How do I preparefor JLPT N5 level?
Answers
Answer:
The N5 tests very basic Japanese. You need to know hiragana, katakana and your first hundred or so kanji. In addition, you will need to know basic Japanese grammar and vocabulary. There is also a listening section.
The N5 and N4 are designed to test classroom Japanese. The best way to prepare is probably to take an introductory course in Japanese. Failing that, work through a textbook.
There are workbooks for the every level of the JLPT. I recommend buying these books and working through them. There are two kinds. One variety is split by language category- kanji, vocabulary, grammar, reading, listening. The other variety is a bunch of practice tests. Different people work in different ways, so the best choice of workbook really depends on how you learn and what your outside obligations are. Make sure to buy new books, because standards change over time.
Finally, the most important thing to learn before taking the JLPT N5 may actually be how to take the test. You need your postcard. Pencils, erasers and a watch are permitted on your desk. Remove erasers from the wrapper. You may want to bring a pencil sharpener to use between sections. You may want extra pencils in case your tip breaks.
If your cellphone goes off during the listening section, you fail the test, so turn it off. If you are late to even one section by one minute you will fail the entire test. Figure out where your test will be held and how you plan to get there. There will be a break between sections, so pack a lunch and bring a drink. Take your trash home with you.
Finally, you need to fill in circles on answer sheets with a pencil. This takes time. Practicing may make you more efficient. If you take practice tests, you can learn what your proper pacing should be for the real test. Note that you do not have time to go back and fill circles in in the listening section. Fill them in as you go along. Also, you will not be allowed to keep the question sheet, so feel free write all over it if this will help you.
You can not reread anything in the listening section. If you briefly lose focus, you will probably get the question wrong. Take notes during dictation and use them them to answer the questions. A listening workbook should have something like a CD you can use to practice the note taking process.
Good luck!