As a beginner, Should I use genki or soumatome to get started.

Anyone else having troubles with. ツシンソ😅😂?

Ohayou gozaimasu. Good morning. Sumimasen, kyou Ocha and chat dekimasen. Sorry, I can't do Ocha and Chat this morning. I'm not feeling well. Mata raishuu! See you next week! Joe Sensei.

This week’s fact is about something simple that carries deep meaning in Japan: chopstick etiquette. At first glance, chopstick manners might look just like “rules”… But in Japan, they’re really about respect, memory and relationships. 🥢 Japan Fact Friday — Chopsticks & Meaning Chopsticks (箸・はし) are everyday tools in Japan, but how you use them matters just as much as what you eat. Here are a few common manners — and what they truly mean: ❌ Sticking chopsticks upright in rice This is only done at funerals as an offering to the dead. Doing this at the table reminds people of death — so it’s deeply uncomfortable. ❌ Passing food from chopsticks to chopsticks This mirrors a funeral ritual where bones are passed after cremation. Even if the intention is kind, the association is very strong. ❌ Pointing with chopsticks This can feel aggressive or rude — like pointing a finger at someone. ❌ Digging through dishes to “search” for foodCalled saguri-bashi, it suggests impatience or selfishness. ✅ Placing chopsticks neatly when not eatingThis shows care, calmness, and consideration for others. 🧠 The Deeper Meaning These manners aren’t about being strict or formal — they reflect core Japanese values: • respect for others• awareness of shared space• remembering ancestors and tradition• harmony at the table Even small actions communicate who you are. ✨ Why This Matters for Learners Understanding manners helps you understand the culture — not just the language. And honestly? Japanese people don’t expect perfection… they appreciate awareness. 🫵 Your Turn Which chopstick rule surprised you the most? Have you ever worried about making a chopstick mistake in Japan? Can you use chopsticks? Answer in English or Japanese 😊

Paired Speaking Practice is about giving us a chance to speak Japanese aiming for fluency in these set dialogues to build our conversation skills. Please message your partner, organise a time to chat and practise the dialogue. Report back here how you went. If you have time practice dialogue 1 and 2 to build your skills. @Ev Ginguene x @Aaron Eccles-Smith @Flo Ginguene x @Karen Claire Patdu @Cicely Love x @Fenny Kirmil @Lavanya Karthik x @Psych Butterfly @Harry Lewis x @J. Alexander Bennett Please let me know if there are any issues. Arigatou, Joe Sensei.