Marugoto is a coursebook for adult learners of Japanese that is based on the JF Standard* for Japanese Language-Education. Learners at Elementary1 level (A2) can have simple conversational exchanges about familiar everyday matters. Based on the philosophy of “Japanese for mutual understanding," each topic features people from a variety of cultural backgrounds interacting in Japanese. Hints about cross-cultural understanding, such as in dialog content, photos, and illustrations, can be found throughout the book. Marugoto also places importance on audio input for language learning, with many classroom activities for listening to natural conversation.

Elementary1 level (A2) is composed of two volumes, Katsudoo (Coursebook for communicative language activities) and Rikai (Coursebook for communicative language competences). In Katsudoo the aim is to develop practical communicative ability through listening to a variety of Japanese and through speaking practice. In Rikai you are able to systematically study the language system needed for communication. Both Katsudoo and Rikai can be main teaching materials, and the topics are the same. Depending on one's study goals, either book can be used independently, or both together to improve overall Japanese ability.

*JF Standard is based on the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference). This CEFR scale makes the content of Marugoto easy to compare with other language resources.

Merits of Marugoto

★Lush photos and illustrations to bring enjoyment to studying

★Plenty of audio resources to connect language input with output

★Portfolio system to manage your own learning progress

Recommended course length: 40 to 60 hours

Audio and other materials to be used together with Marugoto can be downloaded for free from website ≪https://www.marugoto.org/en/download/≫. Please note that you will be required to register on the publisher's Marugoto website.

Topic 1.  My Family and Myself

Lesson 1.  We live in Tokyo

Lesson 2.  My hobby is listening to classical music

Topic 2.  Seasons and Weather

Lesson 3.  It’s spring now in Japan

Lesson 4.  It’s a nice day, isn’t it?

Topic 3.  My Town

Lesson 5.  This park is big and beautiful

Lesson 6.  Please go straight

Topic 4.  Going Out

Lesson 7.  Is ten o’clock OK?

Lesson 8.  Have you been to see the night view yet?

Topic 5.  Languages and Cultures of Other Countries

Lesson 9.  Japanese is easy to pronounce

Lesson 10.  I’d like to go to Japan some day

Test and Reflection 1

Topic 6.  Eating Outdoors

Lesson 11.  What are you going to take to the picnic?

Lesson 12.  It looks delicious

Topic 7.  Business Trips

Lesson 13.  I have met Mr. Tanaka before

Lesson 14.  May I use this?

Topic 8.  Staying Healthy

Lesson 15.  How about doing some exercise?

Lesson 16.  I go running and swimming

Topic 9.  Celebrations

Lesson 17.  I got this for my birthday

Lesson 18.  I think a party is a good idea

Test and Reflection 2