Interview: Maverick English teacher with a Tiktok following Part 2

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Category: Human Interest

Listening

Unlocking Word Meanings

Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

  1. stem from (something) / stɛm frəm / (phrasal v.) – to be caused by something
    Example:

    Sickness often stems from a lack of proper nutrition.


  2. underappreciated / ˌʌndɚrəˈpriːʃiˌeɪ təd / (adj.) – not valued enough or given importance
    Example:

    Some service staff members feel underappreciated because they work hard but don’t get paid enough.


  3. (something)-cum-(something) / kʊm / (prep.) – and; at the same time
    Example:

    Serena is an actress-cum-model.


  4. savor / ˈseɪ vər / (v.) – to enjoy something by experiencing it slowly
    Example:

    I’m savoring the last few days I have with my best friend. He’ll move to the US next week.


  5. applause / əˈplɔz / (n.) – a show of appreciation or enjoyment by clapping
    Example:

    The singer received a loud applause from the audience at the end of her concert.


Article

Read the text below.

Continued from Part 1…


His motivation stems from a desire to change the Japanese education system in a way that will benefit both teachers and students.


“Right now, public school teachers are underappreciated by society and their students while being overwhelmed by their workloads. I’m convinced that it doesn’t have to be this way.”


Currently, Tateishi teaches English at a Tokyo metropolitan high school while his TikTok videos have launched him on the fast track to English educator-cum-rock star.


“Kids today will not be motivated to study unless they understand the how, what and why of studying English. In other words, teachers must take a more systematic approach and explain to their classes how exactly their teaching methods work and the effect this will have on the students’ grades.”


English speaking (and teaching) still has a long way to go in Japan, but Tateishi is hopeful. He endorses a method called yoshuku, which means celebrating in advance.


“Athletes use this method before their competitions. Picture in your mind the celebrations you’ll savor once you’ve reached a specific goal. For athletes, this could mean the applause and the cheers. Having a celebratory scenario can make all the difference in your motivation levels.” (Kaori Shoji)


This article was provided by The Japan Times Alpha.


Viewpoint Discussion

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.

Discussion A

  • Tateishi said that public school teachers are underappreciated by society and overwhelmed by their workloads. Do you think this is true? If yes, why do you think some people still pursue teaching? Discuss.
  • Tateishi’s motivation to teach stems from a desire to change the Japanese education system in a way that will benefit both teachers and students. In your opinion, what kind of changes in the system should be implemented (ex. higher pay for teachers, modern methods of teaching)? Why? Discuss.

Discussion B

  • Tateishi endorses a technique called yoshuku, which means “celebrating in advance” to keep his students motivated. He said having a celebratory scenario can make all the difference in your motivation levels. Do you agree with this philosophy? Would you ever try this method to keep yourself motivated? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • How do you usually keep yourself motivated when trying to achieve a goal? What factors cause your motivation to go down (ex. stress, difficult people)? Discuss.