What's an ALT?

An ALT is ...

ALT stands for Assistant Language Teacher. Many public elementary and junior high schools introduce English to their students through native speakers who work as assistants in the public school system. They must team teach with Japanese teachers, but are also expected to work well independently, planning their own lessons.

Several years ago, children used to start learning English from the age of 12 - junior high school 1st grade. But now some children start to learn from elementary school. ALTs play an important role in demonstrating to students how exciting it is to learn English. For many students, this will be the first time they have ever met a foreign person so ALTs have a tremendous responsibility to serve as good ambassadors of their country and of the English language. Our hope is that both the students and the teachers will enjoy this amazing opportunity for a true multicultural experience!

While there is still an important multicultural aspect to working in a Junior high school, the situation is also very different from working in an elementary school. All junior high schools have Japanese teachers for English. The curriculum is set and a textbook is used in all classes. It is the ALTs duty to work alongside these teachers to help fill out the fixed curriculum and show how English is used in everyday situations. Japanese teachers focus on grammar, reading and writing instruction, while ALTs give instruction in conversation, pronunciation and listening comprehension. It can be challenging because the schedule is demanding and it is crucial that the textbook is covered within the school year. ALTs may find that they have amazing ideas for the classroom, but that it is often difficult to carry out these ideas due to the standardized curriculum.

Introduction

In order to be a good ALT, you must be flexible, patient, outgoing, friendly, organized and creative. You must be able to work well independently, as well as with others. You must also be prepared to deal with any cross-cultural problems that may arise. You need to have a genuine interest in learning about other cultures and be willing to share yours, as an ambassador of your country. You have a huge responsibility, and on top of all that, you must TEACH! This is a demanding job and the responsibilities are many. Below you will see exactly what those responsibilities include. If you feel you have what it takes to be a great ALT please send us an application package!

ALT Responsibilities inside the Classroom

Monitoring student progress and ensuring that the school year's curriculum is followed efficiently within one year.
Team teaching with Japanese teachers. Japanese teachers will focus on grammar and writing, whereas the ALT is responsible for teaching conversation, pronunciation and phonics skills. While the areas of instruction are different, teachers must plan their lessons so that they complement each other.
Preparing well-organized and efficient lesson plans. A good 50-minute lesson usually requires one hour of planning time.
Assisting in making materials for class.
Creating interesting games, activities and projects for classes.
Attending Teacher's Meetings and ALT staff meetings. ALT meetings will be held once a month. This provides opportunity to discuss any questions regarding the curriculum, any problems you may have, and to give feedback.
Participating in curriculum development.
Participating in school clubs and extra-curricular activities.

ALT Responsibilities outside the Classroom

Being a good leader in the classroom. Teachers must maintain students' concentration and focus on the lesson, ensuring that all students have an opportunity to participate and have fun!
Ensuring lessons flow well from one activity to another.
Enforcing classroom discipline when necessary.
Giving clear instructions to students. It is crucial that students always understand what is expected of them. An ALT should do their best to make sure their instructions are understood in English first before asking for Japanese assistance.