THE PECULIARITIES OF MEMORIZING KANJI THROUGH MNEMONIC TECHNIQUES

Аннотация

     Kanji characters represent one of the most challenging aspects of learning the Japanese language due to their complex visual structure, multiple readings, and semantic density. Traditional rote memorization methods often prove insufficient for long-term retention and meaningful understanding. This paper explores the peculiarities of memorizing kanji through mnemonic techniques, focusing on how associative memory, imagery, and narrative-based strategies enhance learning efficiency. Mnemonic techniques transform abstract or visually complex kanji into meaningful mental representations, enabling learners to establish stronger cognitive links between form, meaning, and usage. The study discusses major mnemonic approaches, including radical-based mnemonics, story construction, keyword association, and visual imagery. Special attention is given to the psychological and neurological foundations of mnemonics, such as dual-coding theory and elaborative encoding. The paper also analyzes the advantages and limitations of mnemonic-based kanji learning, emphasizing learner individuality, cognitive load, and long-term transferability. By comparing mnemonic strategies with traditional memorization methods, the paper demonstrates that mnemonics significantly improve recall accuracy, learner motivation, and retention over time. The findings suggest that mnemonic techniques are particularly effective for beginner and intermediate learners and can be successfully integrated into formal language education. Ultimately, this paper highlights the importance of cognitive-based learning strategies in mastering kanji and provides pedagogical implications for Japanese language instruction.