NAKAMA 1 is a complete flexible introductory program designed to present the fundamentals of the Japanese language to users The NAKAMA 1 program focuses on proficiency-based language learning emphasizes practical communication & student interaction & fosters the development of all four language skills & cultural awareness Thematically organized chapters focus on high-frequency communicative situations & introduce students to the Japanese language & its three writing systems hiragana katakana & kanji Maintaining the program's balanced approach the new edition features updated technology resources updated culture & contemporary vocabulary to enhance both teaching & learning