Basics of spoken Japanese, with strong emphasis on immediate practical usefulness in everyday situations, and on the relationship between facets of language and those of social phenomena. Writing is introduced after some competence in spoken Japanese is acquired: the two Kana syllabaries, approximately 120 Kanji 'Sino-Japanese characters' and elementary reading are introduced. Video files are available on the web for listening comprehension and for orientation to the culture, society and people.
Computer programs are used as tools to enhance students' further acquisition of the language. The course is structured to be self-contained at this level. Partially, it is also designed for general education purposes. Therefore, the course accommodates as well students who may not continue to study Japanese at higher levels in the future.
Prerequisite: None. No previous knowledge of the language is assumed
Course Credit Exclusion: None. Prior to Fall 2009: AS/JP 1000 6.0