A Study on the Presentation of Purpose-Expressing Grammar “Tameni” and “Youni” in Elementary Japanese Textbooks

Abstract

This research consists purposes were 1. to analyze and compare the content, grammatical explanations, and exercises regarding the usage of the purposive expressions “Tameni” and “Youni” appearing in elementary Japanese textbooks and 2. to propose instructional guidelines for these grammar points suitable for the context of Thai learners. This study employed a qualitative research approach using documentary research methodology. The research instrument was a content analysis form developed based on theoretical frameworks. The target group comprised three elementary Japanese textbooks widely used in Thai educational institutions: Minna no Nihongo, Akiko to Tomodachi and Daichi, selected through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using content analysis to compare distinctive features and observations. The results revealed that 1) In terms of content presentation, each textbook has distinct emphases. Minna no Nihongo provides the clearest explanation regarding verb volition. Daichi is notable for specifying restrictions on the use of the potential form. Akiko to Tomodachi emphasizes learning through situational contexts. However, a significant observation is that all three textbooks fail to clearly specify the condition regarding subject unity in the main and subordinate clauses, and they lack exercises designed to prevent errors stemming from Negative Transfer and 2) Instructional guidelines for Thai learners should emphasize comparing the differences between volitional and non-volitional verbs, verifying the subject of the sentence, and providing sufficient input to mitigate negative transfer from the Thai word “Puea,” which encompasses all contexts.