Each Kyu or Dan represents a specific rank in the
Shotokan Karate ranking system, and each of those ranks listed
below details the requirements necessary to obtain that rank.
Any person fulfilling all of the requirements outlined under a
specific rank is deserving of that rank and may be awarded that
rank by a qualified instructor at the instructor's convenience.
The color of belt associated with the target rank is listed at
the end of the line after the rank. The final decision for
advancement rests solely with the instructor.
| The Tests | Grading |
10th Kyu
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Each grading chart pertains to one of the two categories of ranks
in the JKA Shotokan Karate ranking system. A student may be advanced
to the target rank only by scoring at least the number of points
required for a passing grade. The following scale shows the ranges
of scoring as a result of each test:
| Pass | 80 - 100 points |
| Retest | 60 - 79 points |
| Fail | 0 - 59 points |
A student that does not score within the passing range but does score within the retest range may submit to re-examination within not less than three months of the original test. A student re-taking a test not scoring within the passing range must begin the testing process over again not less than three months following the retest. A student that does not score within either the passing or restest ranges is not eligible for retest, and must also begin the testing process over again not less than three months following the test.
The grader is responsible for ensuring the information collected on the grading charts remains confidential, and should only be viewed by or discussed with the student being tested, the grader, and the instructor. For younger students being tested, the instructor might find it valuable to discuss the testing results with the student's parents, as appropriate.
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10th Kyu and 9th Kyu are primarily introductory examinations
designed to test and encourage younger students. The lowest
rank examination available to an adult beginner is 8th Kyu.
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All attacks except for shuto uchi (knife-hand strike)
and kizami zuki (jab) are targeted for the chudan
(stomach) level unless otherwise indicated. Always execute shuto
uchi and kizami zuki toward the jodan (head)
level. Also, hiji ate (elbow thrust) is normally executed
toward the side and empi uchi (elbow strike) is executed
toward the front. All stepping in front stance is done in the
forward direction, unless otherwise indicated.
Basic techniques should be performed accurately and powerfully, but not rushed. The student must deliver a strong, deliberate kiai upon the execution of the final attack in each technique.
The student should perform each kata as though facing an actual opponent. He must demonstrate the kata so that it is clear to the instructor how the student intends to apply each technique. Each kata must end up on the same spot it began.
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As important as the listed criteria are, student discipline and
attitude also play important roles in the determination of
advancement. The instructor can refuse to test a student or even
fail a student solely on a display of poor attitude, bad
sportsmanship, or other improper, disrespectful, or dangerous
behavior. Students should always train diligently, but accept
all teaching with humility. Students should always be courteous
to instructors, other students, and spectators. Students should
never engage in harassment, bullying, or condescending behavior.
Because we all have so much to learn, no student can consider
himself or herself more important or deserving of attention
than others.
The instructor may choose to not test a student at all for a time if he has learned that the student has displayed poor discipline inside or outside the formal settings of the class. Rules that govern discipline and attitude are set forth by the instructor.