language courses

COURSE CATALOG

Registration Information

2025 Spring Registration for 8-week courses opens February 21

2025 Spring Registration for 8-week courses opens February 21

FOR NEW STUDENTS (Steps 1 - 4)
First Year Learners (A1 Level)
(Serves as a Prep Course for JPN 1 A)
March 17 & 19 7pm online

  • Basic Japanese Power-Up

    Learn basic phrases, the all important self introduction, and other essentials for a quick trip to Japan or to join the beginning Japanese 1 A on Tuedays’s class.

    This is a prerequisite for JPN 1A on Tuesdays for new learners.

    Did you miss the New Year term? Speed through Japanese 1 (Step 1 ) and get ready for Japanese 1 (Step 3). You will be ready to start Japanese 1 in the Fall Term.

    Accompany this course with the Hiragana and Katakana Power- Ups, too.

  • SPRING Term 2025 (2-days)

    Monday, March 17 @ 7:00 p.m. (50 minutes)

    Wednesday, March 19 @ 7:00 p.m. (50 minutes)

    ONLINE COURSE

    Extras: Registered learners have access to the CANVAS learning platform to go at their own pace with audio and visual components for practice and we offer monthly a online conversation course called the Nihongo Social Club with our sensei tachi.

  • 2-day course

    $60.00

  • Marugoto A1 (Japanese 1)

Youth Academy (Steps 1 - 4)
Beginner Learners (A1 Level) Saturday @9:30am 8-weeks
Danielle-sensei

  • Youth Academy: Fun & Engaging Japanese for Kids!

    Instructor: Danielle Corban-Foy-sensei
    Ages: 10–14 years

    Konnichi wa!

    Welcome to the Youth Academy! This course is designed to spark your child’s interest in Japanese culture and language through exciting, interactive lessons. Guided by energetic and experienced instructors, students will explore daily life topics, enjoy storytelling, and learn through hands-on activities—all while building a strong foundation in Japanese.

    What You’ll Learn in the Spring Term

    Spring Term prerequisites: The learner knows half of the Hiragana alphabet or is working towards it. 

    Spring Term

    This term will cover being able to:

    • Begin recognizing hiragana through stories

    • Describe my family

    • Tell someone’s age

    • Express likes and dislikes using the topic of food

    • List what I eat and drink

    • Order at a restaurant using a menu

    Please note: this is a continuation course, and we are starting on Chapters 2 and 3 of Marugoto Book 1.

    Spring Term prerequisites: The learner knows half of the Hiragana alphabet or is working towards it. 

    Course Details

    • Class Age: Designed for students aged 10–14 years.

    • Class Duration: 24 months to complete the A1 Level, allowing for a slower-paced, in-depth approach.

    • Class Size: Small group for personalized attention and interaction.

    Program Structure and Progression

    The Youth Academy follows the Marugoto A1 curriculum, with a focus on ensuring students fully grasp both Hiragana and Katakana. Lessons emphasize comprehension and application through fun activities tailored to young learners.

    Join the Youth Academy Today!

    Encourage your child’s love for language and culture in a supportive, interactive environment. Build their skills and confidence while opening doors to a world of Japanese learning.

    Email us today to save your spot! 🌸 sensei@jasgaaustin.org.

  • SPRING Term 2025 (8-weeks)

    Saturdays @ 9:30 a.m. (50 minutes)

    March 22 - May 10, 2025

    ONLINE COURSE

  • Member: $190 per learner

    Non-Member: $210 per learner

    8-week course (Fall Term)

  • Marugoto A1 (Japanese 1)

Japanese 1 A (Steps 1 - 4)
First Year Learners (A1 Level)
Tuesday @7pm 8-weeks
Kaneko-sensei and Danielle-sensei

  • JPN 1: Start Your Japanese Adventure!

    Prerequiste: All new students to this course must take the Power-Up on March 17/19

    Instructor: Kaneko-sensei
    New Year Term: Step 1

    Konnichi wa!

    Welcome to Japanese 1! This beginner-friendly course introduces you to everyday expressions and basic phrases, along with key components of the Japanese writing systems: Hiragana and Katakana, plus important kanji for daily life in Japan. Ideal for new learners starting from scratch.

    What You’ll Learn in the New Year Term

    Spring Term:

    In this Spring term you will be able to:

    In Stream A (new to the program from Jan 2025)

    - State what you like and don’t like (preferences)

    - Talk about what you eat and drink

    - Organize where to eat with a friend

    - Describe the place you live at

    - Describe your daily routine

    **Those who complete this term will transition to the start of the Stream B category to cover Chapters 6-9 with your teacher for the last 6-months of Japanese 1

    Course Details

    • Class Age: 16 years and older.

    • Class Size: Limited to 12 students for personalized attention.

    • Duration: 12 months (4 terms) to complete the Marugoto A1 level.

    JPN 1 Class Options:

    • Tuesday Class (JPN 1A):
      For absolute beginners or those needing a refresher with Hiragana.

    • Thursday Class (JPN 1B):
      For students midway through the Marugoto book who can read Hiragana and are ready for Katakana and basic Kanji.

    If you're unsure which option is best, email sensei@jasgaaustin.org for placement assistance.

    Textbook and Resources

    • Required Textbook: Marugoto: Japanese Language and Culture Starter A1.

    • Suggested Workshops:

      • Hiragana Power-Up Workshop.

      • Katakana Power-Up Workshop.

    Program Structure

    Each Marugoto book covers 9 topics with 18 lessons total. Each term, learners will complete 2 topics. The activity book, Rikai, includes engaging activities to reinforce your skills.

    Progress at Your Own Pace:
    While the program is designed for steady progress, learners are encouraged to repeat courses to build confidence before advancing to the next level.

    Join the Journey!

    With fun, practical lessons and expert guidance, you'll gain the skills to navigate everyday Japanese conversations and situations. Email us today to start your language journey! 🌸

  • Spring Term 2025 (8-weeks)

    Tuesdays @ 7:00 p.m. (50 minutes)

    March 25 - May 13, 2025

    ONLINE COURSE

    Extras: Registered learners have access to the CANVAS learning platform to go at their own pace with audio and visual components for practice and we offer monthly a online conversation course called the Nihongo Social Club with our sensei tachi.

  • 8-Week Course ONLINE (50 minutes per week)

    Members $190.00

    Non-Members $210.00

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Marugoto A1 (Japanese 1)

Japanese 1 B(Steps 1 - 4)
First Year Learners (A1 Level)
Thursday @7pm 8-weeks
Shirata-sensei

  • JPN 1B: Build Your Japanese Skills!

    Instructor: Shirata-sensei
    Spring Term: Step 3

    Konnichi wa!

    Welcome to JPN 1B! This course is perfect for students ready to expand their skills. You'll master everyday expressions, strengthen your basic phrases, and deepen your understanding of the Japanese writing systems: Hiragana, Katakana, and essential kanji for daily life in Japan.

    What You’ll Learn in the Spring Term

    By the end of this term, you’ll be able to:

    • In Stream B (have already started Marugoto 1 in 2024)

      - Talk about what you want to buy and where to buy it

      - State your opinion about something you saw or did

      - State what you did on your vacation and where you want to go next time

      ****Those who finish Stream B this term can move into the Japanese 2 Stream A class held on Wednesdays.

    Course Details

    • Prerequisite: Ability to read Hiragana.

    • Class Age: 16 years and older.

    • Class Size: Limited to 12 students for personalized instruction.

    • Duration: 12 months (4 terms) to complete the Marugoto A1 level.

    JPN 1 Class Options:

    • Tuesday Class (JPN 1A):
      For absolute beginners or those needing a refresher with Hiragana.

    • Thursday Class (JPN 1B):
      For students midway through the Marugoto book who can read Hiragana and are ready for Katakana and basic Kanji.

    New students can join throughout the year. Upon completing the A1 level, learners advance to Japanese A2.

    If you're unsure about placement, email sensei@jasgaaustin.org for guidance.

    Textbook and Resources

    • Required Textbook: Marugoto: Japanese Language and Culture Starter A1.

    • Suggested Workshops:

      • Hiragana Power-Up Workshop.

      • Katakana Power-Up Workshop.

    Program Structure

    Each Marugoto book covers 9 topics with 18 lessons total. During this term, students will cover 2 topics. The activity book, Rikai, includes engaging activities that bring your lessons to life.

    Practice and Progress:
    This course is designed to build on previous skills. Repeating courses as needed is encouraged to ensure confidence before moving to the next level.

    Join the Next Step!

    Take your Japanese skills further with JPN 1B! With engaging lessons and expert guidance, you'll feel more confident navigating real-life situations in Japanese. Email us today to continue your language journey! 🌸

  • Spring Term 2025 (8-weeks)

    Thursdays @ 7:00 p.m. (50 minutes)

    March 27 - May 15, 2025

    ONLINE COURSE

    Extras: Registered learners have access to the CANVAS learning platform to go at their own pace with audio and visual components for practice and we offer monthly a online conversation course called the Nihongo Social Club with our sensei tachi.

  • 8-Week Course ONLINE (50 minutes per week)

    Members $190.00

    Non-Members $210.00

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Marugoto A1 (Japanese 1)

Japanese 2 (Steps 5 - 8)
Second Year Learners (A2-1 Level)
Wednesday @7pm 8-weeks
Kobayashi-sensei

  • JPN 2: Expanding Your Japanese Language Skills

    Instructor: Miho Kobayashi-sensei
    Spring Term: Step 7

    Konnichi wa!

    Take your Japanese to the next level with JPN 2, perfect for learners who have completed at least one year of study. This course builds on your foundational knowledge to enhance your communication and writing skills, while deepening your understanding of Japanese culture.

    What You’ll Learn in the Spring Term

    By the end of this term, you will be able to:

    • This Spring term you will be able to:

      - Discuss the weather, and what you like and dislike about it

      - Recommend places of interest and what to be careful about 

      - Listen and provide directions

      - Organize plans with a friend 

      - Invite a friend to a place / respond to an invitation

    Course Details

    • Prerequisite: Proficiency in Hiragana and Katakana, and familiarity with A1-level Kanji.

    • Class Age: 16 years and older.

    • Class Size: Maximum of 12 students for an interactive learning environment.

    • Program Duration: JPN 2 continues for 4 terms, completing the A2 level of Marugoto.

    Rolling Enrollment

    New students are welcome to join throughout the year! If you're starting mid-term, our team will assess your skills to place you at the best fit for your learning journey.

  • Spring Term 2025 (8-weeks)

    Wednesdays @ 7:00 p.m. (50 minutes)

    March 26 - May 14, 2025

    ONLINE COURSE

    Extras: Registered learners have access to the CANVAS learning platform to go at their own pace with audio and visual components for practice and we offer monthly a online conversation course called the Nihongo Social Club with our sensei tachi.

  • 8-Week Course ONLINE (50 minutes per week)

    Members $190.00

    Non-Members $210.00

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Marugoto A2 -1 Japanese 2

Japanese 3 (Steps 9 - 12)
Third Year Learners (A2-2 Level) Tuesday @7pm 8-weeks
Shirata-sensei

  • JPN 3: Advancing Your Japanese Proficiency

    Instructor: Utsunomiya-sensei
    Spring Term: Step 12

    Konnichi wa!

    Build on your two years of Japanese study with JPN 3! This course is designed to expand your skills in self-expression, description, and making observations, all while strengthening your understanding of Japanese culture and language nuances.

    What You’ll Learn in the Term

    By the end of this term, Spring Term, you will be able to:

    • - Advise about a sightseeing spot and describe what it is like

      - Ask clarifying questions for a planned event (date, time, venue, etc.)

      - Discuss what you do at seasonal celebrations

    • Course Details

    • Prerequisite: Proficiency in Hiragana and Katakana, familiarity with A2-level Kanji, and completion of Yokoso Vol. 1.

    • Class Age: 18 years and older.

    • Class Size: Maximum of 15 students to ensure an engaging learning environment.

    • Program Duration: JPN 3 spans 4 terms to complete the A2 level of Marugoto.

    Certification Opportunity

    Upon completing the A2 level, learners will receive a certification recognizing their achievement.

    Rolling Enrollment

    New students are welcome to join throughout the year! If you're starting mid-term, we’ll help determine the best placement for your current skill level.

    Suggested Companion Learning

    • Reading Group B

    • Reading Group C

    • Hiragana Power-up Workshop

    • Katakana Power-up Workshop

    Textbooks

    Explore practical topics, including:

    • Instructions on how to eat unique Japanese foods.

    • Lessons covering 9 topics, with each topic comprising 2 lessons.

    • The Rikai activity book includes five activities per lesson to reinforce your learning.

    Get in Touch

    Ready to take the next step in your Japanese journey? Email sensei@jasgaaustin.org for more information or to determine the best placement for your skills. Together, we’ll continue advancing your language proficiency! 🌸

  • Spring Term 2025 (8-weeks)

    Tuesdays @ 7:00 p.m. (50 minutes)

    March 25 - May 13, 2025

    ONLINE COURSE

    Extras: Registered learners have access to the CANVAS learning platform to go at their own pace with audio and visual components for practice and we offer monthly a online conversation course called the Nihongo Social Club with our sensei tachi.

  • 8-Week Course ONLINE (50 minutes per week)

    Members $190.00

    Non-Members $210.00

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Marugoto A2-2 Japanese 3

Japanese 4 (Steps 13 - 16)
Fourth Year Learners (A2-B1 Level) Tuesday @6pm 8-weeks
Instructor Kaneko-sensei

  • JLPT N2

    Instructor: Maeri Megumi-sensei

    Spring Term

    The N2 level requires the ability to theoretically understand complex sentences in newspapers and web media, as well as simple criticism, and to express opinions on general matters in Japanese.

    This is a good class not only for those who are aiming to take JLPT N2, but also for those who have already achieved the level of advanced Japanese (e.g. already passed N2 or higher). It is highly recommended that you have at least JLPT N3 level Japanese because you’re expected to be familiar with about 1000 kanji and understand complex sentences such as those in newspapers, web media, short stories and the like.

    We use two textbooks: with Kanzen Master, we focus on grammar (key expressions) in preparation for JLPT N2. With 新中級から上級への日本語, we read authentic texts and discuss (and write a short composition or do a short presentation if the student desires to) various topics. For instance, in Unit 6, we read an article about the former CEO of Nintendo, Satoru Iwata’s interview where he talks about Nintendo’s aspirations as well as the engine of Nintendo creativity. In the same Unit, we also look at the newspaper articles on job hunting data in Japan. In this way, we discuss “What does it mean to “work”?” for you, and in different cultural settings. There are also good exercises for vocabulary building for N2 and N1 levels in each unit.

    Suggested Companion Learning:

    Summer Learning Experience:

    Reading Group B

  • Spring Term 2025 (8-weeks)

    Thursdays @ 7:00 p.m. (50 minutes)

    March 27 - May 15, 2025

    ONLINE COURSE

  • 8-Week Course ONLINE (50 minutes per week)

    Members $190.00

    Non-Members $210.00

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • JLPT N2 Prep Course Textbook 1

    JLPT N2 Prep Course Textbook 2

Japanese 5 (Steps 17-20)
Fifth Year Learners Thursday @6pm 8-weeks
Instructor Megumi-sensei

  • JPN 5

    Fall Term: Step 19

    This is ideal for learners who have finished (or almost finished) Marugoto A2/B1. You’re expected to be familiar with 300+ kanji.

    At this level, you can already communicate in Japanese for basic needs. The aim of this class with Marugoto B1 is to expand vocabulary that help you to express your ideas more in detail, and further develop your listening as well as speaking skills. You’ll be exposed to many colloquial expressions and this will increase what you can do in real-life communicative situations.

    Contact the instructor for any questions.

    Spring Term 2024:

    Topics – Meeting new people, Food I recommend, favorite music

    Textbooks

    Suggested Companion Learning:

    Summer Learning Experience:

    Reading Group B

  • Spring Term 2025

    Thursdays @ 6:00 p.m. (50 minutes)

    March 27 - 15, 2025

    ONLINE COURSE

  • 8-Week Course ONLINE (50 minutes per week)

    Members $190.00

    Non-Members $210.00

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Japanese 5 B1 Intermediate 1

JLPT N2
Prep Course Learners Thursday @7pm 8-weeks
Instructor Megumi-sensei

  • JPN 4: Expanding Your Japanese Conversation Skills

    Instructor: Kaneko-sensei
    Spring Term: Step 15

    Konnichi wa!

    JPN 4 is the perfect next step for learners with 2-3 years of Japanese study, ready to deepen their conversational skills and practical understanding of Japanese language and culture. Using Marugoto A2/B1, this course focuses on topic-based lessons that expand vocabulary, expressions, and cultural knowledge, with grammar integrated naturally into conversations.

    What You’ll Learn in the Spring Term

    By the end of this term, you will be able to:

    • Discuss your eating habits 

      - Discuss your memories from living overseas

      - Discuss experiences of learning a foreign language/s

      - Understand writer opinions from extended written pieces on eating habits and experiences living overseas

    Course Details

    • Prerequisite: Familiarity with 200+ Kanji (or Marugoto A2 level Kanji) and basic grammar structures. Completion of the Genki series (Genki I and Genki II) is recommended.

    • Class Age: 18 years and older.

    • Class Size: Maximum of 12 students for an engaging and interactive experience.

    Learning Focus

    Marugoto A2/B1 uses a topic-based approach, emphasizing vocabulary and expressions relevant to daily life and cultural themes. Examples include:

    • Sports vocabulary, such as cheering, winning, and losing.

    • Inviting friends to events and discussing preferences.

    • Natural conversational techniques for real-life situations.

    You’ll also strengthen your listening comprehension and apply a variety of grammar structures in context.

    Rolling Enrollment

    New students are welcome throughout the year! Mid-term enrollees will receive guidance to determine the best placement for their skills.

    Suggested Companion Learning

    • Reading Group C

    • Kanji Power-up Workshop

    • Japanese Conversation Practice Sessions

    Textbooks

    Each chapter in Marugoto A2/B1 explores a specific topic, fostering vocabulary and conversational fluency. You’ll complete practical activities and discussions, ensuring active engagement in your learning process.

    Get in Touch

    Ready to level up your Japanese skills? Email sensei@jasgaaustin.org for more information or to discuss placement options. Let’s continue your journey toward fluency together! 🌸

  • Spring Term 2025(8-weeks)

    Wednesdays @ 7:00 p.m. (50 minutes)

    March 26 - May 14, 2025

    ONLINE COURSE

    Extras: Registered learners have access to the CANVAS learning platform to go at their own pace with audio and visual components for practice and we offer monthly a online conversation course called the Nihongo Social Club with our sensei tachi.

  • 8-Week Course ONLINE (50 minutes per week)

    Members $190.00

    Non-Members $210.00

    Members use discount code: LANGUAGE

  • Japanese 4 A2-B1

JASGA’s 20-step system offers a gentle progression to  advance your Japanese language learning…..one step at a time!

Expand your horizons by learning online at your convenience! We teach Marugoto; it’s more than just a language program. JASGA’s NihonGO! Language Program offers achievement awards through the Global Seal of Biliteracy.

The lifelong learning program encourages students to progress at their own pace.  Courses may be retaken as many times as needed.

More Information

Terms: 2025

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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