HOW MANY? WHAT COLOUR?

Incidental Use of Language

Incidental use of English, both inside and outside of formal English classes, is one of the best ways to encourage students to start using English to communicate. By incidental use I mean use of English outside of the set topics and activities.

Incidental English includes so-called classroom English (commands), as well as comments, praise, and simple questions. By exposing students to incidental English we can provide them with examples of how to communicate naturally.

Examples of incidental English

• when introducing new vocabulary using flashcards, ask the students simple questions about them, such as "what colour is this?", "do you like this?", "what country is this from?", etc. Even if students are initially unfamiliar with the questions, with repeated exposure they will learn how to answer and eventually ask the questions, all outside of formal activities. This method of learning is very effective, as the students learn the real context in which the language is used.

• by using English accompanied by gestures to issue classroom commands and praise students will understand what is required of them from the gesture as well as remembering the Engish through repetition.

• by giving hints and making comments about things in the classroom you can widen the range of English students are exposed to, without putting them under any obligation to remember it. In this way, students who are more able will learn extra vocabulary and expressions, while less able students will not feel threatened if they can't pick things up as quickly.

• once students are familiar with the [how are you?] activity, it can be used whenever you see them outside of class as a greeting and a way of connecting with the students.

One important caveat

It is essential to make incidental English understandable to the students, either from context, gestures, or even explanation in Japanese. It will be necessary to modify both the speed and the content of what you say. Merely speaking incomprehensible English at the students will frustrate and eventually alienate them, and will result in them ceasing to try to understand. Watch your students. If they are paying attention and can follow you when you are speaking English, great. In they cannot follow then simplify and provide context, gestures, or explanation.