language courses

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Japanese Language Classes Online for Adults & Kids Across the U.S.

A Structured Lifelong Learning Program

At JASGA, we offer a clear, step-by-step Japanese learning pathway for youth and adults - from beginner to advanced.

Whether you’re just starting or continuing your studies, our supportive program helps you build real skills with confidence.

Learn Japanese online from anywhere in the USA.

Logo for Nihon Go! Japanese language program, featuring a Mount Fuji illustration, a Torii gate, and cherry blossoms, with text in English and Japanese.

Kids’ Summer Japanese: Learn to Read Manga

  • Instructor: Utsunomiya-sensei

    Click here to enroll: Youth Manga Club

    Beginner. Learn Hiragana and start learning how to read a manga called “Yotsuba&! “ or Yotsubato.

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yotsuba%26!

    Join the JASGA Youth Academy for a fun, beginner-friendly summer reading club designed for kids learning hiragana! In 3 online 40 minute sessions with Utsunomiya-sensei, young learners will explore an easy manga while building their Japanese reading skills in a relaxed and engaging environment.

    Meet Our Mascots!The JASGA Youth Academy is guided by four lovable Shiba Inu mascots who are all about learning and having fun.

    • Haru dreams of starting a book club—especially because his best friend, Texu the Cowboy (テクス・ザ・カウボーイ), would rather spend all day outdoors riding imaginary horses under the hot Texas sun.

    • Suzu and Maru think a manga club sounds like the perfect way to stay cool, relax, and practice reading together.

    This summer, join Haru and friends in a fun adventure that balances books, imagination, and summer joy!

    Are you ready to embark on this exciting adventure of learning Japanese together through the captivating world of books? Let’s dive in! We believe the most enjoyable path is through group activites at JASGA, and we are passionate about communal learning and designed our new class around the engaging concept - Book Clubs. We firmly believe these newfound language skills will serve as a stepping stone to more meaningful conversations in Japanese. We explore the same Japanese book together in our shared Youth Manga Book Club.

    Sample of reading level

    Suggested Companion Learning:

    Youth Academy Course

  • Tuesday Morning: 9:00 a.m. CST

    July 13

    July 20

    July 27

    45 minutes ONLINE

  • $40 non -members

    $30 members

YOUTH & TEENS

STARTER
A1 LEVEL

Youth Academy Year 1 A
Youth New Beginner
Saturdays at 10:30am
First Year Learner

  • Youth Academy Year 1 (A Stream) – Beginner Japanese
    YA 1 (A) – A1 Level
    Step 1 – Fall Term
    Topics: Topics 1 and 2: Self-Introduction

    Dates: August 15 to October 3rd

    Saturdays @9:30am 

    Instructor: Danielle-sensei
    Ages: 9–14 years
    Curriculum: Marugoto A1 – Topics 1 - 2: Self-introduction

    Konnichi wa and welcome to Youth Academy Year 1 (A Stream)!

    This is the beginning of your child’s Japanese learning journey. Students build foundational communication skills while developing confidence in listening, speaking, and reading. Through engaging activities and cross-cultural learning, students explore Japanese language and culture in a supportive, small-group environment.

    Program Overview

    • Pace: 24 months to complete A1 Level

    • Class Size: Small groups for personalized attention

    • Focus: Mastering hiragana and katakana, gradually introducing essential kanji, and practical real-life communication skills

    The A1 level is intentionally paced over two years to allow deep understanding, literacy development, and confident progression.

    Entry Points:

    • Fall Term (August)

    • New Year Term (January)

    Students progress through four consecutive terms before advancing to Youth Academy Year 2.

    Who This Class Is For

    This class is a good fit for students who:

    • Are new to Japanese or have very limited exposure

    • Are curious about Japanese language and culture

    • Enjoy interactive, small-group learning

    • Are ready to begin learning hiragana

    No prior Japanese experience is required.

    Fall Term Learning Outcomes

    During the Fall Term, students will be able to:

    • Begin recognizing hiragana through stories

    • Give a self-introduction

    • Use greetings in multiple situations

    • Build foundational classroom vocabulary

    Homework Expectations

    To support progress in the online course, learners are expected to spend approximately 1.5–2 hours per week in CANVAS, reviewing vocabulary and practicing reading and writing after live instruction.

    Email us today to save your spot: sensei@jasgaaustin.org
    Classes are not recorded.

  • Member: $210 per learner

    Non-Member: $230 per learner

    8-week course (50 minutes online)

    Homework in CANVAS

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Marugoto A1 (Japanese 1)

YA 1 (A)

Youth Academy Year 1 B
Early Beginner
Saturdays at 10:30am
First Year Learner

  • Youth Academy Year 1 (B Stream) – Continuing Beginner Japanese
    YA 1 (B) – A1 Level
    Step 2 – Fall Term
    Instructor: Izumi-sensei
    Topics: Topic 7: Travelling around town
    Dates: August 15 to October 3rd

    Saturdays @9:30am 

    Instructor: Izumi-sensei
    Ages: 9–14 years
    Curriculum: Marugoto A1 – Topic 7: Travelling around town

    Konnichi wa and welcome to Youth Academy Year 1 (B Stream)!

    This stream serves students who are progressing through the first year of the A1 level. Learners continue strengthening reading fluency and expanding their ability to communicate about everyday topics. Stream B is designed for students approximately six months ahead of YA 1 (A) who are ready to expand their vocabulary and reading skills.

    Program Overview

    • Age Group: 9–14 years

    • Curriculum: Continues the Marugoto A1 program

    • Pace: Completion of A1 Level over 24 months

    • Class Size: Small groups for personalized attention

    Students continue developing strong literacy skills in hiragana and katakana while increasing confidence in practical communication.

    Who This Class Is For

    This class is a good fit for students who:

    • Have already begun learning hiragana

    • Can introduce themselves using simple Japanese phrases

    • Are comfortable with basic greetings and classroom expressions

    • Are ready to expand their vocabulary and reading fluency

    This stream is not intended for brand-new beginners.

    Fall Term Learning Outcomes

    During the Fall Term, students will be able to:

    • Strengthen hiragana reading accuracy

    • Increase familiarity with katakana

    • Give directions when taking a taxi

    • Recognize different transportation signs

    • Ask for directions from Place A to Place B using transportation

    • Ask how to reach a destination using different modes of transportation

    • Ask and answer basic follow-up questions

    • Participate in short guided conversations

    Homework Expectations

    Learners are expected to spend approximately 1.5–2 hours per week in CANVAS reviewing vocabulary, grammar, and assigned exercises after live instruction.

    Email us to save your spot: sensei@jasgaaustin.org
    Classes are not recorded.

  • Member: $210 per learner

    Non-Member: $230 per learner

    8-week course (50 minutes online)

    Homework in CANVAS

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Marugoto A1 (Japanese 1)

YA 1 (B)

Youth Academy Year 2
Progressing Beginner
Saturdays at 10:00am
Second Year Learner

  • Youth Academy Year 2  A1 Level
    YA 2
    Step 4 Fall Term
    Topics: Topic 9 (final topic): Holidays and days off
    Date: August 15 to October 3rd

    Saturdays @9:30am March 28 - May 16, 2026
    Instructor:     Marie Romano-sensei
    Ages: 9–14 years
    Curriculum: Marugoto A1 – Topic 9: Holidays and Days off

    Youth Academy Year 2 represents the second year of the A1 program. Students apply their literacy skills to more complex, real-world communication scenarios while preparing to advance beyond the A1 level.

    Program Overview

    Age Group: 9–14 years
    Curriculum: Continues and completes the Marugoto A1 program
    Pace: Completion of the 24-month A1 sequence
    Class Size: Small groups for personalized attention

    Students strengthen reading fluency in hiragana and katakana while expanding vocabulary, grammar structures, and conversational confidence.

    Who This Course Is For

    This course is ideal for learners who:

    • Have completed JPN Youth Academy Steps 1 to 3

    • Can read most hiragana and half of the katakana alphabet

    • Can discuss hobbies and daily routines

    Homework Expectations

    To support progress in the online course, learners are encouraged while it is not compulsory to spend approximately 1.5–2 hours per week in CANVAS working through the Rikai book after material has been covered in live class sessions.

    About Youth Academy Year 2

    Year 2 completes the A1 journey. Students refine literacy skills while applying Japanese to practical situations involving transportation, directions, and daily interactions.

    Spring Term Learning Goals

    During the Spring Term, students will:

    • Continue strengthening katakana reading skills

    • Recall and apply hiragana and katakana from previous terms

    • Read a short blog and answer questions

    • Write a short blog about their days off with short descriptions

    • Say what they did on their day off or vacation

    • Say where they want to go for their next vacation

    • Develop confidence in short conversational exchanges

    Email us to save your spot: sensei@jasgaaustin.org
    Classes are not recorded.

  • Member: $210 per learner

    Non-Member: $230 per learner

    8-week course (50 minutes online)

    Homework in CANVAS

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Marugoto A1 (Japanese 1)

YA 2

Teen Japanese 1-Year
Beginner Japanese
Saturdays at 11:00am
First Year Learner

  • Step 1 Fall Term
    JASGA Teen Japanese Pathway – Beginner Japanese
    A1 Level

    Saturdays @11am August 15 - October 3, 2026
    Instructor:     Marie Romano-sensei
    Ages: 14 - 18years
    Curriculum: Marugoto A1 – 1 Year

    A1 Level Completion Program

    Step 1 – Fall Term

    Topics: Topics 1 and 2: Self-Introduction
    Dates: August 15 to October 6
    Instructors: TBA
    Ages: 14–18 years
    Curriculum:Marugoto A1 – Topics 1–2: Self-Introduction

    Konnichi wa and welcome to JASGA Teen Japanese Pathway!

    This program is designed for teen learners beginning their Japanese language journey. Students build foundational communication skills while developing confidence in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in a supportive, small-group environment.

    The Teen Japanese Pathway is a structured program aligned with the A1 level and is completed over four consecutive terms (Fall, Winter, New Year, and Spring), leading to full A1 level completion.

    Through engaging, age-appropriate activities and cultural learning, students develop practical communication skills they can use in real-life situations.

    Program Overview

    • Start Point: Fall Term (August intake only)

    • Pace: 1 year (4 consecutive terms) to complete A1 Level

    • Class Size: Small groups for personalized attention

    • Focus: Hiragana and katakana mastery, introduction to essential kanji, and practical everyday communication skills

    This A1 pathway is intentionally structured to support steady development of literacy, confidence, and fluency over time.

    Entry Point

    • Fall Term (August only intake)

    Students continue through four consecutive terms to complete the A1 Level Pathway.

    Who This Class Is For

    This class is a good fit for students who:

    • Are new to Japanese or have very limited exposure

    • Are curious about Japanese language and culture

    • Enjoy interactive, small-group learning

    • Are ready to begin learning hiragana

    No prior Japanese experience is required.

    Fall Term Learning Outcomes

    During the Fall Term, students will be able to:

    • Begin recognizing hiragana through guided practice and stories

    • Give a self-introduction in Japanese

    • Use basic greetings in multiple situations

    • Build foundational classroom vocabulary

    • Begin recognizing katakana in context

    Homework Expectations

    To support progress in this course, learners are expected to spend approximately 1.5–2 hours per week in CANVAS, reviewing vocabulary and practicing reading and writing after live instruction.

    Homework includes:

    • Reviewing vocabulary and grammar

    • Completing assigned exercises

    • Reinforcing key concepts introduced in class

    Progression

    After completing this Fall Term 2026, students continue into:

    • Winter Term (Step 2)

    • New Year Term (Step 3)

    • Spring Term (Step 4)

    Upon completion, students finish the A1 Level Pathway.

    Email us today to save your spot: sensei@jasgaaustin.org
    Classes are not recorded.

  • Member: $210 per learner

    Non-Member: $230 per learner

    8-week course (50 minutes online)

    Homework in CANVAS

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Marugoto A1 (Japanese 1)

Teens

ADULTS (ALL AGES)

STARTER & ELEMENTARY
A1 & A2 LEVELS

Japanese 1 A
New Beginner
Tuesdays at 7:00pm
First Year Learner

  • Japanese 1A (A Stream)  
    Beginner Japanese
    JPN 1A  A1 Level
    Step 1 – Fall Term
    Topics: Topics 1 and 2: Self-introduction
    Dates: August 15 to October 6th

    Instructors: Danielle-sensei and Kaneko-sensei
    Ages: 16 years and older
    Curriculum: Marugoto A1 – Topics 1–2: Self Introduction

    Konnichi wa and welcome to JPN 1A!

    This course is the starting point for learners who are new to the program and new to Japanese. You will begin building foundational communication skills while developing literacy in the Japanese writing system.

    JPN 1A introduces essential everyday expressions and basic sentence structures used in daily life.

    Program Overview

    JPN 1A is the first step in our structured A1 progression. Students build listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in a supportive, small-group environment.

    This is a linear course that continues into JPN 1B.

    Who This Course Is For

    This course is ideal for learners who:

    • Are completely new to Japanese

    • Have very limited prior exposure to the language

    • Want a structured introduction to reading, writing, and speaking

    • Are ready to begin learning hiragana and katakana

    No prior Japanese experience is required.

    Fall Term Learning Outcomes

    In this Fall Term, you will be able to:

    • Greet friends appropriately throughout the day

    • Apply greetings based on situation and time of day

    • Provide a self-introduction about yourself and others

    • Begin recognizing and writing in hiragana (ひらがな)

    • Begin recognizing and writing your name in katakana (カタカナ)

    Homework Expectations

    To support your progress in the online course, learners are expected to spend approximately 1.5–2 hours per week in CANVAS working through the Rikai book after material has been covered during live class sessions.

    Homework includes:

    • Reviewing vocabulary and grammar

    • Completing assigned exercises

    • Reinforcing key concepts introduced in class

    After completing JPN 1A, students advance to JPN 1B to continue the A1 progression.

    Email us today to save your spot: sensei@jasgaaustin.org
    Classes are not recorded.

  • Member: $210 per learner

    Non-Member: $230 per learner

    8-week course (50 minutes online)

    Homework in CANVAS

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Marugoto A1 (Japanese 1)

JPN 1A

Japanese 1 B
Beginner
Thursdays at 7:00pm
First Year Learner

  • Japanese 1B – Continuing Beginner Japanese
    JPN 1B – A1 Level
    Step 3 – Fall Term
    Topics: Topics 5 to 7: Daily life, hobbies and travelling around town
    Dates: August 26th to October 8th

    Instructors: Utsunomiya-sensei
    Ages: 16 years and older
    Curriculum: Marugoto A1 – Topics 5–7: Daily life, hobbies and travelling around town

    Konnichi wa and welcome to JPN 1B!

    JPN 1B continues the A1 journey for learners who have already completed the early foundational steps. In this course, students strengthen reading fluency, expand vocabulary, and begin communicating with greater independence in practical, real-life situations.

    Program Overview

    JPN 1B builds on the skills developed in JPN 1A and represents the next stage of the A1 progression.

    Students continue developing:

    • Listening comprehension

    • Conversational confidence

    • Hiragana and katakana mastery

    • Introductory kanji recognition

    This course prepares students to complete the A1 level and move toward Japanese 2.

    Who This Course Is For

    This course is ideal for learners who:

    • Have completed Steps 1 & 2 or JPN 1A

    • Have mastered hiragana

    • Are familiar with basic sentence structures

    • Can introduce themselves and use everyday expressions

    Prerequisite: Mastery of hiragana is required.

    This level is generally equivalent to the early stages of beginner textbooks such as Genki I, Minna no Nihongo I, or similar introductory programs.

    Fall Term Learning Outcomes

    In this Fall Term, you will be able to:

    • Describe your daily routine

    • List your hobbies and interests

    • Explain what you do on your days off

    • Give directions when taking a taxi in Japan

    • Recognize taxi and station signs

    • Say how you get to a destination

    • Strengthen reading fluency and expand practical vocabulary

    Homework Expectations

    To support your progress in the online course, learners are expected to spend approximately 1.5–2 hours per week in CANVAS working through the Rikai book after material has been covered during live class sessions.

    Homework includes:

    • Reviewing vocabulary and grammar

    • Completing assigned exercises

    • Reinforcing key concepts introduced in class

    After completing JPN 1B, students may advance to Japanese 2 (JPN 2) and prepare for the A1 Level Assessment.

    Email us today to save your spot: sensei@jasgaaustin.org
    Classes are not recorded.

  • Member: $210 per learner

    Non-Member: $230 per learner

    8-week course (50 minutes online)

    Homework in CANVAS

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Marugoto A1 (Japanese 1)

JPN 1B

Japanese 2
High Beginner
Wednesdays at 7:00pm
Second Year Learner

  • Step 7 – Fall TermJapanese 2 – A2-1 LevelJPN 2 Topics: Topics 5 to 7: Cultural comparisons, organizing a friend meet-up, and business tripsDate: August 19th to October 7th

    Fall Term Schedule: (Dates TBA) Instructor: Utsunomiya-sensei Ages: 16 years and olderCurriculum: Marugoto A2-1 – Topics 5–7:  Cultural comparisons, organizing a friend meet-up, and business trips

    Konnichi wa and welcome to JPN 2.

    JPN 2 represents the second year of Japanese study in our program. This course continues building toward the A2 level, strengthening conversational fluency, listening comprehension, and practical communication skills.

    Please note: JPN 2 is a linear course. Topics 1–4 were completed earlier in the academic year. This Fall Term continues with Topics 5–7.

    Homework Expectations

    To support progress in the online course, learners are encouraged (while it is not compulsory) to spend approximately 1.5–2 hours per week in CANVAS working through the Rikai book after material has been covered in live class sessions.

    Homework includes:

    • Reviewing vocabulary and grammar

    • Completing assigned exercises

    • Reinforcing key concepts introduced in class

    Fall Term Learning Outcomes

    In this Fall Term, you will be able to:

    • Discuss what food or drinks to bring to an event with friends

    • Comment on food you are unfamiliar with and express opinions

    • Check into a hotel and use practical phrases for travel

    • Use useful expressions for business trips

    • Plan and discuss a business trip schedule

    Who This Course Is For

    This course is ideal for learners who:

    • Have completed the full A1 level (JPN 1A and JPN 1B)

    • Can read hiragana and katakana comfortably

    • Recognize basic A1-level kanji

    • Can participate in simple conversations about daily life

    • Are ready to move beyond beginner-level communication

    Prerequisites & Recommended Background

    Students should be:

    • Proficient in reading hiragana and katakana

    • Familiar with foundational A1-level kanji

    • Comfortable introducing themselves and discussing everyday topics

    This level is generally equivalent to the completion of a full introductory textbook such as Genki I, Minna no Nihongo I, or similar beginner programs.

    Is This Course Right for You?

    If you have completed beginner Japanese and are ready to expand your listening skills, handle real-life travel situations, and engage in more practical conversations, JPN 2 is your next step toward intermediate proficiency.

    Email us today to save your spot: sensei@jasgaaustin.orgClasses are not recorded.

  • Member: $210 per learner

    Non-Member: $230 per learner

    8-week course (50 minutes online)

    Homework in CANVAS

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Marugoto A2 -1 Japanese 2

JPN 2

Japanese 3
Emerging Intermediate
Tuesdays at 7:00pm
Third Year Learner

  • Step 11 – Fall TermJapanese 3 – A2-2 LevelJPN 3Topics: Topics 6 and 7: Online shopping and Japanese traditional cultureDates: August 18th to October 6th

    Fall Term Schedule:Instructor: Marie Romano-sensei
    Ages: 16 years and older Curriculum: Marugoto A2-2 – Topics 6-7: Online shopping and Japanese traditional culture

    Konnichi wa and welcome to JPN 3.

    JPN 3 represents the third year of Japanese study in our program. This course builds on A2-1 skills to strengthen conversational fluency, comprehension, and practical communication in a wider range of everyday situations.

    Please note: JPN 3 is a linear course. We begin with Topic 1 at the start of the academic year and progress through Topic 9 by the end of the year. This Fall Term covers Topics 6 and 7.

    Homework Expectations

    To support progress in the online course, learners are encouraged (while it is not compulsory) to spend approximately 1.5–2 hours per week in CANVAS working through the Rikai book after material has been covered in live class sessions.

    Homework includes:

    • Reviewing vocabulary and grammar

    • Completing assigned exercises

    • Reinforcing key concepts introduced in class

    Fall Term Learning Outcomes

    In this Fall Term, you will be able to:

    • Provide reasons for what you will buy

    • Compare and contrast two items you buy

    • Talk briefly about a famous place

    • Talk about the rules at a sightseeing location

    Who This Course Is For

    This course is ideal for learners who:

    • Have completed JPN 2 (A2-1)

    • Have studied Japanese for at least two years

    • Can read hiragana and katakana comfortably

    • Recognize and use A2-level kanji in everyday contexts

    • Are ready to expand beyond basic conversation into more detailed expression

    Prerequisites & Recommended Background

    Students should be:

    • Proficient in reading hiragana and katakana

    • Familiar with A2-level kanji

    • Comfortable discussing personal experiences and everyday topics

    • Able to participate in short conversations without relying heavily on notes

    This level is generally equivalent to the completion of Genki II, Minna no Nihongo II, or similar continuing beginner/intermediate programs. Students who have completed Yokoso! Volume 1 will find this level appropriate.

    Is This Course Right for You?

    If you have studied Japanese for at least two years, are comfortable with everyday kanji, and are ready to express yourself in more detailed and natural ways, JPN 3 is your next step toward intermediate proficiency.

    Email us today to save your spot: sensei@jasgaaustin.orgClasses are not recorded.

  • Member: $210 per learner

    Non-Member: $230 per learner

    8-week course (50 minutes online)

    Homework in CANVAS

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Marugoto A2-2 Japanese 3

JPN 3

ADULTS (ALL AGES)

PRE-INTERMEDIATE & ADVAnced
A2-B1 LEVELS

Japanese 4
Expanding Intermediate
Tuesdays at 7:00pm
Fourth Year Learner

  • Step 15  Fall TermJapanese 4 – A2-B1 LevelJPN 4Topics: Topic 6 and 7: Celebrations and Giving AdviceDates: August 19 to October 7

    Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. (Fall Dates TBA) Instructor: Utsunomiya- senseiAges: 16 years and olderCurriculum: Marugoto A2-2 – Topics 6 and 7: Celebrations and giving advice

    Konnichi wa and welcome to JPN 4.

    JPN 4 represents the fourth year of Japanese study in our program. This course continues to develop conversational fluency, listening comprehension, and practical communication skills. Topics are presented in a Marugoto A2/B1 topic-based approach, focusing on vocabulary and expressions rather than only grammar. Previous topics (1–2) were completed earlier this year; this Fall Term continues with Topics 3–4.

    Homework Expectations

    To support your progress in the online course, learners are expected to spend approximately 1.5–2 hours per week in CANVAS reviewing the online course content practiced in the weekly course through the videos and audios.

    Homework includes:

    • Reviewing vocabulary and grammar

    • Completing assigned exercises

    • Reinforcing key concepts introduced in class

    Fall Term Learning Outcomes

    In this Fall Term, you will be able to:

    • Talk about recent news with a friend

    • Verify information with a friend

    • Communicate when a friend is worried

    • Provide advice to a friend

    • Develop an understanding of common problems that worry people through article analysis 

    Who This Course Is For

    This course is ideal for learners who:

    • Have completed JPN 3 (A2-2 Level)

    • Can read hiragana, katakana, and at least 200 kanji

    • Have knowledge of basic grammar structures from beginner and continuing beginner programs

    • Want to improve conversational skills, comprehension, and fluency in everyday and culturally relevant topics

    Prerequisites & Recommended Background

    Students should be:

    • Familiar with 200+ kanji (or equivalent Marugoto A2-level kanji)

    • Comfortable reading, writing, and speaking in basic Japanese

    • Experienced with elementary and intermediate grammar

    • Ready to engage in topic-based conversations beyond beginner-level content

    This course aligns with the completion of Genki I & II, Minna no Nihongo II, Yōkoso! Continuing, or similar continuing beginner programs.

    Is This Course Right for You?

    If you have studied Japanese for 2–3 years and want to deepen conversational skills, express opinions more naturally, and engage with extended topics, JPN 4 is your next step toward intermediate proficiency.

    Email us today to save your spot: sensei@jasgaaustin.orgClasses are not recorded.

  • Member: $210 per learner

    Non-Member: $230 per learner

    8-week course (50 minutes online)

    Homework in CANVAS

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Japanese 4 A2-B1

JPN 4

Japanese 5
Intermediate
Tuesdays at 7:00pm
Fifth Year Learner

  • Step 18 – Fall TermJapanese 5 – B1 LevelJPN 5 Topics: Topics 3 and 4: Discussions and comparisons using music and traveling situationsDates: August 26th to August 8th

    Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. (Fall Dates TBA)Instructor: Ichigo-senseiAges: 16 years and olderCurriculum: Marugoto B1 – Topics 3–4: Discussions and comparisons using music and travelling situations

    Konnichi wa and welcome to JPN 5.

    JPN 5 represents the fifth year of Japanese study in our program. This course is designed to expand your vocabulary, improve listening comprehension, and deepen speaking skills, with a focus on expressing opinions, understanding reasoning, and engaging with authentic materials. Topics are presented in a Marugoto B1 topic-based approach, building on previous A2/B1 knowledge.

    Homework Expectations

    To support your progress in the online course, learners are expected to spend approximately 1.5–2 hours per week in CANVAS reviewing the online course content practiced in the weekly course through the videos and audios.

    Homework includes:

    • Reviewing vocabulary and grammar

    • Completing assigned exercises

    • Reinforcing key concepts introduced in class

    Fall Term Learning Outcomes

    In this Fall Term, you will be able to:

    • Discuss your opinions with someone and provide reasons to justify them

    • Listen to someone’s opinion and understand the reasoning behind it

    • Make simple comments about someone’s opinion

    • Listen to and understand an outside broadcast report

    • Request changes to an ordered item (hotel room, food, etc.) and give reasons

    • Speak in detail about hopes and plans for a trip

    • Identify the features of reviews, blogs, and emails and create your own

    Who This Course Is For

    This course is ideal for learners who:

    • Have completed JPN 4 (A2-B1 Level)

    • Can read hiragana, katakana, and approximately 300 kanji

    • Are comfortable with B1 grammar and expressions

    • Want to deepen communication skills for real-life situations and cultural topics

    • Enjoy discussing opinions, planning trips, and engaging with extended written materials

    Prerequisites & Recommended Background

    Students should be:

    • Proficient in hiragana and katakana

    • Familiar with Marugoto A2/B1-level kanji (approx. 300+ characters)

    • Comfortable introducing themselves and speaking about personal experiences

    • Ready to express opinions, justify reasoning, and understand intermediate-level texts

    • Familiar with beginner and intermediate grammar structures

    This level aligns with Tobira, Integrated Approach to Intermediate Japanese, Kanzen Master / Sou no Matome (Intermediate), or equivalent programs.

    Is This Course Right for You?

    If you have studied Japanese for 3–4 years, can converse on daily topics, and want to express opinions and ideas in more detail, JPN 5 is your next step toward intermediate fluency and independent communication.

    Email us today to save your spot:sensei@jasgaaustin.orgClasses are not recorded.

  • Member: $210 per learner

    Non-Member: $230 per learner

    8-week course (50 minutes online)

    Homework in CANVAS

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Japanese 5 B1 Intermediate 1

JPN 5

JLPT N2
Advanced
Thursdays at 7:00pm
Advanced Learner

  • Japanese Language Proficiency Test Level 2 – Mastering Intermediate–Advanced Japanese
    JLPT N2 Prep Spring Term
    Topics:
    Dates: August 26 to October 8

    Instructor: Megumi-sensei
    Ages: 16 years and older
    Program Level: Upper Intermediate to Advanced (JLPT N2+ readiness)

    Konnichi wa, and welcome to the JLPT N2 Prep Course!

    This course is designed for advanced learners of Japanese who want to either prepare for the JLPT N2 exam or maintain and strengthen their Japanese skills at a high level. It is a standalone course, not part of the Marugoto or step-based programs, and is offered in the New Year, Spring, and Fall Terms.

    Students will engage with authentic reading materials, complex grammar, and nuanced communication practice to enhance fluency and comprehension.

    Spring/Fall Term Learning Outcomes

    In this term, you will be able to:

    • Analyze and discuss authentic Japanese texts from newspapers, interviews, and online media

    • Build fluency with complex grammar structures and advanced vocabulary

    • Express nuanced opinions and interpretations clearly in written and spoken Japanese

    • Optional: practice short compositions or presentations to deepen engagement with the language and culture

    • Comprehend abstract concepts, critiques, and arguments in Japanese texts

    Who This Course Is For

    This course is ideal for learners who:

    • Are preparing for the JLPT N2 exam

    • Have already passed N2 or higher but want to maintain or advance their skills

    • Can read and understand approximately 1000 kanji

    • Are comfortable with complex sentence structures and authentic reading materials

    • Want to engage thoughtfully with Japanese culture, media, and discussion topics

    Prerequisites & Recommended Background

    Students should be:

    • Proficient at JLPT N3 level or higher

    • Comfortable reading and understanding 1000+ kanji

    • Experienced in intermediate Japanese grammar and sentence structures

    • Able to participate in discussions about abstract topics and opinions

    • Interested in optional writing or presentation activities

    Is This Course Right for You?

    If you are an advanced learner of Japanese seeking to prepare for JLPT N2, maintain high-level skills, or engage with authentic Japanese texts and cultural discussions, this course is your next step.

    Email us today to save your spot: sensei@jasgaaustin.org
    Classes are not recorded.

  • Member: $210 per learner

    Non-Member: $230 per learner

    8-week course (50 minutes online)

    Homework in CANVAS

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • JLPT N2 Prep Course Textbook 1

    JLPT N2 Prep Course Textbook 2

JLPT N2

Find Your Marugoto Level

If you studied:
 • Genki I, Minna no Nihongo I, Japanese for Busy People I
 ⇒ You are likely at Marugoto A1 Beginner → A2-1 (JPN 1B or JPN 2)

If you studied:
 • Genki II, Minna no Nihongo II, Japanese for Busy People II, Yōkoso! Continuing
 ⇒ You are likely at Marugoto A2-2 → A2-B1 (JPN 3 or JPN 4)

If you studied:
 • Integrated Approach to Intermediate Japanese, Tobira
 ⇒ You are likely at Marugoto B1 (JPN 5)

Graphic illustrating Japanese language proficiency levels from beginner to intermediate, labeled as steps 1 through 20, with color-coded levels indicating different proficiency stages and a person climbing stairs.

COURSE CATALOG

More Information

Terms: 2026

New Year | Spring | Fall | Winter

Japanese Language Courses: Online courses, one hour a week.
We do not record online courses, and recording of online classes is prohibited.

Buy your textbooks online through our links or visit the local Kinokuniya Bookstore.

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