JPS2530

Japanese language acquisition and use

Robyn Spence-Brown

8 points
* 3 hours per week
* First semester
* Clayton
* Prerequisites: A first-year Japanese language sequence or equivalent

Objectives Students should acquire a basic understanding of some theoretical and practical issues concerning the acquisition and use of the Japanese language and be able to relate them to their own experiences in learning and using Japanese. They should develop general academic skills (in library research, critical thinking, oral and written communication) and establish a foundation for further studies in Japanese applied linguistics and sociolinguistics.

Synopsis The first part of this subject examines the place of Japanese and Japanese language teaching in the world, introduces some theories about how a second language is learned and how teaching and learning can be optimised, and highlights several aspects of designing language courses and assessing language competence. The second part of the subject focuses on basic aspects of the Japanese language and system of communication, particularly as they relate to intercultural communication. Topics covered will include intercultural communication, variation in Japanese, code switching, the Japanese script, non-verbal communication and the use of Japanese in business and in tourism.

Assessment 2 essays (2000 words each): 30% each
* One examination (2 hours): 40%