Global Learning Through English

At KGM, English is not a “subject” but a “power to live”. English is a daily “tool” for businesses and various fields used by approximately 25% of the world’s population. From a global perspective, it is not only required to be able to use it in real life after graduating, but it has become one of the most indispensable skills that must be acquired. In this global society where we live, English is also an international language in business and science, namely “Linga Franca” (common language). If you have English as a tool, your future options will expand dramatically.
To prepare for the arrival of a multilingual society, KGM has launched a course, Global Learning Through English (GLE) for 4th year students to expand their possibilities of going to universities abroad. Prior to that, we started the SELF START program for the GLE course for 3rd year students in 2018.

GLE

What is the GLE course?

The Global Learning through English (GLE) course is based on the concept of the “SELF (Success and Empowerment in the Lingua Franca)” program. It is a multi-year program which has different goals depending on the year. Its goal is to nurture students in order for them to attend domestic and overseas universities where lectures are given in English.

SELF
Success “Success” is different for each person. Some people have high status and rich economic power, others have warm family and friends. Without a doubt, the ability to communicate with people around the world will bring you closer to the success you envision.
Empowerment “Empowerment” means increasing self-fulfillment. If you improve your ability to use English, not only will you be able to connect with people around the world, but you will also be able to expand your potential throughout the world.
Lingua Franca “Linga Franca” is a common language used by people with different native languages. In modern times, English is the key to an unknown society. English is increasingly valued as a means of communication.

GLE course flow

3rdyear
pre -GLE
SELF START ( self – start program)
  • Regular classes (6 hours per week) + 2 hours
    1. 1. Writing for communication
    2. 2. English in the world
  • Off-campus training
4thyear
SELF ADVANCE (Self Advance Program)
  • Complete regular English classes (7 hours per week)
  • IELTS course
  • Various learning and activities across different topics
  • Supplementary classes for students starting in the 4th year
5thyear
SELF EXCEL ( self – excel program)
  • Complete regular English classes (8 hours per week)
  • IELTS course
  • Various learning and activities across subjects
  • Practical English composition exercise
  • Examination of various topics
6thyear
SELF EXCEL
  • Acquire the basics of English and prepare for advancement to universities in Japan and overseas
Short-Term/
Long-Term
Study
Abroad
  • Participate in short-term / long-term overseas study (more than once) between grades 3 and 5
    Example: Studying in Australia / Term
    Long -term studying in New Zealand
    Cebu language training 8-week course, etc.
  • Scholarships depending on the Eiken scores

What is the SELF START program (Pre-GLE)?

This is the start program for the 3rd year in preparation for the 4th year GLE course. In addition to regular English classes (6 hours per week), students will learn about “writing for communication” and “English in the world”. Only students who have passed Level PRE 2 or higher at the end of the second year can participate in this pre-GLE course. In 2018, 24 students are studying in this course.

Pre
Pre

Writing for communication

Using the text “Weaving it Together”, you will learn the skills necessary for writing from the basics and acquire the ability to think critically on various problems in the world. The text, like “TIME ZONES”, also contain the latest topics provided by National Geographic, which stimulates students’ interests.

1st semester
  • Learn how to write papers using various grammatical expressions
  • Learn how to write various forms of essays
2nd semester
  • Learn about cultural events and other things in Japan and other countries
  • Acquire the writing techniques necessary for writing an essay
3rd semester
  • Write a short paper

English in the world

Learn about how English is used as an international language and lingua franca by looking at English used by non-native speakers.
“I feel the importance of communicating in English in a global environment draws out my desire to acquire English expression skills. This reminds me of the gap between what I want to say and what I can say.”

2nd semester
  • An overview of the history from the birth of English to its current state
  • Learn that there is a wide variety of “English” in the world
  • Searching for common points and differences in “English in the world” from accents and pronunciation
  • Learn how English is used in the world through pop culture
3rd semester
  • Learn how people with different native languages use English
  • Learn how English is used “wrongly” but “effectively” in a global environment
  • Learn to use English to communicate in a global environment
  • Think about the differences between English spoken by Japanese and English spoken in other countries
  • Have the opportunity to talk with people around the world
  • Make a speech about “English and Me Relationship”
Sean Patterson

English Department Deputy Director
Sean Patterson

I am in charge of creating the English curriculum. We introduced a new educational method, CLIL, in 2015. Three years have passed since the introduction, and I feel that students’ English has improved and that more and more students are starting to think globally. Of course, even if you go on to a university in Japan, it goes without saying that having a high level of English is an overwhelming advantage. Japan will certainly have many new industries within 10 years, and the globalization of the working environment will expand. What kind of power should children have at that time? The GLE course provides learning from this perspective.