Argument Essay

Let’s Be International

Japan would be a more international country, if the Early Childhood English Education System (ECEE) was introduced. The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology mentioned that English should be a compulsory subject in elementary schools. They are planning to introduce the system to 5th and 6th grade elementary school students from 2009. Actually 94% of the public elementary schools already started to teach English to Children. The Early Childhood English Education System should be introduced in elementary schools.
First, English is necessary in the world to communicate with people. It is regarded as the international common language these days. More and more people study and use English all over the world. For example, about one-third of the world people have learned English because of the influences of American TV or the Internet. Actually, English is used in between 80% to 90% of websites worldwide. Also, other Asian countries consider English as an international Language too. For example, people in Singapore use English as their common language even though 80% of them are Chinese. Also, Taiwan government already introduced the ECEE system in 1998. At that time ECEE system was intended for 5th and 6th grade students. Yet, from September in 2004, some of the cities started to introduce the system to the entire grade of students. So, more people will be able to express their thoughts or opinions in English in the world.
Second, young children are able to absorb more knowledge than adults. They are good language learners, especially 9 to 12 years old children can accept the sounds itself very smoothly, so they would master natural English pronunciation. They can also understand English grammar more fluently than junior high school children who hesitate to use English because they are afraid of making mistakes. Furthermore, younger children can enjoy learning and using the new language. So, elementary school students should be taught English in elementary school.
Third, learning English will firmly help Japan be a more international country. Japanese people can’t say their opinions clearly at global meetings. However, if I mastered English, I would be able to make myself understood to non-Japanese people. Then I could let them know what Japanese people’s way of thinking is like and even what Japan is like. Consequently, I would be able to protect Japanese culture and survive in the international world, and Japan can truly be an international country.
I think the ECEE system is very important for Japanese people to catch up with globalization. Not only in western countries but also in Asian countries, English is necessary. Children have potential ability that adults can’t predict. The sooner, the better. So, the Early Childhood English Education System should be introduced in elementary schools. Thanks to the introduction of this system, I am sure that Japan will be a more internationalized country in the future.