Summarize the following:
A way to start speaking Japanese is by learning some basic phrases like “how are you?”, which in Japanese is “Ogenki desu ka?” There are a lot of websites that list basic phrases and give audio exercises for practicing them. On your break at work or down time at home, spend a few minutes exploring these Japanese language websites. Then try using a newly learned phrase when you see a friend. The Japanese Broadcasting Corporation (NHK), for example, offers basic Japanese lessons on their website at https://www.nhk.or.jp/lesson/english/. If you have a smart phone, search for “learn Japanese” in your application store and you’ll find a list of free applications you can use to learn Japanese. Applications are a fun tool to learn new words and phrases on the go, or even when you’re relaxing in bed! If you’re waiting for a ride to pick you up, take out your phone and use one of these applications to learn how to say “you’re late!” in Japanese. Applications like Duolingo and Memrise also allow you to practice on the computer. Sometimes when you have free time you might be in the mood to watch a movie or TV show. When that happens, try watching a Japanese movie or show with English subtitles. Watching movies and shows is a fun way to get more familiar with how sentences and specific words sound in Japanese.  Netflix and Amazon Video have Japanese TV shows and movies. To find them, search for “Japanese.” Japanese shows and movies on English streaming video sites will come with English subtitles so you can understand what they are saying. Just like with movies, listening to Japanese music will give you exposure to how to speak the language naturally. When you’re tidying up your house or doing chores, put some Japanese music on in the background so you can get used to hearing the language. If you like pop, try listening to the hit boy band Arashi. If you’re into rock, try L’Arc-en-Ciel. Music and movies are also good introductions to Japanese culture. A way of learning the Japanese words for things you use every day is to label objects you have in your house with their Japanese name. Take your fridge, for example. Write the Japanese word for it, reizōko, on a piece of paper and tape it to your fridge door. That way, every time you open it for a snack, you’ll see the word and eventually remember it without looking.
Take advantage of online resources. Download an application. Watch a Japanese TV show or movie in your free time. Listen to Japanese music while you’re cleaning. Label household objects with their Japanese names.