Language Center

2024 FALL JAPANESE COURSES
This 10-week semester offers our core curriculum of Japanese Courses (Levels 1 – 13). With a full span oflevels and special topic courses, beginner to advanced students can learn to speak, read, and write Japanese.
New students with no previous background in Japanese should enroll in a Level 1 course. Students with somebackground should refer to the Japanese Level Guide or course textbooks to determine the most appropriateclass.
These courses are designed for adults aged 18 and above.
For tuition, how to register, and more course details, please see further down after the course list.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Courses listed by increasing difficulty/level.

Courses are either online via Zoom or in-person at Japan Society in NYC. All times are New York time (ET).
ONLINE COURSES: To participate fully, you will need access to a device with internet, microphone, and camera(such as a laptop, smartphone, or tablet).
IN-PERSON COURSES: In the event of inclement weather or other circumstances, a class session may need tobe conducted online or on another date. By signing up for a course, you assume this risk and understand thatcircumstances may change. Please see full details under “How to Register.”JAPANESE LEVEL 1 (for students with no (or little) basic grammar knowledge in Japanese, meets once a week)
The course is designed to introduce elementary Japanese. Basic vocabulary, grammar and sentence structures
will be taught in romaji (Japanese written phonetically in the Roman alphabet) so students can carry on a simple
conversation. Hiragana and some introductory kanji will be introduced.
This course will introduce students to the following:● X wa Y desu.
● Question sentences● This/that/which● Here/there/over there/where● Verb conjugation (present tense)● Sentence particles
Required Text: Genki I, 3rd Edition (Ch. 1-3)
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

1-A

Thurs., 9/19 - 12/5

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Aoki

ONLINE(no class 9/26, 11/28)

1-BFri., 9/20 - 12/6

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Nakamura

ONLINE

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

10 classes

Date

ONLINE

4:00 - 5:50 pm ET

10 classes

Aoki

ONLINE

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

AizawaIN-PERSON

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

Kakutani

IN-PERSON

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

Sakurai

IN-PERSON

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

10 classes

Kitaura

IN-PERSON

4:00 - 5:50 pm ET

10 classes

Mori

IN-PERSON

4:00 - 5:50 pm ET

10 classes

Kakutani

IN-PERSON(no class 9/27, 11/29)
1-C

Mon., 9/16 - 12/2
(no class 9/23, 10/14)

1-D

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3
(no class 9/24, 11/26)

1-E

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3
(no class 9/24, 11/26)

1-F

Thurs., 9/19 - 12/5
(no class 9/26, 11/28)

1-GFri., 9/20 - 12/6
(no class 9/27, 11/29)

1-H

Wed., 9/18 - 12/4
(no class 9/25, 11/27)

1-JMon., 9/16 - 12/2
(no class 9/23, 10/14)

1-K

Thurs., 9/19 - 12/5
(no class 9/26, 11/28)

JAPANESE LEVEL 1&2 (for students with no (or little) basic grammar knowledge in Japanese, meets twice a
week)This fast-track course covers Levels 1 and 2 in one semester, and is designed to introduce elementary
Japanese. See Level 1 and Level 2 for descriptions of each level. Hiragana, katakana and some introductory
kanji will be introduced. Required Text: Genki I, 3rd Edition (Ch. 1-5)
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

1&2-A

Tues. & Fri., 9/17 – 12/6

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

20 classes

Shinohara

ONLINE

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

20 classes

Fujie

ONLINE

4:00 - 5:50 pm ET

20 classes

Toda

ONLINE(no class 9/24, 9/27, 11/26, 11/29)
1&2-B

Tues. & Thurs., 9/17 - 12/5
(no class 9/24, 9/26, 11/26, 11/28)

1&2-C

Tues. & Thurs., 9/17 - 12/5
(no class 9/24, 9/26, 11/26, 11/28)

JAPANESE LEVEL 2 (Prerequisite: Japanese 1 or equivalent; most importantly, students must understandhow to use the particles wa, o, de, ni, and e, and be able to make sentences such as, “I eat a sandwich at arestaurant at 1 o’clock.” For a full list of grammar patterns covered in Level 1, see Level Guide (Numbered
Levels). Recognition of hiragana is also expected.)
Students will continue to develop their beginners’ level language skills in basic Japanese as they begin to apply
the past tense and are introduced to new words, grammar, and expressions. Recognition of hiragana is expected
as less romaji will be used. Katakana and a few more kanji will be introduced.
Students will be introduced to the following:● X ga arimasu/imasu.
● Location description● Adjectives (present and past tense)● Suki (na)/ Kirai (na)● -shimashou ka
Required Text: Genki I, 3rd Edition (Ch. 4-5)
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

2-A

Wed., 9/18 - 12/4

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Shio

ONLINE

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Shio

ONLINE

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Yamaguchi

ONLINE

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

10 classes

KitauraONLINE

4:00 - 5:50 pm ET

10 classes

Shio

ONLINE

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

Kurahara

IN-PERSON

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

Nakanishi

IN-PERSON

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

10 classes

Kitaura

IN-PERSON

4:00 - 5:50 pm ET

10 classes

AizawaIN-PERSON(no class 9/25, 11/27)
2-B

Thurs., 9/19 - 12/5
(no class 9/26, 11/28)

2-C

Fri., 9/20 - 12/6
(no class 9/27, 11/29)

2-D

Thurs., 9/19 - 12/5
(no class 9/26, 11/28)

2-E

Wed., 9/18 - 12/4
(no class 9/25, 11/27)

2-F

Wed., 9/18 - 12/4
(no class 9/25, 11/27)

2-G

Thurs., 9/19 - 12/5
(no class 9/26, 11/28)

2-H

Mon., 9/16 - 12/2
(no class 9/23, 10/14)

2-J

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3
(no class 9/24, 11/26)

JAPANESE LEVEL 3 (Prerequisite: Japanese 2 or equivalent, and recognition of hiragana and some katakana isrequired as the textbook no longer uses romaji)

This course will focus on the introduction and use of the te form of verbs, and students will continue to build upon
their conversational skills and vocabulary. Required Text: Genki I, 3rd Edition (Ch. 6-7)
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

3-A

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Kobayashi

ONLINE

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Mori

ONLINE

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

10 classes

Shinohara

ONLINE

4:00 - 5:50 pm ET

10 classes

Mori

ONLINE

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

Kobuchi

IN-PERSON

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

Ogino

IN-PERSON

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

Ogino

IN-PERSON

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

10 classes

Mori

IN-PERSON(no class 9/24, 11/26)
3-B

Thurs., 9/19 - 12/5
(no class 9/26, 11/28)

3-C

Mon., 9/16 - 12/2
(no class 9/23, 10/14)

3-D

Thurs., 9/19 - 12/5
(no class 9/26, 11/28)

3-E

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3
(no class 9/24, 11/26)

3-F

Wed., 9/18 - 12/4
(no class 9/25, 11/27)

3-G

Thurs., 9/19 - 12/5
(no class 9/26, 11/28)

3-H

Wed., 9/18 - 12/4
(no class 9/25, 11/27)

JAPANESE LEVEL 3&4 (Prerequisite: Japanese 2 or equivalent, and recognition of hiragana and somekatakana is required as the textbook no longer uses romaji)

This fast-track course covers Levels 3 and 4 in one semester. It will focus on the introduction and use of the te
and nai forms of verbs, and students will continue to build upon their conversational skills and vocabulary.
Students will practice the informal speech style in the present and past tenses. The ta form will be introduced,
and students will learn to modify nouns with verbs, as well as practice phrases using to omoimasu (“I think”) andto iimasu (“he/she says”). Required Text: Genki I, 3rd Edition (Ch. 6-9)
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

3&4-A

Tues. & Fri., 9/17 – 12/6

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

20 classes

Mori

ONLINE

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

20 classes

Nakanishi

ONLINE(no class 9/24, 9/27, 11/26, 11/29)
3&4-B

Tues. & Thurs., 9/17 - 12/5
(no class 9/24, 9/26, 11/26, 11/28)

3&4-C

Mon. & Wed., 9/16 - 12/4

4:00 - 5:50 pm ET

20 classes

Toda

ONLINE

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

20 classes

Nakanishi

IN-PERSON(no class 9/23, 9/25, 10/14, 11/27)
3&4-D

Mon. & Wed., 9/16 - 12/4
(no class 9/23, 9/25, 10/14, 11/27)

JAPANESE LEVEL 4 (Prerequisite: Japanese 3 or equivalent)Students will practice the informal speech style in the present and past tenses and will learn the nai form ofverbs. The ta form will be introduced, and students will learn to modify nouns with verbs, as well as practicephrases using to omoimasu (“I think”) and to iimasu (“he/she says”). Required Text: Genki I, 3rd Edition (Ch. 8-9)
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

4-A

Mon., 9/16 - 12/2

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Shio

ONLINE

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Nakanishi

ONLINE

4:00 - 5:50 pm ET

10 classes

Yamaguchi

ONLINE

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

AizawaIN-PERSON

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

MurataIN-PERSON

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

10 classes

Kitaura

IN-PERSON(no class 9/23, 10/14)
4-BFri., 9/20 - 12/6
(no class 9/27, 11/29)

4-CFri., 9/20 - 12/6
(no class 9/27, 11/29)

4-D

Mon., 9/16 - 12/2
(no class 9/23, 10/14)

4-E

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3
(no class 9/24, 11/26)

4-F

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3
(no class 9/24, 11/26)

JAPANESE LEVEL 5 (Prerequisite: Japanese 4 or equivalent)Students will learn various usages of the ta form, and comparative sentence patterns will be introduced.
Required Text: Genki I, 3rd (Ch. 10-11).
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

5-A

Mon., 9/16 - 12/2

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Aoki

ONLINE

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Nakamura

ONLINE

4:00 - 5:50 pm ET

10 classes

Nakanishi

ONLINE(no class 9/23, 10/14)
5-B

Wed., 9/18 - 12/4
(no class 9/25, 11/27)

5-C

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3
(no class 9/24, 11/26)

5-D

Wed., 9/18 - 12/4

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

Mori

IN-PERSON

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

10 classes

Nakanishi

IN-PERSON

4:00 - 5:50 pm ET

10 classes

Mori

IN-PERSON(no class 9/25, 11/27)
5-E

Mon., 9/16 - 12/2
(no class 9/23, 10/14)

5-FWed., 9/18 - 12/4
(no class 9/25, 11/27)

JAPANESE LEVEL 5&6 (Prerequisite: Japanese 4 or equivalent)This fast-track course covers Levels 5 and 6 in one semester. Students will learn various usages of the ta form,and comparative sentence patterns will be introduced. Students will learn how to use various modifying clauses
to create complex sentences. Required Text: Genki I, 3rd Edition (Ch. 10-12), Genki II, 3rd Edition (Ch. 13-14)
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

5&6-A

Mon. & Wed., 9/16 - 12/4

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

20 classes

KitauraONLINE

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

20 classes

Kobayashi

ONLINE

4:00 - 5:50 pm ET

20 classes

Kobayashi

ONLINE(no class 9/23, 9/25, 10/14, 11/27)
5&6-B

Mon. & Thurs., 9/16 - 12/5
(no class 9/23, 9/26, 10/14, 11/28)

5&6-C

Tues. & Thurs., 9/17 - 12/5
(no class 9/24, 9/26, 11/26, 11/28)

REVIEW: GENKI I (Prerequisite: Japanese 5, or equivalent)This course is designed for students who have completed Level 5, but feel the need to review the content of the
Genki I textbook before moving up to Level 6. The course focuses on reviewing the grammar points andincreasing vocabulary so that students gain more confidence in speaking Japanese with an accurate commandof grammar. Special focus will be placed on: verb conjugation, adjective conjugation, te-form/ta-form, and naiform. Also, common mistakes in the use of particles (は、が、を、に、で、と) and expressions such as これ／
この、どの／どんな、なに／なん will be addressed. Upon completion of this course, students will be able tospeak Japanese more comfortably with a refreshed grasp of grammar. The Genki I textbook content will bereferenced, but no textbook is required.
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

Review:

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3 (no class 9/24,

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Nakanishi

ONLINE

Genki I

11/26)JLPT N5 (Prerequisite: Japanese 5 or equivalent)This course is structured to help prepare students for the N5 level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test
(JLPT), which is the standard certification exam administered by the Japanese Ministry of Education. Students
will focus on studying JLPT N5 content such as kanji, vocabulary, grammar, reading comprehension, andlistening. No textbook required.

Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

JLPT N5

Wed., 9/18 - 12/4

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Hama

ONLINE(no class 9/25, 11/27)

JAPANESE LEVEL 6 (Prerequisite: Japanese 5 or equivalent)Students will learn how to use various modifying clauses to create complex sentences. Recognition of 100 kanji
is expected.
Required Text: Genki I, (Ch. 12) (purchase of Genki I textbook not required), Genki II, 3rd Edition (Ch. 13-14)
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

6-A

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Aoki

ONLINE

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

10 classes

Yamaguchi

ONLINE

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

Kobuchi

IN-PERSON(no class 9/24, 11/26)
6-B

Fri., 9/20 - 12/6
(no class 9/27, 11/29)

6-C

Mon., 9/16 - 12/2
(no class 9/23, 10/14)

JAPANESE LEVEL 7 (Prerequisite: Japanese 6 or equivalent)Students will be introduced to the volitional form, and will learn to describe the giving and receiving of services(instead of goods). The structure for reporting hearsay (sou desu) will be practiced. The tara variation of
conditional sentence structures will be taught. Required Text: Genki II, 3rd Edition (Ch. 15-17).
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

7-A

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Nakamura

ONLINE

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

Kakutani

IN-PERSON(no class 9/24, 11/26)
7-B

Wed., 9/18 - 12/4
(no class 9/25, 11/27)

JAPANESE LEVEL 7&8 (Prerequisite: Japanese 6 or equivalent)This fast-track course covers Levels 7 and 8 in one semester. Students will be introduced to the volitional form
and will learn to describe the giving and receiving of services (instead of goods). The structure for reportinghearsay (sou desu) will be practiced. The tara variation of conditional sentence structures will be taught.
Transitive and intransitive verbs will be compared extensively, and honorific verbs will be introduced. Hazudesu(supposed to be the case) will be taught. Students will practice “extra-modest expressions” followed by “humble
expressions.” Students will also study how to include a question as a part of a longer sentence such as “Do you
know when David will go to Japan?” Required Text: Genki II, 3rd Edition (Ch. 15-20).

Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

7&8-A

Mon. & Thurs., 9/16 - 12/5

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

20 classes

Shinohara

ONLINE

4:00 - 5:50 pm ET

20 classes

Aoki

ONLINE(no class 9/23, 9/26, 10/14, 11/28)
7&8-B

Mon. & Wed., 9/16 - 12/4
(no class 9/23, 9/25, 10/14, 11/27)

JAPANESE LEVEL 8 (Prerequisite: Japanese 7 or equivalent)
Transitive and intransitive verbs will be compared extensively, and honorific verbs will be introduced. Hazudesu(supposed to be the case) will be taught. Students will practice “extra-modest expressions” followed by “humble
expressions.” Students will also study how to include a question as a part of a longer sentence such as “Do you
know when David will go to Japan?” Required Text: Genki II, 3rd Edition (Ch. 18-20).
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

8-A

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

10 classes

Shio

ONLINE

4:00 - 5:50 pm ET

10 classes

Shio

ONLINE

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

Mori

IN-PERSON(no class 9/24, 11/26)
8-B

Thurs., 9/19 - 12/5
(no class 9/26, 11/28)

8-C

Mon., 9/16 - 12/2
(no class 9/23, 10/14)

JAPANESE LEVEL 9 (Prerequisite: Japanese 8 or equivalent)This is the last level in which students learn essential grammar. Students will learn passive and causative
sentence patterns along with other expressions, such as ba, noni and temo, to achieve more effective
communication skills. Required Text: Genki II, 3rd Edition (Ch. 21-23).
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

9-A

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

KitauraONLINE

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Aoki

ONLINE

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

10 classes

Mori

ONLINE(no class 9/24, 11/26)
9-B

Wed., 9/18 - 12/4
(no class 9/25, 11/27)

9-C

Fri., 9/20 - 12/6
(no class 9/27, 11/29)

JLPT N4 (Prerequisite: Japanese 8 or equivalent)This course is structured to help prepare students for the N4 level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test
(JLPT), which is the standard certification exam administered by the Japanese Ministry of Education. This exam
encompasses simple day-to-day vocabulary, as well as hiragana, katakana, and basic kanji. This course isconducted almost entirely in Japanese. No textbook required.

Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

JLPT N4

Thurs., 9/19 - 12/5

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Hama

ONLINE(no class 9/26, 11/28)

REVIEW: GENKI II (Prerequisite: Japanese 9, or concurrently with Japanese 9, or equivalent.)
There are certain grammar points that many intermediate-level students struggle with. This course offers aguided review on these notorious grammar points, including Causative-Passive, Transitive vs. Intransitive verbs,
and Keigo. Students will be invited to dive into the mechanism as well as the psychology behind these grammar
points through drills and speaking practice. This class will help to scatter away clouds of confusion students may
have had for a long time. It will serve as a confidence booster on key grammar.
This class will reinforce students’ understanding and usage of grammar points including:●●Week 1: Particles
Week 2: Transitive vs. Intransitive●

Week 3: Conditional: 〜たら、〜と、〜ば、〜なら

●
●
●
●

Week 4: Doing a favor: 〜てあげる、〜てもらう、〜てくれる
Week 5: Passive & Causative-Passive
Week 6: Noun modifiers
Week 7: Conjecture: 〜だろう、〜かも知れない、〜らしい、〜ようだ、〜はずだ、〜みたいだ●●

Week 8: Honorifics: 尊敬語、謙譲語
Week 9 & 10: Semester Review, Q&A

The Genki II textbook content will be referenced, but no textbook is required.
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

Review: Genki II-A

Fri., 9/20 – 12/6

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Kurahara

ONLINE(no class 9/27, 11/29)

CONVERSATION & CULTURE (Prerequisite: Japanese 9, or equivalent)
The goal for this course is to develop Japanese speaking skills using essential grammar and sentences. Throughreading, watching videos, and engaging in conversation, students will further their cultural understanding ofJapan. Topics may include onomatopoeia, tea ceremony, J-pop, concept cafés, Japanese idols, seasonal events
such as ohina-sama, etc. There will also be a focus on levels of formality in spoken Japanese, where students
will participate in interactive dialogues and create their own conversations using key phrases and expressions,
including honorific speech (keigo). This course is recommended for students who have completed Level 9 or are
at Level 10 and wish to practice their Japanese skills without necessarily learning more advanced grammar
structures. This course is conducted mainly in Japanese other than grammar explanations, depending on thestudents in the class. It utilizes NHK’s Easy Japanese for Work in alternating semesters of odd and evenlessons, and this semester will cover the even lessons. No textbook required.
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

Conversation &Wed., 9/18 - 12/4

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Kobayashi

ONLINE

Culture(no class 9/25, 11/27)

Kigaru na Kaiwa (Prerequisite: Japanese 9, or equivalent)
Kigaru na Kaiwa roughly translates to “easy conversation without hesitation.” This course is recommended forstudents who wish to train their conversational skills in Japanese beyond the Genki II textbook content. Students
will practice sharing their thoughts on various topics and situations relating to the arts, food, technology, etc.,
utilizing interesting reading materials or current news. Useful conversational techniques will also be introduced,
such as あいづち(response words), ice breakers, finding common interests to talk about, and more. No textbook
required.
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

Kigaru na Kaiwa

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

10 classes

Kurahara

IN-PERSON(no class 9/24, 11/26)

JLPT N3 (Recommended for students considering Level 10, or taking with Level 10 concurrently, or equivalent)This course is structured to help prepare students for the N3 level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test
(JLPT), which is the standard certification exam administered by the Japanese Ministry of Education. This level
requires students to comprehend a higher level of written material than the N4 and N5 exams, as well as
everyday conversations spoken at near-natural speed. This course is conducted in Japanese. No textbook
required.
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

JLPT N3

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Hama

ONLINE(no class 9/24, 11/26)

Most courses higher than Level 9, including JLPT and Kanji courses, will rotate material
each semester and are therefore designed to be taken repeatedly. It is expected that students
take the same level/course multiple semesters before moving to the next level.

JAPANESE LEVEL 10 - Quartet (Prerequisite: level 9 or equivalent)
For students who have mastered basic Japanese grammar with the Genki II textbook content, Quartet is an ideal
textbook to advance to the intermediate level. It helps develop all four language skills (reading, writing, speaking, andlistening) through the study of grammar and expressions needed to communicate at the intermediate level. This course
is designed to provide students with the necessary tools to move up to Level 11.
Required Text: Quartet: Intermediate Japanese Across the Four Language Skills Textbook 1,(Part 1: Ch. 1 and mostof Ch. 2)
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

10-A: Quartet

Thurs., 9/19 - 12/5

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Nakamura

ONLINE(Part 1)(no class 9/26, 11/28)

10-B: Quartet

Mon., 9/16 - 12/2

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

Ogino

IN-PERSON(Part 1)(no class 9/23, 10/14)

JAPANESE LEVEL 10 (Prerequisite: level 9 or equivalent)Please Note: We will be phasing out these original Level 10 textbook courses over the next few semesters. We
recommend that anyone newly joining Level 10 joins the Quartet textbook courses instead (see above).
For students who feel secure with the Genki II textbook content, this class follows Level 9 in the progression fromthe Genki II textbook, continuing a formal study of Japanese grammar. More advanced grammar, vocabulary,and kanji will be introduced over several semesters. Speaking practice will also be emphasized. This course isdesigned to provide students with the necessary tools to move up to Level 11. Required Text: An Integrated
Approach to Intermediate Japanese (Revised Edition), (Part 3: Lessons 9-12)
Level 10 is offered in four parts: they can be taken in any order and each part is separate and self-contained,e.g., taking Part 1 is not necessary before Part 2. It is recommended that all four parts be taken at least once
before moving to Level 11. Click here to see the schedule of Level 10 Parts.
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

10-C (Part 3)

Mon., 9/16 - 12/2

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Nakamura

ONLINE

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Shio

ONLINE

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

10 classes

Kurahara

ONLINE(no class 9/23, 10/14)
10-D (Part 3)

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3
(no class 9/24, 11/26)

10-E (Part 3)

Fri., 9/20 - 12/6
(no class 9/27, 11/29)

SPECIAL TOPIC JAPANESE LEVEL 10: JAPAN RIGHT NOW (Recommended for students who havetaken Level 10 at least once, or equivalent)

Japan Right Now: This class will examine aspects of today’s Japanese society and culture through the latest
news. Students will read articles on NHK News Web Easy and actively discuss them. The original articles writtenwith advanced vocabulary and grammar may also be introduced. There will be listening exercises through video
clips. For a sample of course material from a previous semester, please see here. No textbook required.
This class is ideal if you want to reinforce any of the following skills:● Reading comprehension● Discussion skill● Vocabulary building● Kanji building and refresher● Listening comprehension● Learning about Japanese society
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

10-F: Japan

Thurs., 9/19 - 12/5

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

10 classes

Kurahara

ONLINE

Right Now

(no class 9/26, 11/28)

10-G: Japan

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

Kakutani

IN-PERSON

Right Now

(no class 9/24, 11/26)

JAPANESE LEVEL 11 (Prerequisite: minimum of four semesters of Japanese 10 (textbook course), or
equivalent. Recognition of approximately 500 kanji recommended.)

Looking at culture and current topics, students will use real-life sources, somewhat modified, to continue toincrease their knowledge of written and spoken Japanese. Vocabulary and common expressions will beemphasized. Students will study and discuss Japanese culture at a deeper level. For a sample of course material
from a previous semester, please see here. No textbook required.
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

11-A

Wed., 9/18 - 12/4

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

AizawaONLINE

12:00 - 1:50 pm ET

10 classes

Hama

ONLINE(no class 9/25, 11/27)
11-B

Fri., 9/20 - 12/6
(no class 9/27, 11/29)

SPECIAL TOPIC: JAPANESE LEVEL 11 (Prerequisite: minimum of four semesters of Japanese 10 (textbook
course) or equivalent)

The Art of Zatsudan: In this course, you will learn how to expand on 雑談 (zatsudan = chit chat, chatting), whichplays a crucial role in fostering positive relationships. We will cover various popular topics such as hobbies,
movies, cultural differences, current events, etc., allowing you to review and acquire vocabulary, expressions,and grammar necessary for successful zatsudan. Additionally, we will explore effective communication strategies
and appropriate language usage tailored to various relationships. This course offers an excellent opportunity forlearners seeking to enhance their conversational skills in Japanese. No textbook required.
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

11-C: The Art ofTues., 9/17 - 12/3

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

Sakurai

IN-PERSON

Zatsudan(no class 9/24, 11/26)

JLPT N2 (Prerequisite: for students at Japanese 11, or equivalent)This course is structured to help prepare students for the N2 level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test
(JLPT), which is the standard certification exam administered by the Japanese Ministry of Education. This level
requires a more complex and nuanced understanding of written materials such as newspaper and magazine
articles, as well as more advanced spoken materials such as more specific conversations and news reports.
This course is conducted in Japanese. No textbook required.
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

JLPT N2

Fri., 9/20 - 12/6

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

AizawaONLINE(no class 9/27, 11/29)

SPECIAL TOPIC: JAPANESE LEVEL 12 (Prerequisite: Japanese 11 or equivalent)
Japanese Drama: Students will watch episodes of a Japanese TV series and actively discuss the themes,
language nuances, and specific cultural references. Non-traditional aspects such as slang and regionalisms will
be analyzed in detail. This course will be conducted in Japanese. Japanese Drama this fall: TBA. No textbook
required.

Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

12-A: Japanese

Tues., 9/17 - 12/3

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Kurahara

ONLINEDrama(no class 9/24, 11/26)

12-B: JapaneseThurs., 9/19 - 12/5

6:10 - 8:00 pm ET

10 classes

Kurahara

IN-PERSONDrama(no class 9/26, 11/28)

JAPANESE LEVEL 13 (Prerequisite: Japanese 12 or equivalent, and have passed JLPT N2 or equivalentknowledge. Students should recognize at least 1,200 kanji.)

The highest level for those at near native proficiency. Looking at culture and current topics, there will be
extended discussions about current events from TV programs and articles to increase knowledge of usefuladvanced vocabulary for oral communication. Movies and dramas will be used to learn current expressions andidioms. For a sample of course material from a previous semester, please see here. No textbook required.
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

13-A

Thurs., 9/19 - 12/5

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

AizawaONLINE(no class 9/26, 11/28)

JLPT N1 (Prerequisite: Japanese 12 or equivalent)This course is structured to help prepare students for the N1 level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test
(JLPT), which is the standard certification exam administered by the Japanese Ministry of Education. This level
requires a deep understanding of written and spoken content that is abstract or logically complex. Spokenmaterial is presented at natural speed. This course is conducted in Japanese. No textbook required.
Section

Dates

Time

# of Classes

Instructor

Location

JLPT N1

Fri., 9/20 - 12/6

6:30 - 8:20 pm ET

10 classes

Kakutani

ONLINE(no class 9/27, 11/29)

TUITION
10-Class Courses
Non-members:
Members:

$360
$310

20-Class Courses
Non-members:
Members:

$600
$515

Early Registration Discount: at checkout, enter code EARLY through Wed., Aug. 21 to receive $10 off.
Japan Society Members: please log in to see the member price. To learn more about Japan Society
Membership, please visit the Membership page.
A multi-course discount (15% off for two or more 10-lesson courses for the same individual) is available. If
the discount does not appear in your cart upon adding the courses, please instead call to register at (212) 7151269. Discount is applicable among 2024 Fall Japanese Courses only.

HOW TO REGISTERClasses fill up quickly! Please register by Thurs., September 12, if possible. Seats may not be available
after this date; please check the website for registration availability or contact the office.
Late registration may be possible if seats are available (please contact the office if registering after Sept. 30).
New students with no previous background in Japanese should enroll in a Level 1 course. Students with somebackground should refer to the Japanese Level Guide or course textbooks to determine the most appropriateclass. (The Level Guide can also be found on the Language Center homepage.) There is no placement exam.
If you are still not sure of your level, it may be possible to schedule a level assessment by phone with the
Senior Director. Please email language@japansociety.org to schedule.
Registration is accepted online (preferred), by phone at (212) 715-1269 or (212) 715-1293, or in-person (pleaseinquire for hours).
Registrants will receive a Welcome Email and Zoom link from language_inquiries@japansociety.org on:
the afternoon of Friday, Sept. 13, 2024 (for classes beginning on Monday, Sept. 16)
the afternoon of Monday, Sept. 16, 2024 (for classes beginning on Tuesday, Sept. 17)
the afternoon of Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024 (for classes beginning on Wednesday, Sept. 18)
the afternoon of Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024 (for classes beginning on Thursday, Sept. 19)
the afternoon of Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024 (for classes beginning on Friday, Sept. 20)
For more information, please email us at language@japansociety.org, or call at (212) 715-1269 or (212)715-1293.

ABOUT ONLINE COURSES:
Please follow your course schedule as much as possible. If you miss a class, please review any material
you missed so that you do not fall behind in the course. Regular practice is important when learning a new
language.
In addition, if you will miss a class, it may also be possible to arrange a make-up class in a different online
or in-person section in the same semester. Ideally, this should be scheduled for the same material/class as
your missed class, but please note that options may be limited. When possible, please reach out to schedulethese in advance as slots are first come, first served. More information on how to schedule a make-up classwill be provided in the Welcome Email.
Our classes are structured to be interactive and participatory, and you will get the most out of your classes if
you can participate by both microphone and video whenever possible. We hope you will participate towhatever degree that you can, even when full engagement is not possible. Please communicate with yourinstructor about any needs/changes to your attendance and degree of participation (mic/video use ability,
missing class, etc.).

ABOUT IN-PERSON COURSES:Japan Society strongly encourages everyone entering the building to be up to date on COVID-19 vaccines,
including any boosters for which they are eligible. In-person students do not need to provide proof of vaccination
and booster.
Masks, particularly respirator-style (KN95, N95, KF94, etc.), are strongly recommended but are no longer
required. A mask can be provided at the Welcome Desk upon request.
Japan Society retains the right to cancel a class at its discretion due to inclement weather or othercircumstances. In such circumstances the office will determine the best option for replacementclass(es), which may be online or on another date. By signing up for this course, you assume this risk andunderstand that circumstances may change.
Please follow your course schedule as much as possible. If you miss a class, please review any material you
missed so that you do not fall behind in the course. Regular practice is important when learning a new language.
In addition, if you will miss a class, it may also be possible to arrange a make-up class in a different online orin-person section in the same semester. Ideally, this should be scheduled for the same material/class as yourmissed class, but please note that options may be limited. When possible, please reach out to schedule these inadvance as slots are first come, first served. More information on how to schedule a make-up class will be
provided in the Welcome Email.
Our classes are structured to be interactive and participatory. Please communicate with your instructor about any
needs/changes to your attendance and degree of participation.

PLEASE NOTE
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations are accepted until 12 pm ET on the business day before the course
begins. The Language Center’s business days are Monday – Friday, except for most federal holidays. After thisdeadline, cancellations are not accepted and tuition is not refundable or transferable for any reason (including for
credit). Upon cancellation, the tuition paid minus a service charge ($20 for courses) will be refunded.
Cancellations are only accepted via phone.
Japan Society also reserves the right to cancel any course if sufficient enrollment is not obtained. In such cases,
students already enrolled will receive full refunds (no service charge).
By registering for a course, you accept and agree to the above terms of the cancellation policy.
We do not record these classes, and recording of these classes is prohibited. If a student misses a class,it may be possible to arrange a make-up class in the same semester, if available. More information will be
provided in the Welcome Email.
If you need to switch to a different level or section after your course has begun, it may be possible pending
availability and is only possible within the same semester (e.g., within the same 10-week semester, 5-weeksemester, weekend intensive, etc.). Please contact the office.

REQUIRED TEXTBOOKS
Please do your best to have your textbook by the first day of the course.
The following textbooks are required. A limited supply of textbooks is available for purchase at the Language
Center on select days, as well as on the first day of in-person courses. Please contact the office to arrange
purchase and pick-up.
You may also purchase your book in advance from an outside vendor. Either a digital or print textbook is fine.
If your course is not listed, there is no required textbook.
Levels 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 1&2, 3&4, and 5&6:

GENKI I (An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese) 3rd Edition
published by The Japan Times
ISBN: 978-4789017305
Level 5&6 students: you will need to purchase the Genki II textbook about halfway
through the semester.
Price at Japan Society: $45

Levels 6, 7, 8, 9, 5&6, and 7&8:

GENKI II (An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese) 3rd Edition
published by The Japan Times
ISBN: 978-4789017329
Price at Japan Society: $45

Level 10 Quartet students:
Quartet: Intermediate Japanese Across the Four Language Skills
Textbook 1
published by The Japan Times
ISBN: 978-4-7890-1695-7
Price at Japan Society: $45

Level 10 (Part 3) students:
An Integrated Approach to Intermediate Japanese (Revised Edition)
published by The Japan Times
ISBN: 9784789013079
Not sold at Japan Society.

INSTRUCTORS:All of the Language Center’s instructors are native Japanese speakers with extensive teaching experience.

Yuko Aizawa has taught at the Sendagaya Japanese Institute in Tokyo, Japan and at the Royal Hawaiian Academy
in the United States. She has been an instructor at the Language Center since 1994.
Yukari Aoki holds a MA in Education and Human Development from George Washington University and in Teaching
Japanese as a Foreign Language from Oberlin University. She has taught Japanese at universities in five countries
and the Foreign Service Institute. She came to New York in 2021.
Naoko Date holds a BA in English language from Kyoto University of Foreign Studies. Since 2016, she has beenteaching eMentor Japanese language and culture courses to US Air Force personnel. For the US 2020 Census
translation in Japanese, she held the position of final editor and quality control.
Nagi Fujie holds a BA from Waseda University and an MA in Applied Linguistics as well as a Graduate Certificate inSecond Language Studies/ESL from Purdue University. She has been teaching Japanese language and culture
courses at universities in the U.S since 2016, both in physical classrooms and on online platforms. She is also theowner of Musubi Learning, LLC, in which she supports Japanese sojourner families in the U.S through language andculture education.

Keiko Hama holds a MA in Japanese Sociology and German Pedagogical Linguistics from the University of
Heidelberg. She has taught Japanese in Germany and the United States for over 25 years. She has been an instructor
at the Toyota Language Center since 2003.
Yumiko Kakutani has a BA in French Literature from Keio University in Tokyo and is a graduate of Japan Society’s
Teacher Training Program. She worked for Sakura Bank in the International Planning Division and Foreign Exchange
Division for 10 years. She has taught privately in the United States for a number of years (including JLPT and SAT II
students). She has been teaching at number of local universities including Baruch College, City College of New Yorkand Fordham University.
Momoyo Kitaura has a BA from Tokyo Woman’s Christian University. She has been a certified Oral Proficiency
Interview (OPI) tester for the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL). She passed theJapanese Language Teaching Competency test and has over 15 years of experience working at a Japanese language
school in Japan. Since 2018, she has been teaching at the Language Center. She is also a co-researcher of the
National Institute of Language and Linguistics.
Rika Kobayashi has a master’s degree in Japanese Pedagogy from Columbia University Graduate School and holds
multiple Japanese and English-language teaching licenses and qualifications. She has taught at higher educational
institutions including North Carolina State University and Berea College, and currently teaches Japanese conversation
courses as well as Japanese culture courses at Columbia-Greene Community College (SUNY), which she developed.
In Japan, she has also taught new employees and university graduates how to engage with clients using appropriate
professional manners and ways of speaking.
Mana Kobuchi grew up in Fukuoka City and began her Japanese teaching career in Tokyo. Later she moved to theUnited States and then the Netherlands, where she continued teaching Japanese. Along the way, she obtained an MA
in TESOL from SIT (School for International Training, Brattleboro, VT) and a PhD in Linguistics from the CUNY
Graduate Center. She greatly enjoys teaching Japanese, as she is fascinated by language in general and Japanese inparticular.
Kazue Kurahara received her BA at Hunter College and an MA in TESOL and Teaching Japanese as a Foreign
Language from New York University. She teaches all levels of Japanese, various workshops, and special topics
classes involving social media and pop culture. She is particularly passionate about sociolinguistics andonomatopoeia. She has taught at New York University, The New School, and Hunter College, among others. A
nature admirer, she is often seen photographing trees and plants and tending to her indoor garden. She is the
scriptwriter and host of Japan Society’s YouTube series "Uki Uki NihonGO! + Culture."
Yumi Mori has a bachelor’s degree in Law from Sophia University in Tokyo. She is a graduate of Japan Society’s
Teacher Training Program. She has taught privately in the United States for a number of years.
Kaori Murata received her BA in Linguistics from the University of Tsukuba and MA degree from New York
University. She studied at Tisch School of Arts focusing on Cinema Studies, and Interactive Media. She studied
Mandarin for 2 years in Shanghai. This experience sparked a multicultural language passion. She has experience ofteaching Japanese to students of all levels.
Mari Nakamura has an MA in Linguistics from The Ohio State University and has taught Japanese for 25 years atuniversities including CUNY, Harvard, Indiana University, and the University of Maryland. She has also taught atseveral Fortune 500 Corporations. She has been teaching at Japan Society since 2015.
Mami Nakanishi has a BA in Literature from Sophia University in Tokyo. She is a graduate of Japan Society’s
Teacher Training Program and has been on Japan Society’s teaching staff since the summer of 2010. She has taught
Japanese privately and in schools including Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School and Tribeca Language.
Kenko Ogino holds a BA in English Literature from Atomi Gakuen Women’s University, an MA in Education fromNew York University, and an MA in Japanese Pedagogy from Columbia University. She has been teaching Japaneseprivately for individual students, companies, and the Center for International Foreign Language Teacher Education(CIFLTE) Module Course at Teachers College, Columbia University and New York University.
Yoko Sakurai holds an MA in Applied Linguistics and Teaching Japanese as a Foreign Language from Ochanomizu
University in Tokyo. She brings over a decade of experience as a Japanese lecturer across NYC. Formerly as aprincipal lecturer at The Japan Foundation New York, she developed courses integrating Can-Do Statements.
Presently, she teaches at The City University of New York and Fordham University. She presents regularly at major
language pedagogy conferences in North America. Beyond academia, she enjoys composing haiku poetry. She hasreceived several awards at the Ito-En North America New Haiku Grand Prix.
Kaoru Shinohara holds a BA in Literature from Waseda University and a BA from Soka University through their
Japanese Language Teacher Training Course in Education. She is a graduate of Japan Society’s Teacher Training
Program. She has been teaching Japanese to youth at Japan Society and tutoring at New York University.
Atsuko Shio has a BS in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Hoshi University in Tokyo. She has over 12 years ofexperience working in Product Management and in Sales at Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. She is a graduate ofJapan Society’s Teacher Training Program and has been teaching at the Language Center since September 2016.
Kana Toda holds a BA from Meiji University, and an MA in Japanese Pedagogy from Columbia University. She taught
English at junior and senior high school in Nagasaki, Japan for 8 years. In America, she was a web-based JapaneseEnglish translator for 8 years. She has taught Japanese at Rochester Institute of Technology and University ofCalifornia, Santa Barbara.
Yukie Yamaguchi has a BA in Foreign Languages (specializing in English) from Bukkyo University in Kyoto and holds
an instructor certification from the World Japanese Centre, Australia. She has been teaching English in Japan and theUnited States since 1997, most recently at Baruch College, Brooklyn College, and teaching English online.