Study guides

[Spikeygal]

Hey there,

Could anyone please recommend any good study guides for the 四級 exam? I'm having trouble finding books on it in bookstores in my city. I know that there are a lot of websites that offer online resources, but I'm really after a book so I can practise without internet access. Is there anything that I'd be able to find in a UK bookstore that you could recommend?

Thanks for your time, it's much apprieciated.
Emma

[richvh]

Did you check the store?

[Spikeygal]

Thank you, richvh.
A quick question about this for anyone who can answer (sorry to be rude!): Does it have a list of the vocabulary and kanji that are needed for the test(s), or is it solely previous tests?

Thank you very much for your help.

[paul_b]

Spikeygal wrote:
Hirigana/Katakana: 100%

Not to answer your question but I can tell you that it's hiragana not hirigana.

[Spikeygal]

Woops! Thanks for pointing that out.

[clay]

Hi Spikeygal,

No need to be 'scared stiff.' Make kanji your friend by seeing it as a hobby. I think the intimidation factor goes down if you do.

A quick question about this for anyone who can answer (sorry to be rude!): Does it have a list of the vocabulary and kanji that are needed for the test(s), or is it solely previous tests?

I don't have very many 4 kyuu books. The actual tests (2005, 2004 and 2002 are in stock) don't have lists like that, but they are excellent if you have never taken the test.

If you are looking for a study guide, I recommend this book.

It does have lists scattered here and there (I wish it had the lists together), but it is great for practicing every area of the test except listening. It does have 2 CDs with it, but that is to read example sentences and not specifically for practicing the listening section.

Unicom just published this book this year.

EDIT: fixed link

[Spikeygal]

Thank you so much, clay! That's so helpful to me, thank you. That book seems to be just what I'm looking for. I think I'll cast my eye over some old tests as well, they sound like they may need some getting used to.

I can't say how grateful I am. ありがとう！