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 courses, Japanese Language I and II, this course introduces new content through Units 11–14 of the textbook Genki: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese (Third Edition). Additional linguistic and cultural topics will also be covered.
Students will engage in role-playing activities, listening and reading comprehension exercises, short writing assignments, and collaborative learning activities. Class time will place greater emphasis on the active use of the language, while selected grammar explanations and the study of new kanji will be assigned for independent study outside the classroom. Digital tools will be used to support the reading and comprehension of authentic texts, accompanied by opportunities to reflect on their effective and responsible use.
Through a dedicated module, students will also read simplified Japanese texts introducing key periods in Japanese history, from the Yamato period (4th century) to the end of the Edo period (19th century), accompanied by brief comprehension activities.
Please note: The accompanying Japanese Language Practice (Third Language) III classes, taught by Professor X, are offered only during the second semester to support students' learning.
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)
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.
Attendance is not mandatory; however, students are strongly encouraged to attend classes regularly.
Students with specific learning difficulties (SpLD) or with disabilities that can affect their ability to attend courses are invited to contact the University service for students with disabilities and SLD at the earliest opportunity -- ideally before the start of the course: https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students. The University service will suggest possible adjustments to the course work and/or exam, which must then be submitted to the course leader so they can assess their feasibility, in line with the learning objectives of the course. Please note that adjustments to the exam must be requested at least two weeks in advance.
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.
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