Do you know what’s better than being bilingual? Being trilingual! Adding another language to your repertoire not only increases your linguistic skills and learning abilities but also broadens your perspective and gives you a unique insight into another culture and way of life.
One such language that has always been popular and continues to be a crowd favourite is Japanese. Not only is Japan an economically and financially important market, especially in this part of the world, but it is also an integral part of the Singaporean culture. From anime and sushi to politeness and safety, our two cultures have a lot in common! It’s no wonder that many Singaporeans choose to take Japanese as yet another language to add to our linguistic arsenal.
If you’re considering taking Japanese lessons or already learning the language but could use an extra push, we can help! At Private Tutor SG, we have a team of native and fluent Japanese private tutors that can take you to a whole other level!
Overview of Our Japanese Tutoring Services
Beginners
Beginners in Japanese tutoring start by learning basic vocabulary, essential grammar, and simple sentence structures. They focus on mastering hiragana and katakana, which are the two primary syllabaries in Japanese. Tutors also help with correct pronunciation and listening skills using audio resources and simple dialogues.
Interactive learning methods like flashcards, language games, and multimedia content make lessons fun and engaging. Additionally, lessons include insights into basic cultural norms and everyday etiquette, preparing students for real-life interactions.
Casual Learners
Casual learners in Japanese tutoring focus on conversational skills to improve fluency in everyday situations. Lessons are tailored to the learner’s interests and schedule, making it easier to balance language learning with other commitments. Tutors teach practical vocabulary and expressions for daily life, travel, and social interactions.
Additionally, casual learners are exposed to Japanese customs, traditions, and contemporary trends. This cultural context enhances their understanding and appreciation of the language, making their learning experience more comprehensive and enjoyable.
Advanced Students
Advanced students in Japanese tutoring focus on learning complex grammar structures, advanced syntax, and formal Japanese. Tutors help expand their vocabulary in specialized areas such as business, literature, or technical fields, ensuring they can communicate effectively in various professional and academic contexts.
To improve fluency and precision, tutors provide practice through essays, presentations, and debates. Additionally, advanced students explore Japan’s culture and history by studying classical literature, historical texts, and current affairs, deepening their understanding and appreciation of the language.
Our Private Japanese Language Tutors
Our team of dedicated language teachers come from all walks of life. From native Japanese to highly proficient, our tutors have qualifications ranging from Bachelor’s Degrees to PhDs and are qualified to teach Japanese from beginner to advanced.
Not only are they handpicked based on their formidable academic qualifications, but we also place great emphasis on other skills such as teaching methods, patience, knowledge of Japanese culture, proven results, and adaptability.
Our tutors are skilled in all kinds of teaching methods from interactive learning sessions, practical exercises, conversational practice, immersive learning, and real-life applications. They are also trained to adapt closely to the individual learning styles and requirements of each student.
Why Get A Private Japanese Tutor?
So why get a private tutor? Wouldn’t a group class at a neighbourhood educational institution be enough?
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Private Tutoring vs Group Classes with Adapting Teaching Methods
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Unique Cultural Insights
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Skill Development and Confidence
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Faster Progression and Flexible Scheduling and Consistency
Private Tutoring vs Group Classes with Adapting Teaching Methods
Getting a private Japanese tutor means you have 100%, undivided attention. Compare this with group classes where you often have to “share” the tutor with other students, all of which learn at different paces and in different styles, and you’ve got less effective learning.
Having your tutor’s undivided attention also means that you can have lesson plans tailored to your learning pace and style. A class moving forward when you aren’t ready usually means you aren’t getting the most of your time, especially if you’re lagging behind. A private tutor can help build a strong, solid foundation in the language before moving you on to more advanced skills.
In addition, not all students learn the same way, just like not all teachers teach the same way.
By having a private tutor, your learning experience can be customised to YOUR needs. For example, if you are a visual learner, your tutor might use more characters, charts, and visual cues. However, if you are an audio learner, you might learn best by watching Japanese anime, and movies, or listening to talk shows or podcasts.
Unique Cultural Insights
Learning Japanese isn’t only about the language, but it is also about the culture. Having a private tutor means you can focus on what is driving YOU to learn the language so your interest is piqued to grow more.
Private tutors can provide more thorough insights into Japanese culture, customs, norms, and etiquette, effectively increasing your knowledge of the country and all aspects of it.
From anime and films to history and food, Japan is a fascinating country, and a private tutor might just give you unique insights into what makes it so!
Skill Development and Confidence
Anyone who has studied a second language can probably attest that one of the most significant barriers to learning is the fear of sounding silly or making mistakes. Self-consciousness can be exacerbated by group classes, as we are often fearful of standing up in class and making mistakes in front of a group of our peers.
With private lessons, all your conversational, written, and reading exercises are simply between you and your tutor. This might make you way more relaxed and reduce any anxiety that you might have speaking another language to others.
In addition, a dedicated tutor also means that you get to focus on your weak points and address any gaps in your learning. From writing and reading to listening comprehension and speaking, your tutor can work closely with you to focus on particular skills that you want to pay more attention to.
Faster Progression and Flexible Scheduling and Consistency
There are exceptions to every rule, but the overwhelming majority of statistics show that private tuition can dramatically improve grades and progression. By having a dedicated Japanese language tutor, learning the language will be way quicker and you’ll be on your way to conversations in no time!
Most of our students are busy bees with a packed schedule, which is why our tutors will try their utmost to accommodate whatever timing requests you might have. In addition, incorporating regular language lessons into your routine will also accelerate your learning curve, with a lesson plan that will be tailored to your style and pace.
Regular assessments will keep you accountable for your progress, and your tutor will monitor them closely with you. If you prefer, we also offer online classes that you can do at whichever time you like. While one-on-one instruction is typically more effective, some students prefer learning in a collaborative environment like a group class.
This way, you’ll get to practice with your peers, be exposed to more mistakes and challenges, and progress as a team!
Common Challenges Faced By Japanese Language Students
Japanese isn’t an easy language but with some quality instruction, dedication, and hard work, everyone can get fluent!
Japanese has three writing systems: Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji. Combine all three and like Chinese, there are thousands of characters! It can be overwhelming to memorize and learn all of them, so try using memorization techniques such as visualization, practice, chunking, or rhyming.
Grammar in the Japanese language is distinct and takes some getting used to, with the subject-order-verb sequences. You’ll need loads of practice and pattern recognition, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes!
Mastering pronunciation is crucial for effective conversational Japanese skills, so pay close attention to listening and speaking. If you already speak Chinese, you’re at a distinct advantage!
The Japanese language consists of many ways to say a certain word depending on how formal or polite you want to be, or who the person you are talking to is.
Japanese tutors can teach you which specific word to use in a particular situation, helping you avoid any faux pas that you might unconsciously blunder into.
Let’s face it, there aren’t THAT many Japanese speakers in Singapore, which will make practicing the language quite a challenge.
Your practice partner could be your tutor, but you can also turn to simple books, films, anime, music, and other sources where you can hear, read, or immerse yourself in the language and culture.
Of course, you can plan your next vacation with a quick trip to Japan! Not only will you get to truly experience the country and culture, but you could also develop a whole new perspective into the language.
Japanese Tuition Prices
We have different tutoring packages based on your level, frequency, and needs. Whether basic, intermediate, or advanced, we’ll be able to tailor a package just for you. Typically, a package of 12 private Japanese lessons of two hours per session will cost about $600 to $700. We can also do shorter durations or fewer sessions depending on your language goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have students ranging from little five-year-olds to teenagers and adults!
We recommend starting with two lessons weekly, but of course, the schedule can be tailored to your needs and goals.
Yes, they sure can! We offer group and private online Japanese classes at YOUR convenience!
Nope! You can start with the very basics with us. Our beginner Japanese lessons are specifically geared to those without any prior knowledge, while our advanced lessons are for those seeking to up their language skills.
After the first session, you can cancel your private Japanese lessons anytime if you inform us at least 24 hours in advance. You’ll have to pay for all the lessons that have already been conducted, and if you terminate less than 24 hours before your next lesson, you’ll incur a 50% charge of the lesson’s fee.