English language instruction, which is considered very important in Japan, is offered in 90 percent of all secondary schools and is studied by almost all students, even though it is an elective subject. English is considered a cultural and commercial link with the western world and has been taught in Japan since the mid-nineteenth century. Most college students use English as their required foreign language, and hundreds of thousands of Japanese people study English through private language schools, company courses, and radio and television instruction. Most elementary schools, which are municipally controlled, do not provide foreign language instruction, but some elementary school students learn English through private schools as early preparation for academic competition. Most students begin English instruction in junior high school, at age twelve. Very few alternative languages are offered. Junior high and high school courses, which are rigidly controlled, provide preparation for university entrance examinations. Private high schools offer more class hours of English than do public schools. College entrance examinations often contain substantial English portions. Universities generally require two foreign languages, with English the most popular. English teacher education emphasizes traditional curricula, not teaching methodology or language proficiency. (MSE)