A user-friendly book that works equally well in a classroom setting or as a self-study text, Basic Japanese takes a different approach from other language books, emphasizing the structure of the language rather than vocabulary. By focusing on sentence patterns as the key to attaining a basic competence in Japanese, it offers a comprehensive introduction to the modern colloquial language.
Each lesson is set up to ease learners into not just understanding new material but mastering it, using a four-step method:
Step 1: Basic Sentences: Each lesson begins with the key to quick mastery of spoken Japanese—learning and understanding new sentence patterns. Vocabulary is learned in context. A Basic Vocabulary section lists only essential words and phrases that are relevant to the theme of the lesson.
Step 2: Structure Notes: Next the learner is guided through complete, in-depth explanations of the sentences' grammar essentials, to aid in mastering the sentence patterns.
Step 3: Conversation: Authentic dialogue teaches the way people naturally speak, putting into practice the lesson's sentence patterns with common, everyday topics.
Step 4: Exercises: An opportunity for practicing—and for strengthening your understanding of the lesson's key points.
Accomplished teacher Eriko Sato has produced an excellent revision of Samuel Martin's classic text for the classroom and self-learners, while remaining true to Martin's voice and teaching style. Together they make the challenge of learning Japanese at once manageable, practical, and fun.