In this workshop-style class, students work alone and in pairs, reading and analyzing model compositions before writing their own 2-, 3- and 5-paragraph essays. An "essay" is usually a short composition, on a limited topic, written from the writer's point of view (or opinion). In English, essays are the most common written assignment, which students will be asked to complete during STAYS or for exams like EIKEN, IELTS, TOEIC S&W (Speaking & Writing) or TOEFL, so this class can be very useful.

I usually ask the students to read aloud, check unfamiliar vocabulary words and phrases, identify transitions (like "On the one hand," "In conclusion," and so on), select interesting sentence patterns, and then brainstorm, outline and write several drafts (versions) of their own essays. The students then read their work to their partner and check one another's grammar, spelling, and structure (with a checklist), before revising (correcting and rewriting) and typing the final draft.

In the photos seen here, at the end of this particular class session, two especially diligent students are still working hard even though the bell has rung and class is over! This is what I love the most about Yasuda's English department students: they are so eager to learn, and they have such a great attitude! These students are completing their assignment, which was to handwrite an outline for a 3-paragraph essay, explaining arguments "for" and "against" a topic that they chose (for example, "Should English be taught in elementary school in Japan?"). You can also see my notes on the whiteboard, which is full (and very messy!) every week. Please come and join us!

授業担当者：Taras Alexander Sak