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Conversation(Intermediate Chapter 2)|日常会話(中級2章)
Lesson29: Art and Literature 芸術と文学

LESSON GOAL

Let’s check our lesson goal.
In this material, you will learn the words and phrases when talking about art and literature and express your opinions about specific topics.

PART A_1

Rearrange the letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. mundane
  2. originated
  3. scenic

PART A_2

1. word:
M
N
U
D
A
E
N
meaning: [adjective] ordinary and not interesting
sentence: For some people, painting is a _______ activity.
2. word:
O
I
R
I
G
A
T
N
E
D
meaning: [verb] where it began/started
sentence: Ballet dance _______ in 15th century Italy.
3. word:
S
E
C
N
I
C
meaning: [adjective] a beautiful sight
sentence: Her painting collection consists of _______ views in South America.

PART B_1

Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Sam and you will be Alice. Fill in the blanks with the correct responses.

PART B_2

I thought classes are suspended tomorrow due to bad weather. Why don’t you take a little break from studying?
This is my final term project, brother. I’m writing a literature review of The Tale of Genji. It is the greatest novel in Japan and the world’s first novel. Do you know about it?

Of course, I studied it for my eighth-grade literature class. Although, I find reading a mundane activity. Do you like reading, sister?
___________________. How about you? I think you’re into visual art.

I am. I love painting scenic views and doing portraits. I like the impressionist style of painting. By the way, do you have a favorite art style?
___________________.

I see. Well, I hope you’ll be able to finish your homework on time. If you need any help, you know where to find me.
Sure. Thanks, brother.

PART C_1

Read and take note of the important points in the article.

PART C_2

Every seventh of July, Japan celebrates one of their famous festivals known as “Tanabata”, the Star Festival. It is known to have originated from China’s “Qixi Festival”. It was first introduced in Japan in 755 A.D. by Empress Koken, the 48th monarch of Japan. The Japanese fully embraced Tanabata Festival and its story during the early Edo period. Tanabata is a story of two lovers, Hikoboshi and Orihime, who were only allowed to see each other once a year as a punishment given to them by the heaven god for neglecting their duties after marrying each other. Today, Japan’s streets are in vibrant displays with people writing their wishes on strips of paper known as “Tanzaku”. They hang these strips of paper on bamboo trees with hopes that their wishes will come true. In some traditions, these bamboo trees are set afloat on a river and/or burned once the festival is over.

PART C_3

Please answer the questions about the article.

PART C_4

1. Who are the two lovers celebrated at the Tanabata Festival?
Answer:
2. Why are the two lovers not allowed to spend their life together?
Answer:
3. Some people say that the Tanabata Festival is equivalent to Valentine’s Day. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
4. What do you think will happen to a country without art and literature?
Answer:

PART D_1

In your own understanding, please explain the meaning of the following quotations.

PART D_2

1. “Creativity takes courage.” – Henry Matisse
Answer:
2. “It takes a great deal of history to produce a little literature.” – Henry James
Answer:

PART E_1

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

PART E_2

1. Who is your favorite literary character?
Answer:
2. What is the weirdest literature you have read?
Answer:
3. Do you prefer fiction or non-fiction literature?
Answer:
4. Which art form do you like most?
Answer:
5. Do you think art is important in the modern world? How?
Answer:

REVIEW AND FEEDBACK

Now, let us review the things that you learned in this lesson.
(Please give a short feedback on how your student did on your class.)
Grammar
文法
Pronunciation 発音 Vocabulary
単語
Comprehension
理解
GOOD 文法の誤りはほとんどなく、完全な文章で話すことができる ほとんどの単語をはっきりと正しく発音することができる 習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を理解し、質問に正しく答えることができる

FAIR
文法の誤りはあるが、完全な文章で話すことができる 発音の練習が必要な言葉がいくつかある たまにミスはあるが、習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を完全に理解するのは難しく、質問に正しく答えられないときもある

POOR
文章で話すのは難しく、単語だけで話すことができる 発音の練習が必要である 習った単語と表現を少しだけ使うことができる 文章を理解するのは難しく、質問に答えるのは難しい
TUTOR FEEDBACK

GRAMMAR
Good: Was able to speak in complete sentences with minimal grammatical errors.
Fair: Was able to speak in complete sentences with evident grammatical errors.
Poor: Was able to speak using words only.
PRONUNCIATION
Good: Was able to pronounce most of the words clearly and correctly.
Fair: Mispronounced a few words.
Poor: Mispronounced most of the words.
VOCABULARY
Good: Used appropriate expressions learned in class.
Fair: Used appropriate expressions learned in class and made a few errors in word choice.
Poor: Used only a few words and expressions.
COMPREHENSION
Good: Was able to understand the passages and answer the questions correctly.
Fair: Had a little difficulty in understanding passages and answering questions.
Poor: Had a hard time understanding passages and answering questions.

Conversation(Intermediate Chapter 2)|日常会話(中級2章)
Lesson28: History and culture 歴史と文化

LESSON GOAL

Let’s check our lesson goal.
In this material, you will learn the words and phrases when talking about
history and culture and express your opinions about specific topics.

PART A_1

Rearrange the letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. remarkable
  2. civilization
  3. expedition

PART A_2

1. word:
R
M
E
R
A
A
K
L
B
E
meaning: [adjective] someone/something amazing and unforgettable
sentence: Her research about the Forbidden Kingdom is truly ______________.
2. word:
C
V
I
I
L
Z
I
T
A
O
I
N
meaning: [noun] a human society with developed culture, laws, and intellect at a specific time and place
sentence: The Mayan ________________ was famous for their calendar-making, symbolic artworks, and agriculture.
3. word:
E
X
E
P
I
D
T
O
I
N
meaning: [noun] an organized journey, especially a long one for a particular purpose
sentence: He was famous for his first _______________ around the world.

PART B_1

Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Ron and you will be Emma. Fill in the blanks with the correct responses.

PART B_2

I couldn’t sleep last night, so I searched for world history on the internet. I didn’t expect it to be incredible. What do you think is the most remarkable historical event?
________________________________. What about you?

I’ve been reading about Japanese history lately and I found out about Onna-Bugeisha. Do you know about them?
I know about them since my mother is half-Japanese. They are the female version of the samurai of the 200 A.D. It was believed that Empress Jingu became the first Onna-Bugeisha after leading a battle against Korea.

Cool! Onna-Bugeisha even fought along with samurais during battles. By the way, I think the greatest civilization is Mesopotamian. Humans in this era built waterways for their economic needs. What do you think is the greatest civilization in the world?
________________________________.


That’s incredible. It’s silly of me to think history is boring when I was in high school.
It’s amazing how history shaped us into what we are today. I’m excited as to what the future holds for us all.

PART C_1

Read and take note of the important points in the article.

PART C_2

The majority of world historians consider Alexander the Great as the greatest explorer and military leader of all time. He has greatly influenced the world during his time in less than two decades. At a young age, Alexander was educated by a famous philosopher, Aristotle. After the death of his father, he ruled his father’s kingdom at age twenty. He then expanded his father’s armies, innovated new battle techniques, and led them in conquering the Persian Empire. His conquests led him to victories not just in Persian territories, but as well as in Syria, Egypt, and Asia Minor. He introduced Greek culture to people of these territories the same way Aristotle taught him. Because of his successful expeditions, the Greek civilization was one of the greatest civilizations in history.

PART C_3

Please answer the questions about the article.

PART C_4

1. At what age did Alexander The Great become king?
Answer:
2. Based on the article, why was Alexander given the title “The Great”?
Answer:
3. Some people say that history repeats itself. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
4. Can history and literature be separated?
Answer:

PART D_1

Please explain the meaning of the following quotes.

PART D_2

1. “We are not makers of history. We are made by history.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.
Answer:
2. “Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery but today is a gift. That’s why it is called the present.” – Master Oogway
Answer:

PART E_1

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

PART E_2

1. What do you think are man’s greatest achievements and worst failures?
Answer:
2. What are the most important events in your country’s history?
Answer:
3. Which is the most important time among the three past, present, or future?
Answer:
4. What historical event would you like to turn into a movie? Do you think it’s important for the movie to be historically accurate?
Answer:
5. If you have the power to turn back time, what part of history would you like to change? Why?
Answer:

REVIEW AND FEEDBACK

Now, let us review the things that you learned in this lesson.
(Please give a short feedback on how your student did on your class.)
Grammar
文法
Pronunciation 発音 Vocabulary
単語
Comprehension
理解
GOOD 文法の誤りはほとんどなく、完全な文章で話すことができる ほとんどの単語をはっきりと正しく発音することができる 習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を理解し、質問に正しく答えることができる

FAIR
文法の誤りはあるが、完全な文章で話すことができる 発音の練習が必要な言葉がいくつかある たまにミスはあるが、習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を完全に理解するのは難しく、質問に正しく答えられないときもある

POOR
文章で話すのは難しく、単語だけで話すことができる 発音の練習が必要である 習った単語と表現を少しだけ使うことができる 文章を理解するのは難しく、質問に答えるのは難しい
TUTOR FEEDBACK

GRAMMAR
Good: Was able to speak in complete sentences with minimal grammatical errors.
Fair: Was able to speak in complete sentences with evident grammatical errors.
Poor: Was able to speak using words only.
PRONUNCIATION
Good: Was able to pronounce most of the words clearly and correctly.
Fair: Mispronounced a few words.
Poor: Mispronounced most of the words.
VOCABULARY
Good: Used appropriate expressions learned in class.
Fair: Used appropriate expressions learned in class and made a few errors in word choice.
Poor: Used only a few words and expressions.
COMPREHENSION
Good: Was able to understand the passages and answer the questions correctly.
Fair: Had a little difficulty in understanding passages and answering questions.
Poor: Had a hard time understanding passages and answering questions.

Eiken 2_4

DIRECTIONS

Read the passage silently for 20 seconds. Then, read the passage aloud in 1 minute starting from the title.

READ

Online Jobs

Nowadays, some people choose to work from home rather than work in an office. Some of them do online jobs like writing articles, creating websites, and making designs. They can choose what tasks to do. They can decide when and where to work as well. Some people have these jobs, and in this way they can spend more time for other things aside from work.

QUESTION 1

Please look at the passage.
According to the passage, how can some people spend more time for other things aside from work?

ANSWER

QUESTION 2

Please look at the pictures and describe the situation.
Describe each picture in 2 sentences.

 
Your story should start with the following sentence:
One day, Ami was talking to her mother about her part-time job.

PICTURE

Eiken 2_4

1st picture:
One day, Ami was talking to her mother about her part-time job.
____________________________________________________________.
2nd picture:
____________________________________________________________.
____________________________________________________________.
3rd picture:
____________________________________________________________.
____________________________________________________________.

QUESTION 3

Now, I will ask you the following question. Please give 2 reasons to support your answer.
Some people say that working part-time helps students become more responsible.
What do you think about that?

ANSWER

I agree/disagree ____________________________________________________________.
_______________________________________________________________________________.

QUESTION 4

Now, I will ask you another question. Please give 2 reasons to support your answer.
These days, many people prefer text messages over phone calls.
Do you think this is a good idea?

ANSWER

Yes/No ______________________________________________________________________.
_______________________________________________________________________________.

Conversation(Intermediate Chapter 2)|日常会話(中級2章)
Lesson27: Traveling 旅行

LESSON GOAL

Let’s check our lesson goal.
In this material, you will learn words that you can use to talk about traveling and tourism and express your opinions about specific topics.

PART A_1

Rearrange the letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. exotic
  2. tranquil
  3. overcrowded

PART A_2

1. word:
E
O
X
I
T
C
meaning: [adjective] rare or uncommon
sentence: They were amazed when they saw ________ animals at the zoo.
2. word:
T
A
R
N
U
I
Q
L
meaning: [adjective] peaceful and quiet
sentence: The temple they visited was beautiful and ________.
3. word:
O
E
V
R
C
R
W
O
D
E
D
meaning: [adjective] has a lot of people or things in one or more place/s
sentence: Some tourist places in the Philippines are becoming ________ .

PART B_1

Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Ron and you will be Emma. Fill in the blanks with the correct responses.

PART B_2

We have a long weekend next week and I’m planning to have a mini-vacation. Do you have any suggestions on where I can travel and unwind?
_______________________. What is your ideal travel destination?

Well, I want to go to places that are quite exotic and tranquil. What is your ideal travel destination?
_______________________.

I didn’t know you’re into traveling too. Maybe one day we can be travel buddies and explore together. How often do you travel by the way? And do you travel alone?
I actually prefer traveling alone since I only have limited time
for myself. Although, I still travel with my family or friends depending
on the destination. I usually travel once or twice a month.


That’s amazing. I’m also thinking of creating video blogs whenever I travel, so I have memories of my travel experiences.
Indeed. I think I should start making video blogs now, too.

PART C_1

Read and take note of the important points in the article.

PART C_2

According to an article in The Telegraph, a British Newspaper, United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) declared Japan as the world’s fastest-growing tourist destination since 2010 followed by India, Vietnam, and Thailand. Because of the country’s wonderful and exotic places and tranquil atmosphere, Japan has attracted many visitors particularly Chinese and Australians. Some of Japan’s most visited places are Shibuya, Dotonbori, and Tokyo Disneyland.
However, according to the newspaper Japan Times, Japan is starting to face a problem known as “Kankō Kōgai,” which means “tourism pollution” due to overcrowded places especially in large cities and in major tourist destinations. Japanese people who are known to be polite and very welcoming are getting stressed by the uncontrolled rise of tourists every day. Citizens are requesting better transportation access and more accommodations for tourists to prevent the said problem.

PART C_3

Please answer the questions about the article.

PART C_4

1. Who announced Japan as the world’s fastest-growing tourist destination?
Answer:
2. In your own words, what is tourism pollution?
Answer:
3. Some people say that tourism destroys a country’s natural and cultural heritage. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
4. What do you think Japan’s government should do to reduce “Kankō Kōgai” without negatively affecting the country’s tourism?
Answer:

PART D_1

In your own understanding, please explain the meaning of the following quotations.

PART D_2

1. “Even if traveling is not for everyone, don’t let it break you. Life is too short so go and see the world.” – Unknown
Answer:
2. “It’s not about how much you spend on traveling. It’s about the memories and experiences you earn while you’re at it.” – Unknown
Answer:

PART E_1

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions. You may ask questions, too.

PART E_2

1. If you were to live in another country, where would it be and why?
Answer:
2. Where do you think is the most iconic/remarkable place on earth?
Answer:
3. Have you ever gotten lost while traveling?
Answer:
4. What is the place you like to visit again and again in your country/abroad?
Answer:
5. Describe your ideal vacation trip with family/friends.
Answer:

REVIEW AND FEEDBACK

Now, let us review the things that you learned in this lesson.
(Please give a short feedback on how your student did on your class.)
Grammar
文法
Pronunciation 発音 Vocabulary
単語
Comprehension
理解
GOOD 文法の誤りはほとんどなく、完全な文章で話すことができる ほとんどの単語をはっきりと正しく発音することができる 習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を理解し、質問に正しく答えることができる

FAIR
文法の誤りはあるが、完全な文章で話すことができる 発音の練習が必要な言葉がいくつかある たまにミスはあるが、習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を完全に理解するのは難しく、質問に正しく答えられないときもある

POOR
文章で話すのは難しく、単語だけで話すことができる 発音の練習が必要である 習った単語と表現を少しだけ使うことができる 文章を理解するのは難しく、質問に答えるのは難しい
TUTOR FEEDBACK

GRAMMAR
Good: Was able to speak in complete sentences with minimal grammatical errors.
Fair: Was able to speak in complete sentences with evident grammatical errors.
Poor: Was able to speak using words only.
PRONUNCIATION
Good: Was able to pronounce most of the words clearly and correctly.
Fair: Mispronounced a few words.
Poor: Mispronounced most of the words.
VOCABULARY
Good: Used appropriate expressions learned in class.
Fair: Used appropriate expressions learned in class and made a few errors in word choice.
Poor: Used only a few words and expressions.
COMPREHENSION
Good: Was able to understand the passages and answer the questions correctly.
Fair: Had a little difficulty in understanding passages and answering questions.
Poor: Had a hard time understanding passages and answering questions.

Conversation(Intermediate Chapter 2)|日常会話(中級2章)
Lesson26: News and press media Newsと報道メディア

LESSON GOAL

Let’s check our lesson goal.
In this material, you will learn words that you can use when talking about news media and express your opinions about specific topics.

PART A_1

Rearrange the letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. misleading
  2. biased
  3. violent

PART A_2

1. word:
M
S
I
E
L
A
I
D
N
G
meaning: [adjective] giving the wrong idea or impression
sentence: The news headline is ____________.
2. word:
B
A
I
E
S
D
meaning: [adjective] unfair support for or against something
sentence: The news about elections was ________ in favor of the leading candidate.
3. word:
V
O
I
E
L
N
T
meaning: [adjective] harmful and destructive
sentence: The news anchor reported the ___________ storm that attacked the major city last night.

PART B_1

Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Ron and you will be Emma. Fill in the blanks with the correct responses.

PART B_2

I can’t stand watching today’s news, Emma. They’re mostly depressing. I feel like bad news always travels faster than good news. Are there any recent good news?
_____________________________. Nonetheless, you should still watch the news to keep yourself updated on what’s happening around you.

Don’t worry, I still do. Although, I prefer to watch news feature and documentary because they’re not that violent. What’s the best news you’ve heard of so far?
_________________________________________

That’s nice. I hope news outlets will become less biased and stick more to the truth. By the way, do you know how to recognize if the news is biased or not?
I watch, read, and listen to news critically. Sometimes, even by just
reading and understanding the headlines, you will know if the news is
biased or not. I always watch out for misleading sentences, one-sided
reports, and opinionated terms.


You’re absolutely right. With the popularity of social media, it’s easy to spread fake news, so we need to be very critical with what we believe and what we share with others.
Indeed. It’s our duty as citizens to be responsible and observant.

PART C_1

Read and take note of the important points in the article.

PART C_2

The history of news can be dated back to the Ancient Rome and Han Dynasty in China. In Ancient Rome, “Acta Diurna”, or government announcements were engraved either in metal or stone before being posted in public places. Meanwhile, in China, news sheets were handwritten on silk. In 1456, a movable printing system was invented by a German blacksmith, Johannes Gutenberg. Since then, important information became easily shared with everyone.
A hundred years later, the term “newspaper” was first used in Venice, Italy when the government published their first handwritten newsletters known as “Written Notice”. To this day, news plays an important role in educating and updating the public that marked and shapes the modern world.

PART C_3

Please answer the questions about the article.

PART C_4

1. Who invented the first movable printing system?
Answer:
2. Based on the article, how does news shape the modern world?
Answer:
3. Some people say that social media could replace news media. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
4. What do you think will happen if anyone (including those without professional journalism/reporting background) would write and publish news?
Answer:

PART D_1

In your own understanding, please explain the meaning of the following quotations.

PART D_2

1. “News is the bridge between the people, the government, and the world.”
– Unknown
Answer:
2. “A newspaper is not just for reporting the news as it is, but to make people mad enough to do something about it.”
– Mark Twain
Answer:

PART E_1

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

PART E_2

1. Do you think there are more bad news than good news nowadays?
Answer:
2. Would you consider becoming a news reporter if given the chance?
Answer:
3. What kind of news interests you the most?
Answer:
4. Should news be more entertaining than informative?
Answer:
5. If you were to be reported in the news, what would be the headline?
Answer:

REVIEW AND FEEDBACK

Now, let us review the things that you learned in this lesson.
(Please give a short feedback on how your student did on your class.)
Grammar
文法
Pronunciation 発音 Vocabulary
単語
Comprehension
理解
GOOD 文法の誤りはほとんどなく、完全な文章で話すことができる ほとんどの単語をはっきりと正しく発音することができる 習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を理解し、質問に正しく答えることができる

FAIR
文法の誤りはあるが、完全な文章で話すことができる 発音の練習が必要な言葉がいくつかある たまにミスはあるが、習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を完全に理解するのは難しく、質問に正しく答えられないときもある

POOR
文章で話すのは難しく、単語だけで話すことができる 発音の練習が必要である 習った単語と表現を少しだけ使うことができる 文章を理解するのは難しく、質問に答えるのは難しい
TUTOR FEEDBACK

GRAMMAR
Good: Was able to speak in complete sentences with minimal grammatical errors.
Fair: Was able to speak in complete sentences with evident grammatical errors.
Poor: Was able to speak using words only.
PRONUNCIATION
Good: Was able to pronounce most of the words clearly and correctly.
Fair: Mispronounced a few words.
Poor: Mispronounced most of the words.
VOCABULARY
Good: Used appropriate expressions learned in class.
Fair: Used appropriate expressions learned in class and made a few errors in word choice.
Poor: Used only a few words and expressions.
COMPREHENSION
Good: Was able to understand the passages and answer the questions correctly.
Fair: Had a little difficulty in understanding passages and answering questions.
Poor: Had a hard time understanding passages and answering questions.

Conversation(Intermediate Chapter 2)|日常会話(中級2章)
Lesson25: Spending and consumerism 消費と消費者運動

LESSON GOAL

Let’s check our lesson goal.
In this material, you will learn words that you can use when talking about spending and consumerism and express your opinions about specific topics.

PART A_1

Rearrange the letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. allowance
  2. conscious
  3. thrifty

PART A_2

1. word:
A
L
O
L
A
W
N
C
E
meaning: [noun] amount of money to either save or use for a limited time
sentence: He promised to save twenty-percent of his _____________ so that he can buy a new car.
2. word:
C
N
O
C
S
I
U
O
S
meaning: [adjective] aware of one’s or someone’s actions/behaviors
sentence: Her mother is _______________ in spending their family’s monthly budget.
3. word:
T
H
I
R
T
F
Y
meaning: [adjective] using money carefully and not wastefully
sentence: I need to be ___________ so I can save enough money for a new car.

PART B_1

Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Alice and you will be Sam. Fill in the blanks with the correct responses.

PART B_2

I used up all my weekly allowance yesterday. May I borrow 100 hundred dollars, sister?
____________. Where did you spend all your money?

There was a big sale at the mall. I couldn’t help myself so I shopped with my friends. I didn’t realize that I had no money left until I got home last night.
I won’t blame you, but you should’ve been a conscious shopper. Money doesn’t come around so easy these days.

I know, I’m sorry. Do you have any advice so I can become thrifty like you?
________________________________________.

I’m not sure if I can follow all of your advice, but I will try my best. Thanks, sister.
No problem. Anyway, here’s 100 dollars.

PART C_1

Read and take note of the important points in the article.

PART C_2

In Japan, there is a money-saving method known as “kakeibo” which means a “household financial ledger”. Kakeibo was created and first published in a women’s magazine by a female journalist, Motoko Hani in 1995. It is an annual journal composed of spreadsheets and inspirational messages to motivate its user while managing their finances. This is to keep track of how much the user is spending and earning, although its main goal is to save more money. With the positive influence of Kakeibo, consumers will be more responsible with their money. In addition, Moni Ninja, a financial blogger suggested that parents should teach their kids how to save money by placing cash gifts they receive during holidays and special occasions in the bank.

PART C_3

Please answer the questions about the article.

PART C_4

1. What is kakeibo?
Answer:
2. How do parents teach their children in saving money?
Answer:
3. Financial education should be taught to young children at school. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
4. What do you think will happen if majority of people are over-spending money?
Answer:

PART D_1

In your own understanding, please explain the meaning of the following quotations.

PART D_2

1. “Beware of little expenses. A small leak will sink a great ship.” – Benjamin Franklin
Answer:
2. “When you have money, think of the time when you had none” – a Japanese proverb
Answer:

PART E_1

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

PART E_2

1. What is the most expensive thing you have ever bought without much thought?
Answer:
2. Imagine you earned a lot of money, where would you use it for and why?
Answer:
3. What can you advice to people who are over-spending money?
Answer:
4. If you were to remove some expenses in your budget, what would it be?
Answer:
5. Name other ways in saving money without depriving yourself.
Answer:

REVIEW AND FEEDBACK

Now, let us review the things that you learned in this lesson.
(Please give a short feedback on how your student did on your class.)
Grammar
文法
Pronunciation 発音 Vocabulary
単語
Comprehension
理解
GOOD 文法の誤りはほとんどなく、完全な文章で話すことができる ほとんどの単語をはっきりと正しく発音することができる 習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を理解し、質問に正しく答えることができる

FAIR
文法の誤りはあるが、完全な文章で話すことができる 発音の練習が必要な言葉がいくつかある たまにミスはあるが、習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を完全に理解するのは難しく、質問に正しく答えられないときもある

POOR
文章で話すのは難しく、単語だけで話すことができる 発音の練習が必要である 習った単語と表現を少しだけ使うことができる 文章を理解するのは難しく、質問に答えるのは難しい
TUTOR FEEDBACK

GRAMMAR
Good: Was able to speak in complete sentences with minimal grammatical errors.
Fair: Was able to speak in complete sentences with evident grammatical errors.
Poor: Was able to speak using words only.
PRONUNCIATION
Good: Was able to pronounce most of the words clearly and correctly.
Fair: Mispronounced a few words.
Poor: Mispronounced most of the words.
VOCABULARY
Good: Used appropriate expressions learned in class.
Fair: Used appropriate expressions learned in class and made a few errors in word choice.
Poor: Used only a few words and expressions.
COMPREHENSION
Good: Was able to understand the passages and answer the questions correctly.
Fair: Had a little difficulty in understanding passages and answering questions.
Poor: Had a hard time understanding passages and answering questions.

Conversation(Intermediate Chapter 2)|日常会話(中級2章)
Lesson24: Traffic and transportation 交通と乗り物

LESSON GOAL

Let’s check our lesson goal.
In this material, you will learn words that you can use when talking about traffic and transportation and express your opinions about specific topics.

PART A_1

Rearrange the letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. hazards
  2. regulation
  3. pedestrian

PART A_2

1. word:
A
H
Z
A
R
D
S
meaning: [noun ] something dangerous/unsafe
sentence: Be aware of the traffic ___________ when driving on a slippery road.
2. word:
R
E
G
A
U
L
T
I
O
N
meaning: [noun] policies
sentence: The people in the Metrovalle City have no regard to traffic __________.
3. word:
E
P
D
E
S
R
T
I
A
N
meaning: [noun] a person crossing the street
sentence: He almost hit the _________.

PART B_1

Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Sam and you will be Alice. Fill in the blanks with the correct responses.

PART B_2

I failed my driving and road tests earlier. I will retake my exams next week. What should I do?
Let’s see. How familiar are you in understanding street signs and traffic hazards?

Not quite. Actually, those are the main reasons why I didn’t pass. I don’t know much about them.
I see. Well, the golden rule is to watch out for cyclists and crossing pedestrians. You must also pay attention to the speed limit. Some roads are busier than others.

I’ll keep that in mind. Can you tell me more about other traffic regulations?
_________________________________________.

That’s a lot, but I’ll make sure to remember all of that. Do you think I’ll pass my driving and road tests next week?
__________. Don’t be so nervous. Just remember that it is mandatory to obey traffic rules whether you’re a pedestrian or a driver.

PART C_1

Read and take note of the important points in the article.

PART C_2

According to This Is Insider, an online news media company, Tokyo is the most populated city on Earth and has the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. Every day, at least 3,000 people cross the famed Shibuya station. Despite being overly crowded, everyone is polite and disciplined in crossing the streets even when the traffic lights change every two minutes. It is also considered the home to one of Tokyo’s busiest train stations carrying more than 2.4 million passengers a day. Shibuya Station began operating in 1885. Shibuya has also made its way to Hollywood films like The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift and Resident Evil: Afterlife.

PART C_3

Please answer the questions about the article.

PART C_4

1. When did Shibuya Station first began its operations?
Answer:
2. Why do you think Shibuya is the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world?
Answer:
3. Road accidents happen more often in bigger pedestrian crossings than smaller ones. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
4. What do you think will happen if the train operations stopped for a day?
Answer:

PART D_1

In your own understanding, please explain the meaning of the following quotations.

PART D_2

1. “The driver on the highway is safe not when he reads the signs, but when he obeys them.” – Aiden Wilson Tozer
Answer:
2. “Take it easy on driving. The life you save may be mine.” – James Dean
Answer:

PART E_1

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

PART E_2

1. What would you do if you suddenly saw a road accident and you were the only person in the area?

Answer:
2. Do you prefer driving your own car or commuting by public transportation?
Answer:
3. Aside from paying fines, what other measures can you think of to punish reckless drivers?
Answer:
4. What can you suggest to other countries who have heavy traffic loads?
Answer:
5. Some people say that the elderly, pregnant women and persons with disability should not go out without a company. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:

REVIEW AND FEEDBACK

Now, let us review the things that you learned in this lesson.
(Please give a short feedback on how your student did on your class.)
Grammar
文法
Pronunciation 発音 Vocabulary
単語
Comprehension
理解
GOOD 文法の誤りはほとんどなく、完全な文章で話すことができる ほとんどの単語をはっきりと正しく発音することができる 習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を理解し、質問に正しく答えることができる

FAIR
文法の誤りはあるが、完全な文章で話すことができる 発音の練習が必要な言葉がいくつかある たまにミスはあるが、習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を完全に理解するのは難しく、質問に正しく答えられないときもある

POOR
文章で話すのは難しく、単語だけで話すことができる 発音の練習が必要である 習った単語と表現を少しだけ使うことができる 文章を理解するのは難しく、質問に答えるのは難しい
TUTOR FEEDBACK

GRAMMAR
Good: Was able to speak in complete sentences with minimal grammatical errors.
Fair: Was able to speak in complete sentences with evident grammatical errors.
Poor: Was able to speak using words only.
PRONUNCIATION
Good: Was able to pronounce most of the words clearly and correctly.
Fair: Mispronounced a few words.
Poor: Mispronounced most of the words.
VOCABULARY
Good: Used appropriate expressions learned in class.
Fair: Used appropriate expressions learned in class and made a few errors in word choice.
Poor: Used only a few words and expressions.
COMPREHENSION
Good: Was able to understand the passages and answer the questions correctly.
Fair: Had a little difficulty in understanding passages and answering questions.
Poor: Had a hard time understanding passages and answering questions.

Conversation (Intermediate Chapter 2)|日常会話(中級2章)
Lesson23: Saving, investing, and personal finance 貯金、投資、パーソナルファイナンス

LESSON GOAL

Let’s check our lesson goal.
In this material, you will learn words that you can use when talking about saving, investing, and personal finance and express your opinions about
specific topics.

PART A_1

Rearrange the letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. purchase
  2. volatile
  3. economy

PART A_2

1. word:
P
R
U
C
A
H
S
E
meaning: [noun] something that you buy
sentence: I talked about planning a future _________ for a house.
2. word:
L
O
V
A
T
I
L
E
meaning: [adjective] likely to change suddenly and unexpectedly, especially by getting worse
sentence: Rice and meat prices are very ___________ in our country nowadays.
3. word:
C
O
E
N
O
M
Y
meaning: [noun] the system by which a country produces and uses goods and money
sentence: The ___________ of the country is growing rapidly.

PART B_1

Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Ron and you will be Emma. Fill in the blanks with the correct responses.

PART B_2

Hey, Emma. I heard you’re investing in cryptocurrency. Is that true?
I did. My first purchase was in 2012. I’ve recently sold them out.

Really? The prices of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are on an all-time high these past few months.
That’s true. That’s why I sold them all out when their prices are still high. As you know, prices of cryptocurrencies are very volatile. We’ll never know when the price will plunge down.

I’ve never tried investing on cryptocurrencies despite their popularity. Anyway, have you tried investing in the stock market?
___________________. Our economy is the doing well.

I hope this continues. We have had enough trouble since the economic decline of early 2000’s. Anyway, which company do you think will perform best this year?
____________. It’s market value doubled in the last five years.

PART C_1

Read and take note of the important points in the article.

PART C_2

Financial Action Task, an international financial organization, will team up with Japan to urge a unified cryptocurrency regulation in the coming months. This is to make sure that syndicate groups will not be able to acquire money from their victims. Cryptocurrency is a digital form of money to secure transactions online. The current leading cryptocurrency in Japan is Bitcoin. After the largest cryptocurrency scam incidents of Mt. Gox and Coincheck, Japan’s financial regulator has increased its security to fight against scams. Analysts believe that by applying unified cryptocurrency regulations and by encouraging countries to work together, cases of money scams will drop.

PART C_3

Please answer the questions about the article.

PART C_4

1. What are the two names of cryptocurrencies that were hacked?
Answer:
2. In your own words, describe cryptocurrency.
Answer:
3. Cryptocurrency is more prone to theft/scam than actual money. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
4. What do you think will happen if cryptocurrency fully replace all fiat (physical/actual) money in the world?
Answer:

PART D_1

Please explain the meaning to the following quotes.

PART D_2

1. “Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants. ” –Epictetus
Answer:
2. “Every time you borrow money, you’re robbing your future self.” -Nathan W. Morris
Answer:

PART E_1

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

PART E_2

1. What are the common payment methods in your country?
Answer:
2. Do you think it is wise to own two or more credit cards?
Answer:
3. What is the first thing you will do/buy if you were given one million US dollars?
Answer:
4. People would be in a better financial situation if they would buy things in full payment and in cash. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
5. What do you think are the best ways to prepare for one’s retirement?
Answer:

REVIEW AND FEEDBACK

Now, let us review the things that you learned in this lesson.
(Please give a short feedback on how your student did on your class.)
Grammar
文法
Pronunciation 発音 Vocabulary
単語
Comprehension
理解
GOOD 文法の誤りはほとんどなく、完全な文章で話すことができる ほとんどの単語をはっきりと正しく発音することができる 習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を理解し、質問に正しく答えることができる

FAIR
文法の誤りはあるが、完全な文章で話すことができる 発音の練習が必要な言葉がいくつかある たまにミスはあるが、習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を完全に理解するのは難しく、質問に正しく答えられないときもある

POOR
文章で話すのは難しく、単語だけで話すことができる 発音の練習が必要である 習った単語と表現を少しだけ使うことができる 文章を理解するのは難しく、質問に答えるのは難しい
TUTOR FEEDBACK

GRAMMAR
Good: Was able to speak in complete sentences with minimal grammatical errors.
Fair: Was able to speak in complete sentences with evident grammatical errors.
Poor: Was able to speak using words only.
PRONUNCIATION
Good: Was able to pronounce most of the words clearly and correctly.
Fair: Mispronounced a few words.
Poor: Mispronounced most of the words.
VOCABULARY
Good: Used appropriate expressions learned in class.
Fair: Used appropriate expressions learned in class and made a few errors in word choice.
Poor: Used only a few words and expressions.
COMPREHENSION
Good: Was able to understand the passages and answer the questions correctly.
Fair: Had a little difficulty in understanding passages and answering questions.
Poor: Had a hard time understanding passages and answering questions.

Conversation (Intermediate Chapter 2)|日常会話(中級2章)
Lesson22: Work and Employment 仕事と雇用

LESSON GOAL

Let’s check our lesson goal.
In this material, you will learn words that you can use when talking about work and employment and express your opinions about specific topics.

PART A_1

Rearrange the letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. familiarize
  2. excessive
  3. prompt

PART A_2

1. word:
F
A
M
L
I
I
A
R
Z
I
E
meaning: [verb] to teach someone more about something new or try to understand more about it by yourself
sentence: After two weeks, he was able to _______ himself in his new job.
2. word:
E
C
X
S
S
I
E
V
E
meaning: [adjective] something that is more than necessary
sentence: His boss gave him a verbal warning for his _______ tardiness.
3. word:
R
O
P
M
T
P
meaning: [adjective] acting quickly
sentence: The employer hired her for being honest and _______ on her job interview.

PART B_1

Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Sam and you will be Alice. Fill in the blanks with the correct responses.

PART B_2

Your job interview is tomorrow. Have you prepared for it?
Of course. I familiarized myself with possible interview questions. Do you have any advice, brother?

With pleasure. First of all, you should have background information about the company. Did you do a research?
____________. I guess I have to do more research about them. How was your first interview?

I was nervous at first. I really liked the job and I couldn’t afford to mess up. Luckily, the hiring manager was patient with me, so it went smoothly. Now, I’m almost three years in the company. By the way, what kind of work are you applying for?
_________________________________.

Cool. Just remember, be honest when answering their questions and just be yourself.
I will. Thank you, brother. Wish me luck!

PART C_1

Read and take note of the important points in the article.

PART C_2

Working overtime is well established in Japan. However, due to higher risks of health problems caused by excessive working hours, companies are starting to prompt and organize ways to improve work-life balance. Taisei Co. is developing a drone known as “T-FREND” to fly around after working hours while playing the song, “Auld Lang Syne” as a reminder to go home. It can also detect anyone who remains at work. According to T-FREND’s inventor, Chikara Sato, “This drone will identify who remains in the office after work and by accessing recorded data, human resources or administration department, it will be able to deal with those who abuse overtime.” This invention is promising as it shows great awareness of Japan’s workaholic culture.

PART C_3

Please answer the questions about the article.

PART C_4

1. What are the risks of excessive working hours?
Answer:
2. Why is T-FREND a promising invention?
Answer:
3. T-FREND is beneficial for both the company and its employees. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
4. If you were given a chance to improve the work-life balance in Japan, what would you propose and why?
Answer:

PART D_1

Please explain the meaning of the following quotes.

PART D_2

1. “If you want to be successful in this world, you have to follow your passion, not a paycheck. – Jen Welter 
Answer:
2. “Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance.” – Samuel Johnson
Answer:

PART E_1

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

PART E_2

1. What are the most in-demand jobs in your country right now?
Answer:
2. If you are an employer, what would be your basis for hiring job applicants?
Answer:
3. What do you consider a successful career and why?
Answer:
4. If you had to choose between a satisfying job and a well-paid one, which one would you choose?
Answer:
5. In your opinion, what are the three best qualities of a top-performing employee?
Answer:

REVIEW AND FEEDBACK

Now, let us review the things that you learned in this lesson.
(Please give a short feedback on how your student did on your class.)
Grammar
文法
Pronunciation 発音 Vocabulary
単語
Comprehension
理解
GOOD 文法の誤りはほとんどなく、完全な文章で話すことができる ほとんどの単語をはっきりと正しく発音することができる 習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を理解し、質問に正しく答えることができる

FAIR
文法の誤りはあるが、完全な文章で話すことができる 発音の練習が必要な言葉がいくつかある たまにミスはあるが、習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を完全に理解するのは難しく、質問に正しく答えられないときもある

POOR
文章で話すのは難しく、単語だけで話すことができる 発音の練習が必要である 習った単語と表現を少しだけ使うことができる 文章を理解するのは難しく、質問に答えるのは難しい
TUTOR FEEDBACK

GRAMMAR
Good: Was able to speak in complete sentences with minimal grammatical errors.
Fair: Was able to speak in complete sentences with evident grammatical errors.
Poor: Was able to speak using words only.
PRONUNCIATION
Good: Was able to pronounce most of the words clearly and correctly.
Fair: Mispronounced a few words.
Poor: Mispronounced most of the words.
VOCABULARY
Good: Used appropriate expressions learned in class.
Fair: Used appropriate expressions learned in class and made a few errors in word choice.
Poor: Used only a few words and expressions.
COMPREHENSION
Good: Was able to understand the passages and answer the questions correctly.
Fair: Had a little difficulty in understanding passages and answering questions.
Poor: Had a hard time understanding passages and answering questions.

Conversation (Intermediate Chapter 2)|日常会話(中級2章)
Lesson21: Disaster Preparedness 防災準備

LESSON GOAL

Let’s check our lesson goal.
In this material, you will learn words that you can use when talking about disaster preparedness and express your opinions about specific topics.

PART A_1

Rearrange the letters of the word to complete each sentence. Read the meaning aloud and use it as a clue.
ANSWERS
  1. casualty
  2. vicinity
  3. calamity

PART A_2

1. word:
A
C
S
U
L
A
T
Y
meaning: [noun] number of people and/or animals who have died in an event
sentence: The number of ______________ has increased due to lack of disaster preparation.
2. word:
I
C
V
I
T
Y
I
N
meaning: [noun] a region near a particular place
sentence: Our house is near the ____________ of the earthquake hazard zone in our country.
3. word:
A
C
L
A
M
T
Y
I
meaning: [adjective] a disastrous natural event causing damages and death
sentence: The ______________ caused massive destruction in the country.

PART B_1

Let’s read the dialogue. I will be Ron and you will be Emma. Fill in the blanks with the correct responses.

PART B_2

We are going to have an earthquake drill later. Have you done that before?
_________________________. How about you, Ron?


Yes, I have. It was challenging, but the instructors did well in facilitating us during the drill. We need to prepare ahead for emergency situations.
You’re right. Have you experienced any disasters before?


No, I haven’t. How about you? Have you experienced any disasters before? What happened?
________________________________________.

I see. Thanks for sharing about that. Do you think Japan is prepared for any disasters that might happen?
_____________. I hope the earthquake drill goes well.

PART C_1

Read and take note of the important points in the article.

PART C_2

According to Red Cross, an international humanitarian organization, knowledge in disaster preparedness can help save lives. In fact, it should be mandatory for everyone to know what to do before, during, and after natural calamities. Red Cross suggests that family members should discuss how to respond to different types of emergencies that are most likely to happen in their vicinity.
In Japan, one of the most common drills is for earthquake preparedness which is participated by everyone in the country. Students take part in disaster drills on their first day of school to introduce them the importance of disaster preparedness. Japanese and even foreign employees are also taking part in calamity preparation as high-rise buildings are more prone to shaking and collapsing during an earthquake. Authorities in Japan are helping in providing evacuation measures and areas where civilians can go right before and after a calamity.

PART C_3

Please answer the given questions about the article.

PART C_4

1. What is the name of the international humanitarian organization?
Answer:
2. Why should disaster preparedness training be mandatory for everyone?
Answer:
3. Disaster preparedness education should start in preschool/kindergarten. Do you agree or disagree?
Answer:
4. If you would have a superpower to stop any natural disaster to happen, what would it be?
Answer:

PART D_1

Please explain the meaning to the following quotes.

PART D_2

1. “You can no more win a war than you can win an earthquake.”
– Jeannette Rankin 
Answer:
2. “Preparation through education is less costly than learning through tragedy.”
– Max Mayfield, Director National Hurricane Center
Answer:

PART E_1

Let’s talk. Please answer my questions.

PART E_2

1. What kind of disasters are common in your country?
Answer:
2. What preparations do you do when there is an incoming natural calamity in your place?
Answer:
3. How do people in your country help each other during disasters?
Answer:
4. What are some problems that people have right after a disaster?
Answer:
5. Do you think man-made disasters are more destructive than natural ones?
Answer:

REVIEW AND FEEDBACK

Now, let us review the things that you learned in this lesson.
(Please give a short feedback on how your student did on your class.)
Grammar
文法
Pronunciation 発音 Vocabulary
単語
Comprehension
理解
GOOD 文法の誤りはほとんどなく、完全な文章で話すことができる ほとんどの単語をはっきりと正しく発音することができる 習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を理解し、質問に正しく答えることができる

FAIR
文法の誤りはあるが、完全な文章で話すことができる 発音の練習が必要な言葉がいくつかある たまにミスはあるが、習った表現を適切に使うことができる 文章を完全に理解するのは難しく、質問に正しく答えられないときもある

POOR
文章で話すのは難しく、単語だけで話すことができる 発音の練習が必要である 習った単語と表現を少しだけ使うことができる 文章を理解するのは難しく、質問に答えるのは難しい
TUTOR FEEDBACK

GRAMMAR
Good: Was able to speak in complete sentences with minimal grammatical errors.
Fair: Was able to speak in complete sentences with evident grammatical errors.
Poor: Was able to speak using words only.
PRONUNCIATION
Good: Was able to pronounce most of the words clearly and correctly.
Fair: Mispronounced a few words.
Poor: Mispronounced most of the words.
VOCABULARY
Good: Used appropriate expressions learned in class.
Fair: Used appropriate expressions learned in class and made a few errors in word choice.
Poor: Used only a few words and expressions.
COMPREHENSION
Good: Was able to understand the passages and answer the questions correctly.
Fair: Had a little difficulty in understanding passages and answering questions.
Poor: Had a hard time understanding passages and answering questions.