can not only "learn English" but also "enjoy using English" through authentic interactions.

The international students who participated are long-term enrollees at our school and wore the official high school uniforms.