Welcome to Japanese Language Instruction in the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech).

Although the Department of Foreign Languages does not have a major or minor in Japanese, the following courses are offered in 2009-10:
 

Undergraduate Courses (JPN)

JPN 1105 Elementary Japanese (first semester)
This course is for true beginners and emphasizes situational conversational Japanese. In 1105, students will learn basic but useful conversational expressions, some fundamental grammar, the two sets of syllabic symbols, Hiragana and Katakana, and approximately 20 Kanji pictographs. In addition, students will be introduced to the culture and geography of Japan.


JPN 1106 Elementary Japanese (second semester)
In 1106, students will continue learning useful, everyday sentence patterns and vocabulary, and they will start to use different levels of formality. They will study more basic grammar rules, approximately 50 Kanji beyond those already learned in 1105, and work on developing their knowledge of Japanese culture. JPN 1105 or the equivalent is a prerequisite for 1106.

We anticipate being able to offer one section of 2105 and of 2106 Japanese in 2009-10.

JPN 2105 Intermediate Japanese (first semester) 2105 focuses on situational functional practice and vocabulary, with further development of grammar and culture knowledge and skills. Students will listen to authentic materials, read short passages, write short essays, and make brief oral presentations. Approximately 75 Kanji will be studied beyond those already learned in 1106. JPN 1106 or the equivalent is a prerequisite for 2105.

JPN 2106 Intermediate Japanese (second semester) In this course, students further improve their situational, functional skills in the spoken and written language, while simultaneously developing their cultural competency and ability to demonstrate language facility in unstructured situations. Approximately 75 Kanji will be studied beyond those already learned in 2105. JPN 2105 or the equivalent is a prerequisite for 2106.

Summer 2010 Offerings

JPN 3954 Study Abroad - VT in Japan (Summer Session II - 6 credits) This requires participation in preparatory meetings and a group cultural exploration with presentation prior to traveling to Japan; participation in the four-week Language and Culture program in Japan; writing journal entries while away and a post-trip reflection; and attending a final meeting and discussion session after return to the US.

NEW: Summer Study in Japan with VPI&SU

Earn six credits during second summer session on our new program to Tokyo. Click here for more information.

In our Japanese classes all four language skills are emphasized: speaking, reading, writing, and listening. For more information about the Japanese program, please contact Dr. Kirsten Jensen.

Last updated February 23, 2009