Once you start preparing for your JLPT N5, Genki 1 is undoubtedly one of the resources that will be recommended for you as a new learner. However, like many other new learners, you may be wondering whether Genki 1 will offer you everything you need to know to pass JLPT N5.
In simple words, Genki 1 is enough for N5. This textbook covers the basic things you require for the test. It features an audio CD that will help you learn the right pronunciation of the Japanese words. Also, it comes with certain exercises that can serve as a big boost to your preparation for the JLPT N5.
Therefore, as long as you can dedicate sufficient time to reading the Genki 1 and understanding its content, it is enough for you to pass N5 in flying colors.
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What is Genki 1?
Basically, Genki 1 is a detailed Japanese book that is designed to introduce the language to new learners. The full name of the book is Genki 1: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese. This textbook is well-written to ensure that you know the fundamentals of the Japanese language as you prepare for JLPT N5 or any other introductory Japanese language test. With the aid of this textbook, you can learn Japanese on your own.
Based on the simplicity of its vocabulary, this textbook is suitable for adults and children that are just learning the language. It is worthwhile to understand that Genki 1 doesn’t have 100% exact vocabulary or kanji that is found in the JLPT N5. However, once you have read the whole book, you will be more than ready to take and pass the test. But you must ensure that you check out the kanji and vocabulary recommended for N5 online so that you will be familiar with some that may not be covered by Genki 1.
What does Genki 1 cover?
When you buy Genki 1, you will get a set of books that include a textbook and workbook. It has 12 different themed chapters and each chapter focuses on the most important introductory elements of Japanese. These chapters include:
- Speaking
- Reading
- Listening
- Writing
With Genki 1, you will get a perfect balance required for accuracy and fluency in the language. The revised edition of this textbook comes with an updated “Culture Notes” that covers the culture of Japan. As a result of this, Genki 1 helps you to learn the language while still getting more useful information about the daily life and culture of the Japanese people.
In addition to the textbook and workbook, you will get some audio aids. In the past, these aids would be bought separately. However, they now come in the form of an MP3 audio CD that you can play on your computer or any other device that can play a CD.
Syllabus of Genki 1
In the Genki 1 textbook, you will find:
- A list of vocabulary that covers readings in hiragana and kanji. There are also English translations for the introduced vocabulary.
- A comprehensive conversation between the protagonists. You can also access the readings and English translations of all kanji.
- Detailed and easy-to-understand explanations of the grammar. Also, you will get numerous examples and English translations that will ensure you understand everything explained in each chapter.
- This practice section that will boost your listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills.
- Culture notes at the end to introduce you to the Japanese culture.
The workbook has two major parts. The first part is the Conversation & Grammar section while the second one is the Reading & Writing section. Under the Conversation & Grammar section, you will get a worksheet that covers all the grammar point you will learn in the textbook. It also features listening comprehension practices.
Under the Reading & Writing section, there is a worksheet for kanji as well as several fill-in-the-gap questions that test your knowledge of kanji. Notably, this workbook also has exercises that require English-to-Japanese translation.
As a result of the way Genki 1’s textbook, workbook, and audio aids are structured, anyone can use it. In fact, it is the perfect resource for any individual that is just learning the Japanese language. Therefore, Genki 1 is definitely enough for N5.
What if you want other resources?
Irrespective of where you are learning Japanese from, it is very likely that Genki 1 will be recommended for you to take N5. Nonetheless, you may not want to rely on only Genki 1. Thus, you may be looking for other resources.
Well, there are tons of other resources that you can combine with Genki 1 to help you perform well in N5. These resources include:
- A Dictionary of Basic Japanese Grammar – this dictionary is offered by The Japan Times and must be added to Genki 1. It helps you expand your vocabulary as it tells you the meaning of different Japanese words.
- Japanese learning sites – there are tons of sites that are dedicated to teaching people the Japanese language. Most of these sites help you learn in a simple manner. An example of these sites is www.Japanesepod101.com.
- You should also consider other avenues through which you can learn Japanese. These include listening to podcasts, watching Japanese movies, or even anime. You can pick some relevant Japanese phrases and words that can enhance your understanding of the language.
Apart from helping you prepare for N5, these resources can also enhance your pronunciation of various words.
In a nutshell, Genki 1 is enough for you to prepare for the JLPT N5 and even pass the test exceptionally. This is because it comes with a textbook, a workbook, and audio aids that can prepare you sufficiently for the test. We suggest you also check out the requirements of N5 so that you can tailor your study to suit the test as you continue reading Genki 1. However, if you want more resources for your preparation for the JLPT N5, you should check out the ones highlighted above. Also, try N5 practice questions as you continue getting set for the exam.
