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John Marvin

Instructors have provided the following information to generally describe what to expect in their classes.

Japanese

Teaching style
My approach to teaching emphasizes a robust understanding of the fundamental grammar structures of Japanese. By building a solid foundation based on this understanding, I believe Japanese second language learners can more smoothly progress their mastery of the language. To be able to build this grammar foundation it is crucial to understand the three writing systems of Japanese (hiragana, katakana, and kanji). As necessary, English will be used to explain grammar concepts. In addition to grammar, I believe that it is important to practice natural, realistic conversations with careful attention paid to Japanese cultural customs and norms. Above all, I want my class to be a comfortable space for students to be able to experiment with the language and make mistakes as only through such “mistakes” can higher level of fluency be obtained.

Grading:
Attendance and Engagement – 20%
Homework – 20%
Assessment [Quizzes, Tests, etc.] – 60%

Background and other interests
I was born and raised in Kansas. I went on to obtain my undergraduate degree in Anthropology at the State University of New York, Albany with a focus on archaeology and historical linguistics. I then returned to Kansas where I obtained an M.A. (specializing in Japanese language and culture) from the East Asian Languages and Culture department at the University of Kansas.

For the past three years I have been an amateur performer of the traditional Japanese art of rakugo and so far, I have performed the stories Shibahama, Toki Soba, and Shinigami at the JCCC Japan Festival and the KU Lunar New Year Festival. I also enjoy Japanese classical and contemporary films from Seven Samurai to Perfect Days and am currently working on creating a documentary about the art form of rakugo