JLPT N5 Speaking: Make Plans With Friends

Introduction

The JLPT N5 focuses heavily on basic conversation skills. This article will guide you through making plans with friends, a common scenario that’s crucial for passing the exam’s speaking section. We’ll cover essential phrases, vocabulary, and realistic dialogue examples. Remember, it’s about communicating clearly, not perfectly!

Key Phrases & Vocabulary

Here are some vital phrases you’ll need:

• Let’s… (～しよう – ~shiyō) – This is incredibly common for suggesting activities. Example: “Let’s go to the park!”
• Do you want to…? (～たいですか？ – ~tai desu ka?) – A polite way of asking if someone wants to do something.
• What are you doing today? (今日は何してるの？ – Kyō wa nani shiteru no?) – Great for starting a conversation and finding out their availability.
• How about…? (～はどうですか？ – ~wa dō desu ka?) – Suggesting an alternative.
• That sounds good! (いいね！ – Ii ne!) – A positive response.
• Okay, let’s… (いいよ、～しよう – Ii yo, ~shiyō) – Agreeing to a plan.

Useful Vocabulary:

• 公園 (Kouen) – Park
• 映画館 (Eigakan) – Movie Theater
• カフェ (Kafe) – Cafe
• ランチ (Ranchi) – Lunch
• 買い物 (Kaimono) – Shopping

Sample Dialogue 1: Suggesting a Casual Activity

Person A: こんにちは！(Konnichiwa!) – Hello!

Person B: こんにちは！今日は何してるの？(Konnichiwa! Kyō wa nani shiteru no?)

Person A: 映画館に行こうよ！(Eigakan ni ikou yo!) – Let’s go to the movie theater!

Person B: いいね！(Ii ne!) – That sounds good! おすすめの映画ある？ (Osusume no eiga aru?) – Do you have a recommended movie?

Common Mistakes & Corrections

Mistake 1: Saying “行こう” (ikou) without context. This can sound abrupt.

Correction: “映画館に行こうよ！” (Eigakan ni ikou yo!) – “Let’s go to the movie theater!” adding “よ!” (yo!) gives it a softer, more friendly tone.

Mistake 2: Using overly formal language like “～ください” (~kudasai). For friends, simpler phrasing is better.

Sample Dialogue 2: Making Concrete Plans

Person A: じゃあ、明日カフェに行く？(Jaa, asu kafe ni iku?) – Then, shall we go to a cafe tomorrow?

Person B: いいよ！12時にどこがいいかな？(Ii yo! Jūni-ji ni doko ga ii kana?) – Okay! Where would you like to go at 12 o’clock?

Person A: あのカフェに行ってみようか。 (Ano kafe ni itte miyou ka) – Let’s try that cafe.

Person B: うん、いいね！(Un, ii ne!) – Yeah, good!

Tips for the JLPT N5 Speaking Exam

• Practice Regularly: The more you speak, the more comfortable you’ll become.
• Listen to Native Speakers: Helps with pronunciation and intonation.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Make Mistakes: It’s okay! Examiners want to see if you can communicate, not perfect grammar. Focus on clear speech.
• Use Gestures (Sparingly): Small gestures can help express your meaning.