Speaking Test – How to do it safely

Thankfully the number of covid cases are dwindling. However, we should still be cautious when conduction speaking tests in Japan. Here are some ways to prioritize the safety of your students and yourself.

Masks

This should be a no-brainer at this point, but wear your mask! Make sure it properly covers your nose. If your students have been lax on mask protocol, please ask your JTE to stress to your students to wear theirs properly. Both disposable masks and reusable material masks are effective in preventing the spread of viruses. If you’re feeling extra cautious, wear two.

Social Distance

Set up chairs for you and your students. Set an acceptable distance between the two of you. Placing a desk or two between can also create a physical barrier to prevent them from moving any closer. Some schools may also have clear barriers that are used for technology or art classes. Consult your teacher to see if you can procure one for the tests if you are worried.

Unfortunately, a clear plastic barrier may make it harder for both of you to hear. Speak at an appropriate volume and clearly. This may be difficult for shy students who already struggle with speaking loudly. Please be patient with them.

Additionally, some teachers will send several students at a time to wait outside the test area. Communicate with your JTE beforehand about any concerns you may have over this. If you can set up chairs at an appropriate distance for these students to wait in, this will also help.

Sanitize

Use hand sanitizer or disinfectant as much as you can. This may be particularly tricky when you’re trying to conduct thirty-six tests within forty minutes. At a bare minimum, thoroughly wash your hands and use hand sanitizer between classes.

When you’re done with the tests, be sure to also disinfect the seat area and materials that you used.

Time

The time allotted for each individual test may vary from teacher to teacher and JTE to JTE. It is important under pandemic restrictions to try and advocate for shorter individual test times when at all possible. Try to limit each student’s test to as short as possible. Be sure that this is clearly communicated to the students ahead of time.

Ventilation

Tests should be conducted in a room with airflow. Keep windows open when possible. With winter coming, this may be uncomfortable, but safety should always come first. Bundle up and use hand warmers when possible and appropriate. If the testing room has a AC unit, ask your teacher about if you can to use it for the comfort of yourself and the students.

If you have other concerns, it’s important to discuss it directly with your JTE. The health of your students and yourself is of the top priority and should not be taken lightly. Let’s ensure that they are as safe and comfortable as possible for our students!

Author – L.F – Fujimino ALT 

Learn more about teaching English and why it is one of the best jobs for foreigners in Japan.