Unit 6 - Section 2: Colloquial Contractions
Media and News Japanese
Comprehend news broadcasts, articles, and media content with advanced reading comprehension strategies.
News Article Structure and Vocabulary
Common news phrases:
- ～によると、 - "According to..."
- ～が明らかになった。 - "It became clear that..."
- ～という情報です。 - "It is reported that..."
Event reporting:
- ～で～が起こった。 - "[Event] occurred at [location]."
Understanding Broadcast News
News language features:
- Formal verb forms: ~ています → ～ております (broadcast formal)
- Named source: Always mention information source for credibility
- Neutral tone: News avoids emotional language
- Key structure: Who, What, Where, When are front-loaded
Media Comprehension Strategy
Effective approach to news:
- First listen: Catch main idea without understanding every word
- Read transcript: Text helps clarify what you heard
- Look up key vocabulary: Focus on content words, not particles
- Compare sources: Read same story from multiple outlets
Study Tips
Master Media Japanese:
- Start with simpler news: NHK Easy News is perfect for learners
- Regular practice: Consistent exposure builds comprehension
- Combine modalities: Read, listen, and discuss news
- Stay informed: Learning Japanese while learning about Japan
Course Navigation
Study Tips
- Read each example carefully
- Practice pronunciation aloud
- Create your own sentences to reinforce memory
- Finish the section quiz