Japanese Course for Absolute Beginners (Letters, Alphabet) Course Syllabus

This course is designed for absolute beginners and focuses exclusively on mastering the Japanese kana scripts—Hiragana and Katakana. Through structured, hands-on lessons, you'll learn to read and write all characters with correct stroke order, distinguish similar symbols, and build recognition speed. The course includes step-by-step demonstrations, mnemonic aids, and repetitive practice drills to ensure retention. With approximately 2.5 hours of total content, this program lays the essential foundation for further Japanese study. Lifetime access allows you to revisit lessons and reinforce your skills at your own pace.

Module 1: Introduction to Japanese Writing

Estimated time: 0.3 hours

• Overview of the three scripts: Kanji, Hiragana, and Katakana
• Understanding when each script is used
• Setting up an effective practice routine
• Introduction to learning tools and resources

Module 2: Mastering Hiragana – Part 1

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Writing and pronouncing the “A – N” row (あ–ん)
• Step-by-step stroke order demonstrations
• Mnemonic techniques for memorizing character shapes
• Reading practice for basic syllables

Module 3: Mastering Hiragana – Part 2

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Writing and pronouncing voiced and semi-voiced consonants (が–ぽ)
• Introduction to small kana (ゃ, ゅ, ょ)
• Speed-writing drills for fluency
• Reading practice with mixed Hiragana characters

Module 4: Introduction to Katakana

Estimated time: 0.3 hours

• Writing and pronouncing the “A – N” row in Katakana (ア–ン)
• Understanding Katakana’s role in representing foreign words
• Common loanword examples for each character
• Stroke order and visual distinction from Hiragana

Module 5: Completing Katakana & Combinations

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Writing the full Katakana set including voiced sounds (ガ–ポ)
• Incorporating small kana in Katakana (ャ, ュ, ョ)
• Practice reading and writing foreign names and branded terms
• Recognizing common Katakana combinations

Module 6: Kana Reinforcement & Practice

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Mixed Hiragana and Katakana reading exercises
• Flashcard drills for character retention
• Timed quizzes and speed recognition practice
• Distinguishing visually similar characters to avoid common errors

Prerequisites

• No prior knowledge of Japanese required
• Basic English reading skills
• Access to writing materials or digital note-taking tool

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Read and write all Hiragana and Katakana characters with correct stroke order
• Recognize and pronounce Japanese syllables accurately
• Distinguish between similar-looking kana characters
• Read simple Japanese texts such as menus, signs, and loanwords
• Build a solid foundation for advancing to vocabulary, grammar, and JLPT N5 preparation