The Role of English in Comprehensive Studies Classes at Public Elementary Schools in Japan

We are of the opinion that focusing on teaching international understanding systematically through English during comprehensive studies would be very difficult, if not impossible. International understanding is such a complex area that not many experts could suggest any definitive ways to teach it systematically at this present moment. Besides, aims of comprehensive studies include the development of students' ability to find and solve tasks for themselves by using knowledge and skills acquired in various subjects. Most third graders, who are expected to start the studies, have no previous knowledge of English in the first place. It is obvious that we could not expect them to engage in any meaningful problem solving activities through English. The main objective of teaching English during comprehensive studies over four years at public elementary schools in Japan, therefore, should be to promote practical communication abilities in English, oral skills in particular, through a systematic program. The program preferably should incorporate instruction in awareness of international understanding and should not preclude instruction in literacy, reading in particular. It is expected that if students are encouraged to develop the ability to communicate in basic oral English, they will become more and more willing to take initiative to make use of acquired knowledge and skills from all subjects and to engage in some simple intercultural activities