Nakama 1 is a complete, flexible introductory program designed to present the fundamentals of the Japanese language to college students. Presented in two parts, Nakama 1a and Nakama 1b, the program focuses on proficiency-based language learning, emphasizes practical communication and student interaction, and fosters the development of all four language skills and cultural awareness. Thematically organized chapters focus on high-frequency communicative situations and introduce students to the Japanese language and its three writing systems: hiragana, katakana, and kanji. Maintaining the program's balanced approach, the new edition features updated technology resources, new authentic art, and practical, contemporary vocabulary to enhance both teaching and learning.