BTW
Have a look at Ian Abernathy's site. Good approach to karate, if budo (street effectiveness) is what you are after.
BTW, I have been teaching karate and self defense for women, gay and transgendered for about 10 years. I have also taught kids and people with disabilities. Ian's site is pretty good, I am not Shotokan, but his information will probably help you with the fighting applications and a deeper understanding of the use of kata for bushido.
http://www.shotokankata.com/Articles/iain_abernethy.htm
Cheers