Hello there! In this week’s newsletter, I’d like to talk about learning real English.
Missing Motivation
I gave up learning Japanese a long time ago. My excuse (reason) was that I already knew enough for daily living. The thing is (actually), my daily life in Japan doesn’t need much Japanese – I work at home and I teach English.
Finding Motivation
When my brother came to visit me, followed by an old school friend, I was able to get out of the house and actually use Japanese. I realized that I have a LOT to learn!
Communicating with the locals ๐
Real-World Learning
I could do more Duolingo lessons, work through a textbook, or even watch more Netflix in Japanese, but the absolute (100%) best way to learn a language is to live it.
What I need is a job, a real job, working in an environment that will push me to learn essential (necessary) Japanese.
So next week, I’m going to go to the local job centre to find some part-time work. Anything will do. I don’t mind washing dishes in a kitchen, or making beds in a hotel. Anything that immerses (covers) me in the language.
What about English?
Of course, the biggest challenge for English learners not living in an English-speaking country is finding people to talk in English with.
That is certainly a problem. Here are 10 part-time job suggestions from ChatGPT:
Retail Assistant in Tourist Areas: Basic conversational skills are often sufficient to assist customers and handle transactions.
Waitstaff at International Restaurants: Basic to intermediate English is usually needed to take orders and communicate with customers.
Barista in Coffee Shops Frequented by Expats: Basic to intermediate English proficiency can suffice for taking orders and casual conversation.
Tour Guide: Intermediate English skills are necessary to explain attractions and engage with tourists.
Hotel Receptionist: Intermediate to upper-intermediate English is needed to handle check-ins, answer questions, and resolve guest issues.
Working at International Events: Intermediate to upper-intermediate English proficiency is required to assist and guide international visitors.
Teaching Assistant in English Schools: Upper-intermediate English is usually needed to support teachers and interact with students in an educational setting.
Call Centre Agent for International Companies: Upper-intermediate to advanced English skills are necessary for handling customer inquiries and providing support over the phone.
Customer Service Representative for International Companies: Upper-intermediate to advanced English is required to communicate effectively with English-speaking clients and customers.
Translator or Interpreter: Advanced English proficiency is essential for accurately translating and interpreting between languages in a professional context.
Additional Benefits
In my case, getting a part-time job is more than just a chance to improve my Japanese. I hope to integrate (fit) into Japanese society, become more familiar with workplace customs and gain experience that will help me when I apply for Japanese citizenship in the future. I might even make some new friends!
British English
Here are some common phrases that are used to describe surrounding yourself in English:
- Throwing yourself in at the deep end: Jumping fully into learning English without much prior preparation.
- Diving headfirst into English
- Submerged in the language
- Total immersion
- Living and breathing English
- Full-on language experience
Notice the “water” theme? The deep-end of a swimming pool, diving, submerged (underwater). Just be careful not to drown! ๐
New Worksheets and Videos
Before I finish my cup of tea, I want to show you what I’ve made since the last newsletter:
Videos:
- Eiken Interview Practiceย โย Challenge 1: Eiken pre-1 Interview Test
Worksheets:
- Eiken Interview: Eiken Pre-1: Online Business
- News: More and more Americans lying on job resumes
- True Story: Denmark’s surprise win at Euro ’92
Private Lessons
You might be surprised, but since I started offering private lessons, I’ve had no requests at all. ๐ฅ I think time zones, lesson fees, and my lack of availability are the reasons. Oh well.
Facebook Group
Our Nick’s English Group on Facebook has doubled in membership in just one week! Amazing! ๐ We now have 118 members. Please check it out if you haven’t already.
Behind the Scenes
It’s really hot in Japan now. Today was 37 degrees in my area and soooo humid! The heat makes me feel tired, but I will try my best to make a new Speaking video this week. Fingers crossed!
Learning Chinese!
I’m going back to review the earlier lessons. I think reviewing the basics is really important when learning a language. You’ll never be fluent if you can’t master the basics, don’t you agree?
Wrap-up
And that’s it! Thank you for joining me for tea! If you’re enjoying my blog and would like to get new posts in your email, please subscribe. If you have friends who might like these posts, please share this link with them. I really appreciate it!
All the best,
Nick
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