Japanese 4th Grader Passes Top Level English Proficiency Test

 

Erina Honda, a fourth grader in Fujikawaguchi, Yamanashi Prefecture passed Grade 1 (top level) of the Eiken English language proficiency test, a level regarded as the equivalent to advanced university English. 

She said that learning English had never felt like a burden. Her mother said since early childhood Erina thought “English is fun”. Her mother said the girl was introduced to English at age two, through English picture books and Disney songs. Neither of her parents are particularly good at English, but they thought it may be good for children to be exposed to English from an early age. 

From her first year of kindergarten, she began with a picture book series containing short English sentences. Her mother read aloud to her and she borrowed additional books from the library. Erina became immersed in reading. By her final year of kindergarten, she was reading full length books such as Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. At this time she took and passed Eiken Grade 3 for the first time. 

She continued to build her vocabulary and grammar skills through reading books, including Harry Potter books in the original English in Second Grade. 

When she was in Fourth Grade, she took the Eiken 1 for the first time, but didn’t pass, partly because she didn’t have the stamina for the long test. In August, she attempted to climb Mt. Fuji and reached the summit. Erina said by reaching the top of the highest mountain, she could conquer other barriers. 

She took the Eiken 1 test again and passed. She continues to improve and is expanding her dreams. She wants to become an international lawyer and use her English skills. I am in awe of this little girl and wish her all the best in the future. 

(Eiken is Japan’s most popular English proficiency test).