This course aims to develop the basic communication skills (oral/aural skills as well as reading/writing skills) that participants need in order to function comfortably in everyday life situations using Japanese. It also provides opportunities to master more complex grammatical structures and vocabulary/expressions through practical application in both written and spoken contexts. Communicative tasks and activities, done in pairs or small groups, help participants gain confidence in using Japanese, and prepare them for everyday interactions. We will explore aspects of Japanese education, politics, nature, society and culture through class readings, audio/video materials, discussions and personal research and peer presentations.