Angelie先生のブログ
最新更新日：2012-04-09
How is English taught in the U.S?
2010-09-07
As English is our native language, students who were born and raised here already know how to speak it before we even go to school to learn. However, we were also taught how to read and write in school. Grammar was also taught in school because it doesn’t mean that we speak the language, we already understand the whole grammar rule of English. Just like any other countries, every state in the US has different dialects, although it still sounds English; the expression, slang and accent are quite different from each other. I grew up in the Midwest, so I got a different accent from that of locals of California. However, although we have different way of saying or pronouncing a certain word, we still understand each other.
We were also taught the 4-basic skill in English (writing, reading, listening and speaking) but of course not in the same way as ESL students would learn it. In addition, we have speech classes (to study pronunciation and public speaking) and literature. We learn more through interaction with others and also through our environment just like watching movies.
As a multicultural country, we also have different programs that would cater the different needs of our students. ESL students will have more chances to learn in their own pacing through enrolling themselves in an ESL program; however, those who are locals or who were born here although they are not Americans by blood, learn the usual way locals would do.
What do you think is the good point and weak point of the student in your country?
In my opinion, the best point about our American students is that they do not only focus learning from books but also from experiences and surroundings. They are very independent however; they also know how to be a good team member. Students are not afraid to interact with other students or to ask questions to their teachers. They are also very open-minded.
On the other hand, because of the modern technologies, most of our students are influenced greatly by media. Most of them do not practice the grammar rule in everyday life because more and more slang are invented by the different groups and these are more popular in the US because of music and dialogues from movies. Nevertheless, they still know when to use the formal English. In addition, not all students are focused in reaching their goals. Most of our students have part-time jobs so they are actually torn between making their own money (being independent) and studying very hard. However, there are really determined students who still excel in their studies although they also have to work at the same time.
