Reading, writing, math and English conversation are important. Note I said English conversation, not English.

Aout time. There's only so much a book can teach people.

My God, he said something logical.

Note I said English conversation, not English

this is really stupid. and how one is going to start conversing in English? without studying English? another nonsense from Aso

I understand what he means. The japanese study English from junior high to college and still can't speak a full sentence without screwing it up.

TPOJ, I am as shocked as you are but I have to admit he got it right this time (not that the entrance exam driven system is going to change anytime soon).

Aso ain't so bad. Better than Koizumi anyway.

how one is going to start conversing in English? without studying English? another nonsense from Aso

I believe he is referring to japanese people actually starting to speak english rather than just studying it. confidence and fluency are far more important than accuracy. Maybe Aso has more rattling around in his noggin than I credired him for.

this is really stupid. and how one is going to start conversing in English?

While working in Korea for 6 years I took zero language classes and yet was quite conversant with my co-workers and neighbors before I left.

I volunteer to be a one of the students coming over to help! ;DD Pick me! where do i sign up!?

While working in Korea for 6 years I took zero language classes and yet was quite conversant with my co-workers and neighbors before I left.

Those were language classes.

The japanese study English from junior high to college and still can't speak a full sentence without screwing it up.

Sounds like fewer than 200 hours of study while 800-1000 is necessary before competence is achievable. Why are you surprised?