to be held on Saturday, June 5, 1999
The Japan America Society of Chicago will serve as the Secretariat as the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Chicago presents the JETRO Business Japanese Test on Saturday, June 5, 1999 at a downtown Chicago site. The Test targets primarily business people whose first language is not Japanese. JETRO is a Japanese quasi-governmental organization which supports trade between Japan and other nations. The Society will administer the test on behalf of JETRO. The application deadline is April 9, 1999.
Reflecting the international importance of the Japanese economy, interest in the Japanese language remains strong and international exchanges have assumed even greater importance. The number of those studying Japanese for business communications continues to increase. In response to the demand for the study of every day business Japanese, JETRO established the first government authorized business Japanese proficiency test in 1996.
The overall examination consists of two stages. The first, to be administered in Chicago on June 5, 1999, is based on listening and reading comprehension. Three levels of the test may be taken: Level 1 ($50), Level 2 ($35), and Level 3 ($35). Only those passing the highest level of that test are eligible to advance to the oral communications segment.
JETRO will directly inform the successful candidates of the details to objectively measure and evaluate the level of Business Japanese proficiency of non-Japanese nationals in a variety of circumstances. The proficiency examination places greater emphasis on an ability to understand and utilize Japanese in practical business situations rather than on the traditional methods which focus on a knowledge of Japanese vocabulary and grammar. Those who pass both levels of the examination are expected to enhance their employment opportunities with Japanese corporations and/or American companies doing business with Japanese firms at home or abroad.
A bi-lingual booklet, Guide to JETRO Business Japanese Proficiency Test, includes additional information and sample questions. The booklet, and test application information, is currently available by writing to the Japan America Society of Chicago, 225 W. Wacker Drive, Suite 2250, Chicago, IL 60606. Telephone: (312) 263-3049 and Fax: (312) 263-6120 inquiries are welcome.
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to the Committee on Japanese Studies.