How to Say “Listen to the Teacher” in Japanese Importance of Listening in the Classroom Strategies for Effective Listening FAQs

As a student of Japanese, it is essential to know how to respectfully address your teacher and follow their instructions. Knowing how to say “listen to the teacher” is a basic yet crucial phrase that will help you navigate the classroom environment effectively.

Formal and Polite Phrase:

先生のお話を聞きましょう (Sensei no ohanashi o kikimashou)

This phrase is the most formal and polite way to say “listen to the teacher.” It is appropriate to use in all settings, including classrooms, meetings, and presentations.

Usage:

• To begin a lesson or presentation: “先生のお話を聞きましょう。(Let us listen to the teacher’s talk.)”
• To remind students to pay attention: “先生のお話を聞きましょう。(Please listen to the teacher.)”
• To express agreement or understanding: “はい、先生のお話を聞きましょう。(Yes, let us listen to the teacher.)”

Informal Phrase:

せんせ、聞いててください (Sensei, kiitete kudasai)

This phrase is somewhat informal and more commonly used in casual settings between students and teachers. It means “Teacher, please listen.”

Usage:

• To ask the teacher a question: “せんせ、聞いててください。質問があります。(Teacher, please listen. I have a question.)”
• To request clarification: “せんせ、聞いててください。もう一度説明していただけますか。(Teacher, please listen. Could you please explain it again?)”
• To express appreciation: “せんせ、聞いててください。いつもありがとうございます。(Teacher, please listen. Thank you for always listening.)”

Additional Phrases and Expressions

Other ways to say “listen”:

• 聞く (kiku) – to listen (general)
• 耳を傾ける (mimi o katamukeru) – to listen attentively
• 集中する (shuchu suru) – to focus or concentrate

Phrases to indicate understanding:

• わかりました (wakarimashita) – I understand.
• はい (hai) – Yes.
• どういたしまして (douitashimashite) – You’re welcome.

Phrases to request clarification:

• もう一度おっしゃっていただけますか。(Mou ichido osshatte itadakemasuka?) – Could you say it again?
• もっと詳しく教えてください。(Motto kuwashiku oshietekudasai) – Could you explain it in more detail?

Listening is a fundamental skill for effective language learning and academic success. In the Japanese classroom, listening to the teacher is crucial for the following reasons:

• Comprehension: Listening allows students to understand the lesson content, follow instructions, and comprehend complex ideas.
• Engagement: Active listening helps students stay engaged in the lesson and participate meaningfully.
• Participation: By listening attentively, students can ask questions, contribute to discussions, and build upon the teacher’s ideas.
• Note-taking: Good listening skills enable students to take accurate notes and capture key points for future reference.
• Respect: Listening to the teacher shows respect for their authority and acknowledges the importance of their knowledge.

To improve your listening comprehension in Japanese class, consider the following strategies:

• Prepare beforehand: Review the lesson material before class to familiarize yourself with key concepts and vocabulary.
• Focus on the main idea: Listen for the main points of the lesson and try to connect them with what you already know.
• Take notes: Jot down important points, keywords, and any questions you have.
• Ask clarifying questions: Do not hesitate to ask for clarification if you do not understand something.
• Practice active listening: Maintain eye contact with the teacher, nod or give verbal cues to indicate understanding.
• Review your notes: Go over your notes after class to reinforce your understanding and identify areas for improvement.

Listening Practice Resources

• NHK World Japan: Provides free online videos, podcasts, and articles in Japanese with subtitles and transcripts.
• JapanesePod101: Offers a wide range of listening exercises, dialogues, and grammar explanations.
• Coursera: Hosts online Japanese courses that include video lectures and listening assignments.
• Lang-8: Connects you with native Japanese speakers who can provide feedback on your listening comprehension.
• Japanese Drama and Anime: Watching Japanese dramas or anime with subtitles can help you improve your listening skills in a more engaging way.

1. How do I say “I’m listening” in Japanese?

• 聞いています (kiite imasu)

2. Is it important to listen carefully in class?

• Yes, active listening is crucial for comprehension, engagement, and academic success.

3. What are some strategies for improving listening comprehension?

• Prepare beforehand, focus on the main idea, take notes, ask questions, and practice active listening.

4. Where can I find Japanese listening practice materials?

• NHK World Japan, JapanesePod101, Coursera, Lang-8, and Japanese dramas/anime are all good options.

5. How often should I practice listening to Japanese?

• As often as possible. Even short daily listening sessions can make a significant improvement.

6. Is it possible to learn Japanese without listening practice?

• While it is possible to learn some Japanese grammar and vocabulary without listening practice, it is not recommended. Listening is essential for developing fluency and comprehension.

7. Can I learn Japanese just by listening to music?

• While listening to Japanese music can improve your listening skills to some extent, it is not a substitute for comprehensive language learning. Music lyrics often contain colloquialisms and slang that may not be suitable for formal or academic settings.

8. How long does it take to become fluent in Japanese listening comprehension?

• It varies depending on individual learning styles and practice habits. However, with regular and consistent listening practice, you can expect to see noticeable improvement within a few months.