Course Overview: Elementary Japanese Listening and Speaking B

Welcome to the Elementary Japanese Listening and Speaking B course. This program is designed for learners who have already mastered the foundational aspects of the Japanese language and are ready to transition toward more nuanced communication and expanded auditory comprehension.

Course Objectives

The primary focus of this course is to bridge the gap between structured classroom learning and real-world application. By the end of this semester, students will be expected to:

• Understand natural-speed spoken Japanese in common daily contexts.
• Express personal opinions, preferences, and feelings with greater grammatical accuracy.
• Participate in sustained conversations regarding social events, travel, and personal history.
• Master essential honorific nuances (Keigo) suitable for routine social interactions.

Core Curriculum Areas

Listening Comprehension

Listening B moves beyond simple textbook audio. Students will engage with podcasts, authentic news snippets, and interview recordings. The goal is to identify main ideas and supporting details without relying on word-for-word translation. We introduce the concept of "shadowing," where students mimic the rhythm, intonation, and cadence of native speakers to improve their own prosody.

Speaking and Oral Production

Speaking drills focus on expanding sentence structures. Instead of relying on short, simple sentences, students will learn to connect thoughts using conjunctions and subordinate clauses. Interactive activities include:

• Role-Playing: Simulating scenarios such as visiting a doctor, making reservations, or navigating public transportation.
• Speech Presentation: Delivering short, structured speeches about a topic of personal interest.
• Pair Discussion: Engaging in spontaneous debates on everyday topics to build confidence and fluency.

Language Nuance and Cultural Context

Language is inseparable from culture. In Listening and Speaking B, we dedicate time to discussing the cultural context of speech. This includes the appropriate use of "aizuchi" (listener feedback cues like "sou desu ne") which are vital for maintaining flow in a Japanese conversation. We also explore the importance of context and implicit meaning, helping students read between the lines when a native speaker is being indirect.

Assessment Criteria

Assessment is continuous and performance-based:

• Participation (30%): Daily engagement in classroom discussions and pair work.
• Mid-term Oral Exam (20%): A one-on-one interview with the instructor assessing speaking fluency.
• Listening Quizzes (20%): Periodic tests based on audio material covered in class.
• Final Project (30%): A recorded dialogue or presentation reflecting the cumulative skills acquired throughout the term.

Tips for Success

To excel in this course, consistent practice is essential. Immersioneven at a beginner levelis the fastest way to progress. We encourage students to listen to Japanese media in their free time, even if they only catch a few words. The objective is to train the ear to recognize the musicality of the language rather than focusing solely on vocabulary recognition.