IRODORI: Japanese for Life in Japan A1 Level is a Japanese language coursebook published by the Japan Foundation for foreigners who are living in or are planning to move to Japan. The A1 level corresponds to the Starter book in the series and is designed for complete beginners. The entire IRODORI series, including the textbooks and audio files, is available online for free.
Key features
"Can-do" based approach: Instead of focusing purely on grammar rules, the book is structured around practical, achievable "Can-do" objectives. For the A1 level, these include simple tasks like introducing yourself, asking where the toilet is, or asking for basic information.
Focus on real-life situations: The A1 content covers a variety of daily situations, such as giving a self-introduction, ordering food at a restaurant, or using public transportation. This practical focus prepares learners for immediate communication needs.
Authentic materials: The learning activities use authentic or semi-authentic materials found in Japan, such as restaurant menus, signs, and social media posts, to create a realistic and engaging learning environment.
Emphasis on listening: The A1 level includes a substantial amount of audio content. This focus on listening input helps learners get accustomed to spoken Japanese and improves their ability to understand real-life conversations.
Support for self-study: A key feature of IRODORI is its accessibility. The books and all related audio are free to download, making them ideal for independent learners.
Multilingual support: Explanations and content are available in multiple languages, making it more accessible to a global audience.
Connection to other JF resources: The topics and grammar in IRODORI align with the Japan Foundation's Marugoto: Japanese Language and Culture textbook series, allowing learners to use both resources in combination.
