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The New 'Tobira' Series: A Comprehensive Update for Intermediate Japanese Learners

Today marks the release of the newly revamped edition of the long-beloved Japanese textbook, "Tobira," which first hit shelves in 2009. This widely recognized comprehensive guide is now split into two volumes: "Intermediate Japanese Tobira I" and "Intermediate Japanese Tobira II." This restructuring aims to better cater to the diverse needs and learning styles of mid-level Japanese learners.

Overview of the New Series

The comprehensive update reflects a commitment to enhancing students' learning experiences. The new volumes will be available both in print and as electronic versions starting September 25, 2025. The division of the content into two parts allows for an organized approach: Volume I covers lessons one through eight, while Volume II will encompass lessons nine through fifteen, expected to be published in September 2026.

Enhanced Content

The themes and topics of the previous edition have been preserved; however, the materials within each lesson have been significantly updated. This includes refreshing the reading materials and dialogue texts, as well as making improvements to the vocabulary lists. These changes ensure the content remains relevant and engaging.

A Structured Approach to Learning

One of the standout features of the new series is its three-unit structure. At the end of each unit, learners will find engaging projects designed to deepen their understanding and stimulate intellectual curiosity. The focus is on self-directed learning that ignites creativity and enhances communication skills. Activities range from collaborative projects to presentations, ensuring students have ample opportunities to practice.

Clearly Defined Learning Goals

The doors to each lesson now feature a “Can-do List,” clearly outlining the learning objectives for that particular chapter. This makes it easy for learners to track their progress and set personal targets.

Seamless Transition from Beginner to Intermediate

In addressing the challenge of transitioning from beginner to intermediate levels, the reading materials have been effectively split into two segments. This strategy reduces the learning burden and aids comprehension.

Engaging Activities and Resources

Following the reading selections, students will encounter comprehension questions and related activities that make learning enjoyable and effective. Additionally, the dialogues now include listening practice, enabling learners to engage with the conversations in a multi-faceted manner, enhancing both reading and listening skills.

Visual Aids for Better Understanding

The conversation practice sections feature model dialogues presented in a flow format, making it visually comprehensible and straightforward for learners to adopt functional speech patterns.

Extra Learning Materials

Vocabulary lists and dialogue scripts have been compiled into a separate booklet, allowing learners easy access for cross-referencing. Moreover, the grammar and expression notes have been made clearer, addressing common learner mistakes with additional explanations.

Digital Learning Resources

To further enrich the learning experience, the associated website offers a range of online resources, including audio distributions and supplementary activities. This digital component allows students to access additional materials that support their studies.

Authors Behind the Series

The revitalization of the 'Tobira' series has been overseen by a distinguished team of educators:

• - Mayumi Oka, lecturer at the Middlebury Japanese School
• - Michio Tsutsui, emeritus professor at the University of Washington
• - Satoru Ishikawa, lecturer at Boston University
• - Shoko Emori, lecturer at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
• - Junko Kondo, language instructor at Nanzan University
• - Yoshiro Hanai, associate professor and program director of Japanese Studies at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh.

Publication Information

• - Title: Intermediate Japanese Tobira I
• - Authors: Mayumi Oka (Editor), Michio Tsutsui (Supervisor), Satoru Ishikawa, Shoko Emori, Junko Kondo, Yoshiro Hanai
• - Price: 2,860 JPY (2,600 JPY plus 10% tax)
• - Format: B5 size, 232 pages
• - ISBN: 978-4801110182
• - Publisher: Kuroshio Publishing Co., Ltd.
• - Release Date: September 25, 2025

For those interested in exploring the new editions of ‘Tobira,’ sample materials can be found on their website. As a leading publisher specializing in linguistics, Japanese materials, and resources for learning English, Kuroshio Publishing has consistently provided quality educational material since its founding in 1948.