B2723 - LINGUA GIAPPONESE (TERZA LINGUA) III

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student will have acquired knowledge of the main morphosyntactic structures of the Japanese language and its key cultural foundations. They will be able to understand and produce both written and spoken texts, as well as manage communication of medium complexity (corresponding approximately to level A2+/B1).

Course contents

Building on the knowledge acquired in the previous two courses, Lingua Giapponese I and II, this course introduces new material through Units 11–15 of the textbook Genki: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese (third edition). Additional linguistic and cultural elements will also be presented.

Students will engage in role-play activities, listening and reading comprehension exercises, short compositions, and collaborative tasks. In-class time will focus more on active language use, while grammar explanations and the study of new kanji will be assigned as autonomous preparation at home. For reading and understanding authentic texts, students will use digital tools, with moments of reflection on the mindful use of such resources.

Through a dedicated module, students will also read simplified Japanese texts introducing key moments in Japanese history, from the Yamato Period (4th century) to the end of the Edo Period (19th century), accompanied by brief comprehension activities.

Readings/Bibliography

Textbooks

Genki I : An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese - third edition (The Japan Times)

Genki I Workbook - third edition (The Japan Times)

Materials distributed in classe

Optional references

< Dictionaries >

Il Dizionario di Giapponese - la seconda edizione (Zanichelli)

Kodansha's Furigana English-Japanese Dictionary (Kodansha)

 

< Grammar >

Kaiser, S., Ichikawa, Y. & Yamamoto, H. (2012) Japanese: A Comprehensive Grammar. (Routledge)

Kuboto, Y. (1989) Grammatica di giapponese moderno. (Libreria Editrice Cafoscarina)

Makino, S. & Tsutsui, M. (1991). Dictionary of Basic Japanese Grammar. (The Japan Times)

Mastrangelo, M., Ozawa, N. & Saito, N. (2016). Grammatica Giapponese (Hoepli)

 

Online resources

<Word dictionaries >

Jisho:http://jisho.org/

Rikaikun (Chrome extension)

Tagaini Jisho

Tangorin

WordReference

WWWJDIC

<Dictionary apps >

Cafoscari Jisho (JP-IT)

Midori (JP-EN) > iPhone

Takotobo (JP-EN) > Android

Mazii (JP-EN)

< Accent dictionary >

Online Japanese Accent Dicionary (OJAD)

Teaching methods

The course adopts an integrated approach to learning Japanese, combining activities in reading and listening comprehension, production, interaction, and linguistic reflection. Instruction is conducted primarily in Japanese and includes the use of authentic materials, digital tools for assisted reading, and collaborative classroom activities.

For the module dedicated to Japanese history, a Content-Based approach is used, promoting language learning through simplified and culturally meaningful content. Students work with the textbook Genki (third edition) and with supplementary materials provided by the instructor.

Assessment methods

Method

Final grades will be assigned based on the results of the written and oral exams. Some assignments and the midterm exam may be considered as extra credit in the determination of the final grade.

Learning evaluation scale

30-30L Excellent level. The candidate demonstrates a very high level of the knowledge of course materials and competence in using such knowledge in actual communication both spoken and written.

27-29 Above-average level. The candidate demonstrates a solid command of the required skills and competences, making only minor errors.

24– 26 Generally sound level. The candidate displays a number of shortcomings, indicating a reasonable command of the required skills and competences.

21-23 Adequate level. The candidate displays significant shortcomings and only an adequate command of the required skills and competences.

18– 20 Minim level. The candidate only meets the minimum level required and shows a minimal command of the required skills and competences.

< 18 Fail
The candidate’s does not meet the required standard and shows a wholly inadequate command of the required skills and competences.

Teaching tools

• Computer with video projector and internet connection
  
• Handouts
  
• Audiovisual materials
• Online linguistic tools
  
• Virtuale e-learning platform

Office hours

See the website of Motoko Ueyama