Copyright: Kanji Writer! v1.0 © 1994 ComCul Int.


CCI Kanji Guess
 Kanji Writer!: Contents Menu

Welcome to Kanji Writer!.

This program is shareware. If after a reasonable amount of time, you find this program to be useful and have not yet registered, please help support future upgrades and other similar programs by doing so.

To learn how to use help, press the F1 function key. To find out more about Kanji Writer!, select on of the topic below.

Table of Contents:

Descriptions:	Trouble shooting:

What is Kanji?	Adding TrueType Fonts

What is Kanji Writer!?

Tests:	Product Information:

Objective	Registration

Selecting Modules	What is Shareware?

Using the Index	Disclaimer Agreement

Performing a Test	Other Products...

Note:	This program contains on-line context-sensitive help.  To activate this feature use the F1 function key while the object is selected.

You must place the program files into the same directory as Kanji for Fun!


What is Kanji?

The Japanese writing system is made up of two syllabic scripts, called Hiragana and Katakana (which are often referred to as Kana), and thousands of Chinese characters called Kanji.  Each of these three scripts have different functions.

Hiragana (one type of Kana) is used mostly to write grammatical elements such as verb endings (i.e., Bob is going to the park) and particles (i.e. Bob is going to the park).  It is also sometimes used to write native Japanese words, and is the first writing system introduced to school children in Japan.

Katakana (the other type of Kana) is used mostly to write English loan-words and proper nouns (i.e., people's names, with the exception of Japanese, Chinese, and Korean ones  --  Bob is going to the park).  This writing system is introduced to school children only after they have mastered Hiragana.

Kanji are used to write the core meaning of the Japanese vocabulary (i.e., Bob is going to the park).  Kanji were adopted from China around the 15th century and have in some cases, been modified from their Chinese counterpart (referred to as askokuji or national characters).  The official Kanji list approved in 1981 (called the Joyo Kanji) consists of 1945 characters.  School children learn 1006 of these characters by the time they have finished their 6th year of schooling.

<more>


 Kanji Dictionaries

There are a number of ways to classify and identify Kanji characters.

The Radical System

The most common way is by using the radical system that was first introduced during the first century in the classical Chinese dictionary called the shuowen jiezi (Chinese pronunciation) or setsumon kaiji (Japanese pronunciation).  As such, Chinese characters were classified under 540 subheadings (radicals).  Later in 1716 the kangxi zidian (kouki jiten, in Japanese) reduced the number of subheadings to 214.  Current day dictionaries use this 214-radical system, which is known as the standard or parent form of a kanji character.

The problem with using this system is that the Joyo kanji list contains simplified kanji (from the Chinese counter parts).  The formation of this list has resulted in disappearance of some radicals from their characters.  Thus, a special radical Index is needed to determine the abbreviated form of these radicals.  Another problem is that a single character can contain more than one element that looks like a radical.  So which one do you use?

The On/Kun Reading

This method is similar to romanized dictionaries (i.e. English).  Yet, each character can have more than one sound.  Also, a single sound can have more than one character.  This is further complicated by the fact that the On reading (the Chinese, or phonetic reading) can further be classified into 4 more readings (Han reading or kan'on, Wu reading or goon, Tang reading or touon, and the Popular reading or kan'youon).  The Kun reading is the Japanese (or explanatory) reading.

The Core Reading (used in Kanji Writer!)

This is perhaps the simplest way to classify kanji for non-Japanese and Chinese speakers.  A core reading is usually a single word that grasps the fundamental concept of the kanji character. The advantage of this system is 4 fold. (1), it gives the character's most important meaning; (2), a single concise meaning is easier to memorize than many abstract meanings;  (3), it helps the student understand the similarities and differences between kanji synonyms; and (4), this meaning helps link the meaning of compounded kanji together.

Kanji Writer! uses the core reading of the kanji character to help students learn and remember kanji efficiently and effectively.


Kanji list
 What is Kanji Writer!?

Kanji Writer was designed as an add-on tool for Kanji for Fun!

It is a simple utility that is used to help you learn the writing of some 1,000 kanji when prompted with the English core reading.. To find out more go to...

Objective


 Selecting Modules

Each module contains 80 kanji (the exception being module 13). These modules are divided into grades which correspond to the Japanese educational system.

Only one module can be selected at a time.

Modules are activated only if the corresponding TrueType font is installed in Windows. If a module is not installed, then a red circle (with a line through) it will cover the corresponding module button. Additional modules can only be obtained by registering Kanji for Fun! (see Other Products...)

see also:

Adding TrueType Fonts


 Objective

The object of Kanji Writer! is to draw the kanji that represents its respective core reading. Once you have drawn your kanji, click on the Eye Button to see the correct kanji.

For step-by-step instructions see Performing a Test

see also:

Selecting Modules

Using the Index


 Using the Index

The index contains 80 kanji characters.  The type of characters depend on which module has been selected (see: Selecting Modules).  The name of the module appears in the caption of the index window.

To select or remove kanji from the test, simply click on the corresponding character. Characters included on the test will appear red.

When a character gets the focus (either by clicking or using the tab key), it is shown on the right side of the index screen along with its core reading.on the top.

start button  (Alt+S or Enter)

This button will use the current selection and start the test. A minimum of 5 kanji are required for a tesr.

all/none button  (Alt+A)

Using this button has three effects...

First click 	- removes all kanji from the test

Second click 	- adds all kanji to the test

Third click 	- will restore the kanji that were used (if less than 80) on the test.

cancel button  (Alt+C or Esc)

This button will cancel any selections made while in the index and return to the test screen.


 Performing a Test

Follow these steps to use Kanji Writer!.

(1)	Go to the index.

(2)	Choose the test characters.

(4)	Click on the Start Test button to go back to the main screen.

(5)	Click on the Start button located on the left-side.

(6)	An English core reading will appear. Draw the kanji that matches this meaning by using the mouse over the Kanji Drawing Box (the big box on the right).

  * to erase the drawn kanji, use the right mouse button

(7)	After drawing your Kanji, click on the Kanji? (Eye) Button or the Kanji Picture Box (the big box on the left). The correct kanji will be shown (and the Correct/Wrong Buttons will be enabled).

  * to hide the kanji again, click the Eye button or the Kanji Picture box

(8)	Click the appropriate Correct/Wrong Buttons to record your answer and go to the next kanji.

Your score, which kanji number you are on, and the total number of kanji on the test is shown at the bottom of the test screen. The test will end once all the kanji have been used.

You can quit the test any time by selecting the Quit Button.

To exit Kanji Writer!, double-click on the Windows Control Bar


 How to Quit

You can quit a test any time by selecting the Quit Button.

To exit Kanji Writer!, double-click on the Windows Control Bar


 Adding TrueType Fonts

The grade one TrueType character set must be installed before running Kanji Writer!.

All other KWKanji fonts can be loaded as desired.

It is assumed that you have installed and are successfully using Kanji for Fun! Kanji Writer! should be placed in the same directory as Kanji for Fun! to work.

Consult the Kanji for Fun! on-line help for additional information.

Note:  If Kanji Writer! has not been registered, only the first module will work (regardless of how many modules you have previously ordered through ComCul International).


 Adding Sound

Kanji Writer! has no additional sounds other than the standard Windows' beep.


 Registration

Select one of following topics:

What is Shareware?

Disclaimer Agreement

How to Register

Other Products

Order Form


 What is Shareware?

Shareware distribution gives users a chance to try software before buying it.  If you try a Shareware program and continue using it, you are expected to register.  Individual programs differ on details -- some request registration while others require it, some specify a maximum trial period.  With registration, you get anything from the simple right to continue using the software to an updated program with printed manual.

Copyright laws apply to both Shareware and commercial software, and the copyright holder retains all rights, with a few specific exceptions as stated in the Disclaimer-Agreement. Shareware authors are accomplished programmers, just like commercial authors, and the programs are of comparable quality (In both cases, there are good programs and bad ones!).  The main difference is in the method of distribution.  The author specifically grants the right to copy and distribute the software, either to all and sundry or to a specific group.  For example, some authors require written permission before a commercial disk vendor may copy their Shareware.

Shareware is a distribution method, not a type of software.  You should find software that suits your needs and pocketbook, whether it's commercial or Shareware. The Shareware system makes fitting your needs easier, because you can try before you buy.  And because the overhead is low, prices are low also.  Shareware has the ultimate money-back guarantee -- if you don't use the product, you don't pay for it.


 Disclaimer Agreement

Users of Kanji for Fun! must accept this disclaimer of warranty:

"Kanji Writer!" is supplied as is.  The author disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, including, without limitation, the warranties of merchant ability and of fitness for any purpose.  The author assumes no liability for damages, direct or consequential, which may result from the use of Kanji Writer!."

Kanji Writer! is a "shareware program" and is provided at no charge to the user for evaluation.  Feel free to share it with your friends, but please do not give it away altered or as part of another system.  The essence of "user-supported" software is to provide personal computer users with quality software without high prices, and yet to provide incentive for programmers to continue to develop new products.  If you find this program useful and find that you are using Kanji Writer! and continue to use Kanji Writer! after a reasonable trial period, you must make a registration payment of $15.00 (US funds) to ComCul International.  The $15.00 (US funds) registration fee will license one copy for use on any one computer at any one time.  You must treat this software just like a book.  An example is that this software may be used by any number of people and may be freely moved from one computer location to another, so long as there is no possibility of it being used at one location while it's being used at another.  Just as a book cannot be read by two different people at the same time.

Commercial users of Kanji Writer! must register and pay for their copies of Kanji Writer! within 30 days of first use or their license is withdrawn.  Site-License arrangements may be made by contacting ComCul International.

Anyone distributing Kanji Writer! for any kind of remuneration must first contact ComCul International.  This authorization will be automatically granted to distributors recognized by the ASP as adhering to its guidelines for shareware distributors, and such distributors may begin offering Kanji Writer! immediately (However ComCul International must still be advised so that the distributor can be kept up-to-date with the latest version of Kanji Writer!.).

You are encouraged to pass a copy of Kanji Writer! along to your friends for evaluation, but it is recommended that you also include Kanji for Fun! with the package.  Please encourage them to register their copy if they find that they can use it.


 How to Register

Information

If you would like more information on how to register this product in your country, please contact ComCul International at the location below.  Messages may also be left at 73730,761 (Compuserve) or 73730.761_@compuserve.com (Internet - note the space between the 1 and the @ symbols).

Compuserve GO SWREG

Compuserve members may use the on-line Shareware Registration Database by logging on and typing GO SWREG. Consult the REG.TXT file that came with this package for the most current "registration number file information" or contact ComCul International.

Direct Ordering

You may also register directly from ComCul International by filling out the order form and mailing it back to us along with an enclosed check or money order (Sorry, credit cards cannot be honored at this time).  Checks and money orders should be made out to:

ComCul International

Currency

United States:

The registration cost of this shareware product is $20.00 US funds.

Canadian residents:

The registration cost of this shareware product is $25.00 Canadian dollars and includes all applicable taxes.

Japan:

Payment can be made by Bank Transfer to a Sanin Godo Bank or by Money Envelope. Contact ComCul International for additional information and pricing in Japanese yen.

All other countries:

ComCul International is a global organization, and as such we also honor a number of currencies.  Other currencies can be used by calculating the current US dollar exchange bank rate in your country + 2%.  However, to speed-up registration costs, US funds are recommended. For Australian and German residents a PRICE.TXT file may be included with this package for additional pricing and ordering information.

Address

ComCul International 	1 (514) 695-2195

119 Arrowhead Cr.

Pointe-Claire, Québec

Canada  H9R 3V4

After registering

Once your registration form and fee have been accepted (unless you have registered through Compuserve, you will be issued a registration number.  Enter this registration agreement number into the space provided on the registration dialog box which shows up at the beginning of each Kanji Writer! session


Other products...
 Other Products

Kana for Windows v2.0c	(released)

Learn kana within just hours! It's is a fast, fun-filled program.

Learn all the kana (hiragana, katakana, voiced kana, compound kana...  it's all there!).

Use the space bar to see the stroke order of each kana character and use the kana drawing pad to practice with the mouse! Wave files are used to give the pronunciation of all the kana characters.

Kana for Windows has personal/built-in descriptions (add notes to characters to help you remember them easier and faster), tests (5 tests - each designed depending on your level of expertise) and a game (similar to Kanji for Fun!).

There are also many options: Include/remove kana to and from tests and the game, turn sound on/off, show/remove the kana drawing pad, show/remove the toolbar, practice reading and translating katakana, etc....

Kanji for Fun! v1.0c	(released)

A super Kanji Concentration game (which you should already have if your using Kanji Writer!). Match kanji to their English core readings. Get motivated by the various sound indicators, race against the clock to match kanji, or simply print up some study sheets containing kanji lists (in True Type format) and their English core readings. Between Kanji Writer! and Kanji for Fun!, you'll learn your Kanji in no time!

Comes as:

(1) Basic Registration	$15.00

(2) Bundle #1 (grades 1-4; 8 modules)	$34.95

(3) Bundle #2 (grades 1-6; 13 modules)	$49.95

Kana Guess v1.0	(released)

A shareware product like Kanji for Fun! It contains the 46 basic characters for the hiragana and katakana character sets. Only $5.00 to register. Now on CD-ROM.

Kanji for Windows v1.0	(TBA)

Similar to Kana for Windows. A program that teaches you a fast and effective method for learning up to 2,000 Kanji characters.  This is an essential guide to quickly learn Kanji. It contains an extensive cross-reference list for using common Kanji dictionaries and study charts.  It contains meanings, On and Kun readings.  It even has tests and...   the game is similar to Kanji for Fun!.


 Order Form

Please send this order form along with payment to ComCul International.

Address:  ComCul International, 119 Arrowhead Cr., Pointe-Claire, Québec, Canada H9R 3V4

Please find enclosed my payment of  ________________ made out to ComCul International.

(See below for pricing. For Australian and German residents a PRICE.TXT file may be included with this package.

 Please consult this file for ordering information.)

Customer Information:

Name:______________________________Title:___________________

Company Name:_____________________________________________

Address:	___________________________________________________

___________________________________________________

___________________________________________________

Country:	______________________ Postal code:___________________

Telephone:____________________  Fax:_________________________

Comments:_________________________________________________

Kanji for Fun!  Registration:

cost/item	# of items	  sub-total of items

Basic registration only	($15.00 US)	________	_____________

($18.00 CN)

Bundle #1

(registration plus grades 2 to 4)	($34.95 US)	________	_____________

($39.95 CN)

Bundle #2

(registration plus ALL grades)	($49.95 US)	________	_____________

($59.95 CN)

Kanji Writer! registration	($20.00 US or $25.00 CN)	_____________

sub-total:	_____________

Other products:

Kana for Windows v2.0 demonstration disk	($10.00 US or CN)	_____________

Kana for Windows v2.0 program	($44.95 US or $49.95 CN)	_____________

Kana Guess v1.0 registration	($  5.00 US or $8.00 CN)	_____________

Total:	_____________

shipping and handling: 	+ $8.00  (US or CN)

Grand total:	___________


Kanji Writer!

Is an add-on utility for the shareware game: Kanji for Fun!

This program helps Japanese Language Students to write kanji using English core readings.

-- Created by ComCul International  --  © 1994


compounded kanji - two kanji together that give a single meaning


elements - groups of strokes which are located in a single kanji character.


Kanji List - a list of kanji with the respective core readings. Use the File:Print Topic command in the menu bar or the Print Sheet button to make a hard copy for study. Note: you must have the proper TrueType font installed to print the kanji characters correctly.  See adding TrueType Fonts for additional information.


KWKanji TrueType fonts - Copyright © 1993 ComCul International - All rights reserved.


PC-Speaker - a freeware program available on most BBSs that permits Windows 3.1 to play wave files through the PC's internal speaker.


Special Offer - For the holiday season, if you register before 19-December-1993 you will receive the 2nd module for free! See the order form for details.


ASP - Association of Shareware Professionals


shipping and handling: - This is required for all orders that require the shipping of diskettes.  The exceptions are:

(1) Registration of Kanji for Fun! or Kanji Writer! only - no other modules

(2) Ordering only the Kana for Windows demonstration diskette (the cost is $10.00 and includes shipping and handling - just cross off the S+H charge on the order form).

(3) If you wish to receive the Kanji for Fun! modules or grade updates through Compuserve.  The S+H charge is waived in this case.  Contact ComCul International or leave an E-mail message for additional information.


ComCul International         -- for information call...    1 (514) 695-2195

      119 Arrowhead Cr.
      Pointe-Claire, Québec
      Canada  H9R 3V4


core readings - are the concise English readings for each kanji character.  See Kanji Dictionaries for additional information.


Japanese educational system - a list of 1006 kanji that are taught during the first six years of schooling in Japan.  This list is constantly undergoing change. However, Kanji for Fun! makes reference to the list released on 15 March 1989.


kanji left box - a panel located on the right side of the main screen which indicates the number of unmatched kanji left in a test.


Kana Guess and Kanji for Fun! - are avaliable from PsL (public software library). Kana guess is also available on diskette (#12486). Contact PsL at 1-800-242-4775 to order. Or write to PsL, PO Box 35705, Houston, TX, USA, 77235-5705.

Kanji for Fun! is also available on the January 1994 PsL CD-ROM (also available as diskette #12742).