Preadvanced Japanese

Each chapter starts with 本文 , the Main Text, introducing the theme of the chapter and presents みんなの声 , Our Opinions, expanding on the theme. Students can copy and paste the entire text to one of the various online reading/annotation tools such as the following: http://dokkai.mit.edu/reading_student.cgi http://www.polarcloud.com/rikaichan/ http://translate.weblio.jp/ These are useful tools. It’s important to become proficient using them, for they will be most likely part of our lifelong learning of Japanese. Q: How do we learn vocabulary? 表現ノート , Notes on Expressions, provide information on selected expressions and grammar, but you will not find vocabulary lists in this textbook. This is because one list does not serve everyone. The online reading sites listed above allow students to create their own custom vocabulary lists with one click. The availability of these online tools free students from the need to flip through paper dictionaries or to enter each item in digital dictionaries. The time saved can be used to strengthen reading comprehension skills. Repetition is key to improving memory. This textbook is structured to ensure ample repetitions of key words and expressions in both the texts and the audio. Q: How do we practice speaking and listening? Functional reading requires simultaneous processing of multiple elements of language. Therefore, it’s critical that training in reading skills utilizes audio, which learners listen to and repeat. If you are not already familiar with the sound, meaning, and conversational use of the words and expressions used in the text, it’s likely that you are decoding rather than reading. Ideally, sub-vocalization should happen when reading both foreign and native language texts. Sub-vocalization helps with linguistic processing. The audio will support your learning how to vocalize, which is the prerequisite for appropriate sub vocalization. In addition, as students participate in class discussions and other activities related to their reading, vocalization skills will be reinforced, along with speaking and listening. Remember that in our everyday life, reading is usually not an end in itself. After we read, we engage in various activities: tell others about what we read, share our opinions and debate the issues, make presentations, etc. All these activities require that you be able to TALK about what you read. Each chapter has Drills on expressions and grammar, Kanji Drills, and Listening Exercises. These activities are to be performed using the accompanying audio. The