Embracing the Challenge: Activities for Developing Participation in the Efl Classroom

A common complaint heard from English teachers in Japan is that their students are unwilling to participate actively in class due in large measure to fears surrounding mistakes.Over time, I have devised numerous activities designed to promote a more positive and participatory mindset in class.These activities are based on three fundamental principles: English is a set of skills that can be improved through practice; mental tools exist that will allow students to participate in class without requiring them to completely eradicate their fears; and a more accepting and positive approach to mistakes is necessary for success.This article discusses three specific activities that were introduced into the classroom in an effort to promote this mindset and to achieve more active participation from students.Student reflection journals and survey results are analysed in order to discuss the validity of these principles and the success of their application.