In this 10-week online course, students will progress to the level of Beginner in the Japanese language and learn basic Japanese writing. This class focuses primarily on speaking and listening skills. However, learners will learn the first Japanese alphabet (of 3), Hiragana.

Class members will meet 1 time per week. Each weekly meeting will be held lecture-style, with plentiful interaction and prompts to practice speaking aloud. I will ask students to "repeat after me" for each new word or phrase. We will also practice using new words and phrases in sentences or conversation settings. Each class will include 5-10 minutes of writing practice. Between meetings, students are encouraged to practice their Japanese on their own to improve their skills. Students are assigned a short assignment to complete between classes. This assignment will either involve submitting a short video of the learner practicing phrases or a short writing assignment. A handout will be provided after each meeting listing the new phrases that were covered. Throughout the class, students are encouraged ask questions about Japanese culture and lifestyle.

Please reference the class syllabus for information about the course curriculum.

This class is designed for beginners, which includes students with little or no prior experience in learning Japanese.

I am happy to answer any specific questions regarding class structure, teaching style, or curriculum coverage.