Japanese for Everyone: A Functional Approach to Daily Communication

Japanese for Everyone: A Functional Approach to Daily Communication by Nagara, Susumu. paperback edition. ISBN: 9784889962345.

Originally published in 1990, this acclaimed language-instruction text is recognized as one of the most user-friendly and effective programs available both for classroom use and self-study. Emphasizing the social purpose of language, Japanese for Everyone takes the absolute beginning student to a level where he or she can communicate well in everyday situations. Now, the book has been revised and updated to reflect the way we live today, including references to currency, prices and technology, maps colloquialisms and slang. The course is divided into twenty-seven lessons. Each lesson consists of dialogues and expressions in Japanese; useful cultural information enabling students to use the language as a native speaker would; grammar and structure practice to hone the students ability to apply new material; and ample opportunities for written and oral practice. In addition, each lesson begins with a chapter from a continuing story, followed by functional explanations and exercises. Equal importance is given to the development of oral and written skills; and limited use of romaji helps the student learn hiragana and katakana faster.