Japanese Language

Courses offered:
We offer four years of Japanese language instruction at Gettysburg College. Our first and second year language classes meet five days per week. Our third and fourth year classes meet three times per week. Classes are team taught in the first two years of instruction. Independent studies for qualified students are taught on a case-by-case basis.

If you've studied the Japanese language in high school, you should take our Japanese Language Placement Exam to see which level you belong in at Gettysburg College. Keep in mind that college level Japanese moves at a much faster pace than that of high school.

Textbooks:
Our first, second, and third year classes complete two volumes of Yookoso: An Introduction to Contemporary Japanese. The fourth year class uses An Integrated Approach to Intermediate Japanese and other supplementary materials. 

Learning Outcomes: 
We aim for proficiency in all four aspects of language learning - speaking, listening, reading and writing.  In the early years, students focus on fundamentals - grammar, the use of polite forms, and various cultural aspects necessary for communication with native Japanese speakers.  As students progress through the levels, they learn more and more kanji, and become more able to function solely in Japanese.  Upper level courses, particularly the fourth year course, are tailored to the needs and interests of the students, many of whom are returning from study abroad in Japan and hope to pursue careers and graduate work in Japanese related fields.

Japanese Language Table:
Japanese Language Tables are held routinely to provide students with the opportunity to practice casual Japanese conversation outside the classroom environment. Attendance is required throughout the semester to promote interaction between Japanese learners of different levels. Students bring their lunch and chat with each other and at least one native speaker over the lunch hour. Japanese Language table is held in the dining center each Thursday.

Additional Information

Study Abroad in Japan:
Gettysburg College is affiliated with Kansai Gaidai University in Hirakata City, between the business and industrial center of Osaka and the ancient capital of Kyoto. Kansai Gaidai offers instruction in Japanese language and a full range of courses on Japanese topics in English.

Japan Club:
The Japan Club desires to spread awareness and a sense of community by introducing its members to Japanese culture, products, and language.

International Club:
The mission of the International Club is to promote a multicultural exchange of perspectives between international and American students, faculty, administrators, staff, and members of the local community. The club provides both a support system and leadership opportunities for students and plans various activities and outings in conjunction with International Student Services.