Introducing yourself
If you are a student learning Japanese as a second language, you will probably learn what is called a 自己紹介 (じこしょうかい, jikoshoukai) - a self-introduction. This follows a pretty structured format which is helpful for you to follow, as long as you realise that it rarely works out as perfectly as that.
Where would you give a structured jikoshoukai? If you are a student, it would be invaluable on a school exchange program where you would be expected to stand before the class and say a few words. Take a look at the first few minutes (2:00mins onwards) of the video called "Erin ga Chosen" (bottom right) to understand it a little better. Although a little old, the website is worth a look to practise your reading and listening skills - Erin ga Chosen website.
Vocabulary and phrases you should learn
I suggest you prepare yourself as I mentioned in the YouTube clip - have an opening, body and closing.
Openings
はじめまして (hajimemashite) vs こんにちは (konnichi-wa)
Generally speaking, hajimemashite (meaning "it is a pleasure to meet you") is only used when you meet someone for the 1st time. The stem hajime means "the start" or hajimeru is the verb "to start/begin", so it should only be used when you are establishing that initiation with a new person. If you have already passed that stage in your relationship with the speaker, you should use konnichi-wa. It would be very weird to hear hajimemashite when you see someone for the 2nd time - think about it in English.
Body - Speech
ぼく の なまえは
Body - Conversation
I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. I’m a great place for you to tell a story and let your users know a little more about you.
This page will be edited further when time permits.