Pop Culture through Language

Catalog description

This course explores Japanese language and culture through various forms of popular media, including manga, anime, video games, movies, TV series and J-Pop music. Students will engage with authentic materials to enhance their understanding of contemporary Japanese language while gaining insights into modern Japanese society and cultural trends. By analyzing these media, students will expand their vocabulary, improve listening comprehension and develop their ability to critically evaluate cultural products. The course is designed for upper-beginner to lower-intermediate students looking to apply their language skills in real-world, culturally relevant contexts. Through discussions, presentations and creative projects, students will strengthen both their linguistic abilities and their cultural literacy. Instruction is in Japanese.