Japanese tutoring - find Japanese language help online

Learning Japanese as a second language presents unique challenges for native speakers of any language, including English. While English is an alphabet-based language, Japanese is a language based on syllables. The crucial difference in the foundations of these two languages can make self-study challenging. Face-to-face interaction with instructors can be most helpful, and for those students who need extra help, personal tutoring can provide an educational boost.

Finding a tutor for young students

As the brain develops, so does the ability to separate languages. Studies have shown that the younger a child is when introduced to a foreign language, the more fluent he or she will be in that language. It is never too early to begin teaching a child to understand or speak Japanese.

Since courses in Japanese are often more prevalent in later grades, students from kindergarten through middle school might fare better with a private tutor. These resources might help:

• Paid tutoring, whether through an individual or a service can help a student start from scratch.
• Some libraries and community centers offer specialized classes geared toward teaching children a new language. These classes are often free of charge.
• Video and audio programs, including software, such as Rosetta Stone, can immerse a child in the sounds of Japanese. Simply hearing the language throughout the day can help anyone pick up on the basic words and phrases.

Language tutoring for older students

High schools are preparing students for a changing world by implementing more extensive language requirements. As a result, these students are likely to have access to courses in various languages, including Japanese. If your high school student is struggling to learn the nuances of Japanese, these resources could help:

• Look for after-school tutoring from teachers. School teachers who provide individual tutoring after school, before school and during study periods can be instrumental in helping a student's knowlege flourish.
• College students who are already fluent in Japanese often tutor to make extra money. If several students are interested in taking their study of the Japanese language to the next level, a session with a tutor followed by independent study groups could be a promising route.
• Once a student has a strong base of understanding through face-to-face learning, individual study can help widen his or her vocabulary. Free online services, such as online dictionaries, video and audio tutors, and support communities for second language learners are great options for those who prefer to work in solitude.

Find a Japanese language tutor for college and beyond

According to the Japan Foundation, over 46 percent of those who take the Japanese Language Proficiency Test are college or graduate school students. Tutoring for college students can be found in a variety of places, including online tutoring and paid study. Other options include swapping services--trading your expertise in calculus or biology for lessons in Japanese, for example--or choosing an exchange program to fully immerse yourself in the language and culture.

Regardless of the age of the student or the amount of tutoring help needed, there are many online resources that can help you find assistance. Our TutorFinder can help you search a database of helpful tutors based on location, subject and grade level. The right language tutor can help raise your grade point average and eventually, those lessons could help further your career.