English ability

From IkataWiki

The English ability of Ikata exchange students can vary significantly.

In Japan, English education is now required starting in the 5th grade of elementary school. This system was implemented in 2009. Until 2012, Ikata students going to Red Wing will have had about 2.5 years of English instruction. Due to the way English is taught in Japan, however, it is likely that your student will have significant difficulty understanding natural spoken English. (See speaking easy English for tips on making yourself understood.)

On the other hand, their knowledge of grammar patterns and vocabulary is often fairly good. That is why when spoken English fails, writing down what you want to say often works quite well.