Andy Lawson
NIC International College in Japan
Andrew J. Lawson is an instructor on NIC International College in Japan's intensive one-year EAP program to prepare Japanese students for entry into undergraduate programs around the world. He holds an MA in TESOL from the University of Birmingham and an MA in English and Politics from the University of Glasgow. His research interests include notetaking, the pragmatic expression of disagreement, and vocabulary acquisition. alawson@nicuc.ac.jp
Sessions
Expressing Disagreement in Different Communities
This presentation examines results of a study into Japanese college students’ expressions of disagreement in informal English-language contexts, and how they compare with those of native English speakers. It goes on to consider ways in which ESL teachers can help students develop their pragmatic discussion skills, and build the confidence which will allow them to share their opinions honestly, but in a manner appropriate for the situation.