All posts by weblio PH

Business Conversation (Intermediate): Reporting about stock performance

PART A_1
Let’s learn new vocabulary. Listen and repeat these words with your tutor.
PART A_2
1. as requested 希望どおりに
  We have arranged a meeting with you as requested.
2. trade 取引
  The company will stop trading in May.
3. expect 予期する、期待する
  Sales are expected to increase in the next three months.
4. bull market 強気市場、買相場
  Many investors are anticipating a bull market in two months.
5. consumer 消費者
  Consumer demand has increased.
PART A_3
I will ask the questions. Please answer them in complete sentences.
PART A_4
1. Do you usually make printouts of reports as requested?
2. Does your company trade with other businesses?
3. What are your expected sales next month?
4. Has your company experienced a bull market?
5. How does your company respond to consumer demand?
PART B_1
Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.
PART B_2

Hi, Emma. I have the stocks report as requested.
Thank you, Ron. What’s the status of our stocks?

The report states that XYZ Food Corporation’s stocks are up by five percent. Currently, we’re trading at $60 per share. This is our first update in two weeks.
I see. Any forecast on our stocks?

Yes. Stocks are expected to rise after launching our new products and services. We have been receiving good reviews lately.
That’s wonderful. What about our market sentiment?

It’s doing very well, and I believe we are entering a bull market.
Excellent news. We should continue with our current performance or aim
higher. Thank you for summarizing the report.

PART C_1
Let’s read the dialogue. Read aloud, and fill in the blanks as you remember the sentence you just read.
PART C_2

Hi, Emma. I have the stocks report as requested.
Thank you, Ron. What’s the status of our stocks?

The report states that XYZ Food Corporation’s ______________. Currently, we’re trading at $60 per share. This is our ______________ two weeks.
I see. Any forecast on our stocks?

Yes. Stocks are expected to rise after launching our new products and services. We have been receiving good reviews lately.
That’s wonderful. What about our market sentiment?

It’s doing very well, and I believe we are ______________.
Excellent news. We should continue with our current performance or aim
higher. Thank you for summarizing the report.

PART D_1
Let’s read the new dialogue. Read aloud, and fill in the blanks with the vocabulary and expressions you learned.
PART D_2

Hello, Emma. I just received the stocks report.
Thanks, Ron. How’s the status?

According to the report, Matenrou’s ______________. We’re currently trading at $50 per share. This is our ______________ two weeks.
All right. Any expectations?

Stocks are expected to due to the generally positive reviews of our new products and services.
That’s great to hear. What about our market sentiment?

Consumer activity has risen, so it’s doing quite well. We can assume that we are entering ______________.
Wonderful news. Thank you for summarizing the report.

PART E_1
Let’s do a roleplay. Talk with me according to the situation below, using the expressions you just learned.
PART E_2
You are talking to your co-worker about the current stocks status of your company. Discuss how your company is doing. Your tutor will pretend to be your co-worker.
PART E_3
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 in 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.

Business (Intermediate Chapter 1)|ビジネス会話(中級1章)
Lesson99: Responding to feedback in a professional way

PART A_1
Let’s learn new vocabulary. Listen and repeat these words with your tutor.
PART A_2
1. work (on something) (~何かに)に取り組む
  I need to work on my typing speed more.
2. lately 近々
  Have you seen any good job openings lately?
3. traffic jam 交通渋滞
  My apologies, but I’m currently in a traffic jam. I might be late for about 10 minutes.
4. tardiness 遅延、遅刻
  He works well, but he has issues with tardiness.
5. diligence 勤勉、不断の努力
  She shows diligence in every task she does.
PART A_3
I will ask the questions. Please answer them in complete sentences.
PART A_4
1. What work skill do you think you need to work on more?
2. Have you reported late to work lately?
3. What time do traffic jams usually occur on the road to your office?
4. What advice would you give someone with tardiness problems?
5. What is the best way to show diligence at work?
PART B_1
Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.
PART B_2

Good morning, Ms. Stone. You called for me?
Yes, thank you for taking the time to be here, Ron. Take a seat. We will
talk about your performance.

Thank you.
You accomplish your tasks diligently and have performed admirably.
However, we would like you to work on your attendance more. Our
records show you have been late for three consecutive days last week.

Ah, yes, I am aware that I must work for eight hours a day. I understand where you are coming from, but the traffic in my area has been heavy lately.
That is understandable and traffic jams aren’t something we can control.
But we would like you to notify us at least 30 minutes or an hour in advance.

I’m sorry, but could you give me an example of a time when I was not able to notify you of my tardiness?
Your recent late attendance, last Thursday. You were not able
to send us any notification, so I failed to redelegate your morning tasks
to someone else.

Oh, I sincerely apologize for that. It slipped my mind…
It’s fine, but we hope to get better attendance records from you
moving forward.

Yes, I understand. Do you think it would help if I work overtime to compensate for my missed working hours last week?
Yes, of course.

PART C_1
Let’s read the dialogue. Read aloud, and fill in the blanks as you remember the sentences you just read.
PART C_2

Good morning, Ms. Stone. You called for me?
Yes, thank you for taking the time to be here, Ron. Take a seat. We will
talk about your performance.

Thank you.
You accomplish your tasks diligently and have performed admirably.
However, we would like you to work on your attendance more. Our
records show you have been late for three consecutive days last week.

Ah, yes, I am aware that I must work for eight hours a day. I understand ______________, but the traffic in my area has been heavy lately.
That is understandable and traffic jams aren’t something we can control.
But we would like you to notify us at least 30 minutes or an hour in advance.

I’m sorry, but could you ______________ when I was not able to notify you of my tardiness?
Your recent late attendance, last Thursday. You were not able
to send us any notification, so I failed to redelegate your morning tasks
to someone else.

Oh, I sincerely apologize for that. It slipped my mind…
It’s fine, but we hope to get better attendance records from you
moving forward.

Yes, I understand. Do you think ______________ I work overtime to compensate for my missed working hours last week?
Yes, of course.

PART D_1
Let’s read the new dialogue. Read aloud, and fill in the blanks with the vocabulary and expressions you learned.
PART D_2

Good day, Ms. Jones.
Ah, Ron. You’re here. Let’s talk about your performance.

All right.
I’m impressed by your diligence to check our article content. However, our
records show that you’ve been submitting them late for publication the past few days.

I understand ______________, but checking article content is not an easy task to do and it takes a lot of time.
I’m aware that checking isn’t easy, so I’m expecting you to avoid having
extended breaks at work so you’ll have more time to finish your tasks.

I’m sorry, Ms. Jones, but ______________ of a time when I had long breaks?
Last Wednesday, your lunch break exceeded by 20 minutes, and your
coffee break by 10 minutes.

Ah, yes, I apologize for that. ______________ if worked overtime for this week to compensate?
Of course. We would appreciate it.

PART E_1
Let’s do a roleplay. Talk with me according to the situation below, using the expressions you just learned.
PART E_2
Your team leader invited you to discuss your low sales for the month. Respond to his/her feedback professionally. Your tutor will pretend to be your team leader.
PART E_3
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.

Business (Intermediate Chapter 1)|ビジネス会話(中級1章)
Lesson90: Making a point during a meeting

PART A_1
Let’s learn new vocabulary. Listen and repeat these words with your tutor.
PART A_2
1. hire 雇う
  Our company is currently hiring IT specialists.
2. manpower マンパワー
  The quality assurance department is short on manpower.
3. accomplish 達成
  We must accomplish our tasks on or before the deadline.
4. go along (with someone/something) ついて行く、同行する、賛成する
  I’m sorry, but I cannot go along with our manager.
5. advanced 進歩した、高機能の
  You can purchase advanced equipment from us.
PART A_3
I will ask the questions. Please answer them in complete sentences.
PART A_4
1. Is your company currently hiring?
2. Do you think your company has enough manpower?
3. What do you do to make sure that you accomplish your tasks on time?
4. Do you often go along with your colleagues?
5. Does your company use the most advanced equipment?
PART B_1
Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.
PART B_2

Good morning. We have this meeting to discuss the deadlines. Some of our tasks have been delayed for the past few days. Does anyone have any solutions to this?
I have a suggestion, Mr. Johnson. My standpoint is that we need
to hire more people. If there is more manpower to do the tasks, we will be able to accomplish them on time.

That is a good idea, but as of now, I can’t go along with you there because we would use up resources for the hiring process and training.
Yes, but it will help us in the long run. I think one of the main reasons
why we have been constantly behind the deadlines is that the ratio between
the people and tasks is not balanced.

I understand. What if we extend our employees’ working hours?
That’s possible, but that would mean we have to pay them overtime,
and if they’re overworked, there’s a possibility of them resigning.

Ah, I definitely agree with your point. We cannot risk losing any more workers. Thank you for the suggestion, Ms. Williams.
You’re welcome.

I will discuss this with our manager as soon as possible.
PART C_1
Let’s read the dialogue. Read aloud, and fill in the blanks as you remember the sentences you just read.
PART C_2

Good morning. We have this meeting to discuss the deadlines. Some of our tasks have been delayed for the past few days. Does anyone have any solutions to this?
I have a suggestion, Mr. Johnson. ______________ that we need to hire more people. If there is more manpower to do the tasks, we will be able to accomplish them on time.

That is a good idea, but as of now, ______________ there because we would use up resources for the hiring process and training.
Yes, but it will help us in the long run. I think one of the main reasons
why we have been constantly behind the deadlines is that the ratio between
the people and tasks is not balanced.

I understand. What if we extend our employees’ working hours?
That’s possible, but that would mean we have to pay them overtime,
and if they’re overworked, there’s a possibility of them resigning.

Ah, I ______________ your point. We cannot risk losing any more workers. Thank you for the suggestion, Ms. Williams.
You’re welcome.

I will discuss this with our manager as soon as possible.
PART D_1
Let’s read the new dialogue. Read aloud, and fill in the blanks with the vocabulary and expressions you learned.
PART D_2

Thank you for attending this meeting. As discussed last week, there have been difficulties in finishing our tasks on time. Does anybody have any solutions for this?
Mr. Miller, I have one. ______________ that we need to replace our
old equipment with more advanced tools.

That’s a nice suggestion. However, I ______________ because that would mean we have to prepare the budget to purchase new equipment.
Yes, but if we have more advanced equipment, our work would be done
more efficiently.

How about creating new best practices to improve the processes?
We can also do that, and if we have new tools, our productivity will improve further.

I definitely ______________. Thank you for the suggestion. I will discuss this with our manager later.
You’re welcome, Mr. Miller.

PART E_1
Let’s do a roleplay. Talk with me according to the situation below, using the expressions you just learned.
PART E_2
Your team is in a meeting with your supervisor. Suggest ways to improve the process for quality assurance. Your tutor will pretend to be your supervisor.
PART E_3
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 in 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.

Business (Intermediate Chapter 1)|ビジネス会話(中級1章)
Lesson83: Negotiating an offer

PART A_1
Let’s learn new vocabulary. Listen and repeat these words and sentences after your tutor.
PART A_2
1. effort 努力
  The team exerts extra effort in doing their tasks.
2. raise 昇給、賃上げ
  Is it possible to ask for a raise?
3. compromise 妥協する
  They compromised by giving him a discount instead.
4. sleep (on something) ~についてひと晩寝て考える、~の決定を翌日に延ばす
  They gave me a good offer but decided to sleep on it.
5. settle (for something) ~で我慢する、~で手を打つ
  Instead of $2500, they settled for $2300.
PART A_3
I will ask the questions. Please answer them in complete sentences.
PART A_4
1. How does your company acknowledge its employees’ efforts?
2. Have you asked for a raise before?
3. When do you usually compromise in business?
4. What offers have you slept on?
5. Do you usually settle for something that is offered to you?
PART B_1
Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.
PART B_2

Good morning, Ms. Williams. Thank you for your time.
You’re welcome. What would you like to discuss with me, Mr. Rogers?

Last week, I received my performance evaluation results and I have gone beyond the sales target consistently by 10%. Is there any room to negotiate my base pay?
We appreciate your efforts in going beyond the target. However,
salary raise is not feasible at the moment.

Oh, I see.
We can, however, compromise. Would you settle for extra
paid vacation leave? You can use it any time.

Hmm, that does sound great. But I’d like to sleep on it.
All right. Let’s talk again tomorrow.

(The next day)
Hi, Mr. Rogers. Have you already decided?

Yes. I’ve had the chance to review your offer and I accept.
Thank you. Rest assured that we shall give you a raise once the budget
is no longer tight. I’ll discuss this with the manager.

PART C_1
Let’s read the dialogue. Read aloud and fill in the blanks as you remember the sentences you just read.
PART C_2

Good morning, Ms. Williams. Thank you for your time.
You’re welcome. What would you like to discuss with me, Mr. Rogers?

Last week, I received my performance evaluation results and I have gone beyond the sales target consistently by 10%. Is there ______________ my base pay?
We appreciate your efforts in going beyond the target. However,
salary raise is not feasible at the moment.

Oh, I see.
We can, however, compromise. Would you settle for extra
paid vacation leave? You can use it any time.

Hmm, that does sound great. But I’d like to ______________.
All right. Let’s talk again tomorrow.

(The next day)
Hi, Mr. Rogers. Have you already decided?

Yes. I’ve had the chance ______________ and I accept.
Thank you. Rest assured that we shall give you a raise once the budget
is no longer tight. I’ll discuss this with the manager.

PART D_1
Let’s read the new dialogue. Read aloud and fill in the blanks with the vocabulary and expressions you learned.
PART D_2

Good morning, Ms. Stone. Thank you for your time. I would like to discuss my evaluation results.
Please, go on ahead.

My recent evaluation results show that I have exceeded the targets consistently by 23%. ______________ to negotiate my base pay?
Salary raise is not feasible as of the moment. However, we can
compromise a 5% increase on your base pay.

Hmm… That’s a good offer, but I’d ______________.
(The next day)

Good morning, Ms. Stone. I’ve ______________ to review your offer and I accept.
Wonderful! I’ll discuss this with our manager today
and update you tomorrow.

Thank you!
PART E_1
Let’s do a roleplay. Talk with me according to the situation below using the expressions you just learned.
PART E_2
You have received your performance evaluation results and it showed that you exceeded the targets by 15%. Negotiate a salary raise with your supervisor. Your tutor will pretend to be your supervisor.
PART E_3
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.

Business (Intermediate Chapter 1)|ビジネス会話(中級1章)
Lesson75: Explaining the purpose of tools

PART A_1
Let’s learn new vocabulary. Listen and repeat these words with your tutor.
PART A_2
1. educational 教育の、ためになる
  The task management seminar I attended was educational.
2. search engine 検索エンジン
  Use this new search engine since it’s faster.
3. rely on ~に頼る
  You can rely on me for any assistance you may need.
4. take advantage (of something) ~をうまく利用する、~を生かす
  We have to take advantage of the summer season to promote our products.
5. efficiently 効率的
  She organizes her task efficiently.
PART A_3
I will ask the questions. Please answer them in complete sentences.
PART A_4
1. What do you consider educational in your line of work when attending seminars?
2. What do you use search engines for at work?
3. Do you often rely on technology and the Internet to get your work done?
4. What do you or your company take advantage of when promoting your products and services?
5. How do you accomplish your tasks efficiently?
PART B_1
Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.
PART B_2

Hi, Emma. I just got back from the meeting.
How was it?

It was very educational. I never knew search engines are so useful for businesses.
Oh? Could you tell me more about it?

Yes. Businesses use search engines to seek potential clients. They can also help us promote our products and services.
That is indeed useful, especially now that people rely on technology.
But what do we take advantage of when using search engines?

Ah, that’s a nice question. It was mentioned in the meeting, actually. We should take advantage of credible online sources.
Oh, I see. Then we better start using search engines efficiently to make our jobs easier.

PART C_1
Let’s read the dialogue. Read aloud, filling in the blanks as you remember the sentence you just read.
PART C_2

Hi, Emma. I just got back from the meeting.
How was it?

It was very educational. I never knew search engines are so useful for businesses.
Oh? Could you tell me more about it?

Yes. Businesses use search engines to ______________. They can also help us ______________.
That is indeed useful, especially now that people rely on technology.
But what do we take advantage of when using search engines?

Ah, that’s a nice question. It was mentioned in the meeting, actually. We should ______________ credible online sources.
Oh, I see. Then we better start using search engines efficiently to make our jobs easier.

PART D_1
Let’s read the new dialogue. Read aloud and fill in in the blanks with the vocabulary and expressions you learned.
PART D_2

Hi, Emma. The seminar today was very informative.
What was it about?

Search engines. The seminar taught us that businesses ______________ to look for potential customers.
That’s interesting. Was there anything else?

Search engines also ______________ products and services we offer.
Yes, that is true. People depend on technology nowadays.
So what should we take advantage of when using search engines?

The speaker said we should take advantage of ______________.
PART E_1
Let’s do a roleplay. Talk with me according to the situation below, using the expressions you just learned.
PART E_2
Lead a seminar for your team and discuss the importance of search engines in businesses. Your tutor will pretend to be one of your teammates.
PART E_3
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.

Business (Intermediate Chapter 1)|ビジネス会話(中級1章)
Lesson74: Answering a phone call

PART A_1
Let’s learn new vocabulary. Listen and repeat these words with your tutor.
PART A_2
1. go through 通過する、経る、経由するく
  Let’s wait for the payment to go through before we call customer service.
2. on hold 保留にされて
  Please allow me to put you on hold for one to two minutes.
3. shortly 間もなく、すぐに
  Jack will be back with the equipment shortly.
4. overdue 期限が切れた、過度の
  Your balance is already overdue. Please settle your payment on or before August 5.
5. balance 残高
  Your remaining balance for this month is $27.
PART A_3
I will ask the questions. Please answer them in complete sentences.
PART A_4
1. Have you received any complaint from a customer about his/her payment not going through?
2. For how many minutes do you put the caller on hold?
3. Do your customers receive their requests shortly after calling?
4. What does your company do to customers with overdue statements?
5. How do you inform your customer of his/her balance?
PART B_1
Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.
PART B_2

Prima Telecom. This is Ron speaking. How may I assist you?
Hi, Ron. I’m Emma Rogers. I’m calling to ask about my recent
bill payment. For some reason, it doesn’t go through. Any ideas
what the problem might be?

I’m sorry to hear that, Ms. Rogers. I will look into this issue. May I put you on hold for two minutes?
Sure, I don’t mind.

Thank you. Upon checking, there was a problem connecting to the ecash payment app. You can try paying one more time and call us again to check if the payment is doubled.
How long do you think it will take for the payment to reflect on my end?

It should appear shortly after you pay. If not, please wait for an hour before calling us.
I see. Thank you for your help!

You’re welcome, Ms. Rogers. Is there anything else I could help you with?
No, that’s all.

Thank you for calling Prima Telecom. Again, this is Ron speaking. Have a great day ahead!
PART C_1
Let’s read the dialogue. Read aloud, and fill in the blanks as you remember the sentence you just read.
PART C_2

Prima Telecom. _______ Ron ________. How may I assist you?
Hi, Ron. I’m Emma Rogers. I’m calling to ask about my recent
bill payment. For some reason, it doesn’t go through. Any ideas
what the problem might be?

I’m sorry to hear that, Ms. Rogers. I will look into this issue. May I ______________ for two minutes?
Sure, I don’t mind.

Thank you. ______________, there was a problem connecting to the ecash payment app. You can try paying one more time and call us again to check if the payment is doubled.
How long do you think it will take for the payment to reflect on my end?

It should appear shortly after you pay. If not, please wait for an hour before calling us.
I see. Thank you for your help!

You’re welcome, Ms. Rogers. Is there anything else I could help you with?
No, that’s all.

Thank you for calling Prima Telecom. Again, this is Ron speaking. Have a great day ahead!
PART D_1
Let’s read the new dialogue. Read aloud and fill in the blanks as you remember the sentences you just read.
PART D_2

Company Zen. This is Ron ________. How may I assist you?
Hello, Ron. I’m Emma Perez. I want to pay my overdue balance
but I couldn’t find my last statement. Could you tell me how much I need to pay?

I’d be happy to assist you, Ms. Perez. ______________ on hold for two minutes?
Sure.

Thank you. Upon checking, ______________ is $140. This is for the month of May.
All right. I’ll pay right away. Thanks.

You’re welcome, Ms. Perez. Is there anything else I could help you with?
No, that would be all.

Thank you for calling Company Zen. Again, this is Ron speaking. Have a great day ahead!
PART E_1
Let’s do a roleplay. Talk with me according to the situation below, using the expressions you just learned.
PART E_2
A customer called to ask about the status of his/her recent refund. Inform the customer that the refund has been approved. Your tutor will pretend to be the customer.
PART E_3
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.

Business (Intermediate Chapter 1)|ビジネス会話(中級1章)
Lesson66: Directions to a business venue

PART A_1
Let’s learn new vocabulary. Listen and repeat these words and sentences after your tutor.
PART A_2
1. direction 方向
  Could you send me the directions to your office, please?
2. land 着陸する、着地する
  We have landed at Incheon International Airport safely.
3. main road 主要道路
  The building is along the main road.
4. huge 巨大な
  You’ll find it next to a huge entertainment building.
5. bistro 小さな居酒屋、ビストロ
  I’d recommend the bistro near our office.
PART A_3
I will ask the questions. Please answer them in complete sentences.
PART A_4
1. Could you share the directions to your office from its nearest bus or train station?
2. What would you do first upon landing if you are on a business trip?
3. Is your office located on the main road?
4. Are there any huge buildings or establishments next to your office?
5. How often do you go to bistros after work?
PART B_1
Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.
PART B_2

Hello, this is Ron Edwards. I heard you’ve already landed.
Hi, Mr. Edwards. Yes, I’m already here, but I need the directions
to get to your office.

First, take a taxi from the airport to Ace Building. It’s along West Street’s main road.
Got it. How long will it take me to get there?

It’s a thirty-minute ride from the airport.
Okay. Is there any landmark next to your office?

Ah, yes, it’s the building next to a huge convenience store to the right.
Thank you!

No problem. Looking forward to your arrival.
PART C_1
Let’s read the dialogue. Read aloud and fill in the blanks as you remember the sentences you just read.
PART C_2

Hello, this is Ron Edwards. I heard you’ve already landed.
Hi, Mr. Edwards. Yes, I’m already here, but I need the directions
to get to your office.

First, ______________ from the airport to Ace Building. It’s along West Street’s main road.
Got it. How long will it take me to get there?

It’s a ______________ from the airport.
Okay. Is there any landmark next to your office?

Ah, yes, it’s the building ______________ a huge convenience store to the right.
Thank you!

No problem. Looking forward to your arrival.
PART D_1
Let’s read the new dialogue. Read aloud and fill in the blanks with the vocabulary and expressions you learned.
PART D_2

Hi, Ms. White. Have you already arrived at the airport?
Hello, Mr. Smith. Yes, I’m already here, but I’m afraid I don’t know
how to get to your office.

Ah, I see. First, take a taxi ______________ to Diamond Buiding. It’s along Wingfield Avenue.
Okay, got it. How long will it take me to arrive there?

It’s a ______________ from the airport.
Is there any landmark next to or around your office?

Yes, it’s the ______________ next to a bistro to the left.
Thank you! I’ll be on my way.

PART E_1
Let’s do a roleplay. Talk with me according to the situation below using the expressions you just learned.
PART E_2
Your business partner has arrived at the airport; however, he/she is unfamiliar with how to get to the office. Contact your tutor, who will pretend to be your business partner, and give them the directions to your office building.
PART E_3
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.

Business (Intermediate Chapter 1)|ビジネス会話(中級1章)
Lesson65: Details of a business trip

PART A_1
Let’s learn new vocabulary. Listen and repeat these words and sentences after your tutor.
PART A_2
1. business trip 出張
  My apologies, but Mr. Jones is on a business trip.
2. estimated 推定
  The estimated number of visitors to the event is 200.
3. forward 転送する
  I will forward the details to you through email.
4. soft copy ソフトコピー
  Could you please give me a soft copy of the schedule? Thank you.
5. look into 調査する、検討する
  Please wait while I look into the details.
PART A_3
I will ask the questions. Please answer them in complete sentences.
PART A_4
1. Have you been on a business trip before? If so, to where, and how was it?
2. What is the estimated hour of work do you do in a week?
3. Do you often forward emails to your team or superiors?
4. Which do you prefer, hard copy or soft copy of documents?
5. What do you consider the most when looking into proposals?
PART B_1
Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.
PART B_2

Hi, Emma. I’m glad you could make it. Please take a seat.
Thank you.

We’ll discuss the details of our business trip. We will meet at 9:00 a.m. because we should check in at least two hours before our flight.
What will be our estimated arrival time?

Our arrival time at Noi Bai International Airport is 6:00 p.m.
Understood. Do we have a schedule for our activities?

Yes. Please refer to the detailed itinerary of our trip to Hanoi. I will be forwarding a soft copy to you via email.
Thank you, I’ll look into it once I receive it.

PART C_1
Let’s read the dialogue. Read aloud and fill in the blanks as you remember the sentences you just read.
PART C_2

Hi, Emma. I’m glad you could make it. Please take a seat.
Thank you.

We’ll discuss the details of our business trip. We will meet at 9:00 a.m. because we should ______________ two hours before our flight.
What will be our estimated arrival time?

______________ at Noi Bai International Airport is 6:00 p.m.
Understood. Do we have a schedule for our activities?

Yes. Please ______________ the detailed itinerary of our trip to Hanoi. I will be forwarding a soft copy to you via email.
Thank you, I’ll look into it once I receive it.

PART D_1
Let’s read the new dialogue. Read aloud and fill in the blanks with the vocabulary and expressions you learned.
PART D_2

Hi, Emma. I’m glad you could make it. Please take a seat.
Thank you.

Let’s discuss the details of our business trip. We will meet at 10:00 a.m. because we should check in ______________ three hours before our flight.
I see. What will be our estimated arrival time?

______________ at Manila International Airport is 5:00 p.m.
Noted. Do we have a schedule for our activities?

Yes. Please refer to ______________ of our trip to Manila. I will be sending you a soft copy via email.
Thank you, I’ll look into it once I receive it.

PART E_1
Let’s do a roleplay. Talk with me according to the situation below using the expressions you just learned.
PART E_2
You and a colleague will go on a business trip to Los Angeles. Please discuss the details with him/her. Your tutor will pretend to be your colleague.
PART E_3
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.

Business (Intermediate Chapter 1)|ビジネス会話(中級1章)
Lesson59: Marketing plan

PART A_1
Let’s learn new vocabulary. Listen and repeat these words with your tutor.
PART A_2
1. target customer(s) 対象顧客、ターゲット顧客
  Our product’s target customers are university students.
2. registration 登録
  Student registration will start next week.
3. pique (someone’s) interest ~(人)の興味をそそる
  The company’s laptop advertisement piqued my interest.
4. timing タイミング
  The meeting’s timing was convenient for everyone.
5. install インストールする、組み込む、導入する
  They will install a new heating system in our office.
PART A_3
I will ask the questions. Please answer them in complete sentences.
PART A_4
1. Who are the target customers of your products and services?
2. Do your customers need registration to access the services you offer?
3. What advertisement has piqued your interest recently?
4. How do you pick the perfect timing when releasing products?
5. What type of CCTV cameras are installed in your office?
PART B_1
Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.
PART B_2

Good morning, everyone. Thank you for attending this meeting. Today’s agenda is our new product: the document scanner mobile app.
May we know the target customers for this product?

Yes. Our target customers are students and workforces, particularly office workers.
Interesting. Could you tell us more about the product?

Of course. The document scanner app is free to use. It also doesn’t need any registration, so users can scan, save, and share any scanned document quickly.
That does sound promising. What would be our next course of action?

After the final testing, we will be advertising it. The best way to promote our product is by running social media ads. We can include teasers to pique their interests.
Great idea. By the way, when are we launching the app?

We are going to officially release the product in spring. It’s the start of the school year, so it’ll be the perfect timing to launch it.
Wonderful. Thank you for sharing your marketing plan. We will schedule
another meeting to discuss it further.

PART C_1
Let’s read the dialogue. Read aloud, filling in the blanks as you remember the sentence you just read.
PART C_2

Good morning, everyone. Thank you for attending this meeting. Today’s agenda is our new product: the document scanner mobile app.
May we know the target customers for this product?

Yes. ______________ are students and workforces, particularly office workers.
Interesting. Could you tell us more about the product?

Of course. The document scanner app is free to use. It also doesn’t need any registration, so users can scan, save, and share any scanned document quickly.
That does sound promising. What would be our next course of action?

After the final testing, we will be advertising it. The best way ______________ is by running social media ads. We can include teasers to pique their interests.
Great idea. By the way, when are we launching the app?

We are going to ______________ in spring. It’s the start of the school year, so it’ll be the perfect timing to launch it.
Wonderful. Thank you for sharing your marketing plan. We will schedule
another meeting to discuss it further.

PART D_1
Let’s read the new dialogue. Read aloud, filling in the blanks with the vocabulary and expressions you learned.
PART D_2

Good day, everyone. Thank you for attending this meeting. I’ll be introducing our new product.
Thank you for arranging this meeting. You can start now.

Our new product is bullet CCTV cameras. Our ______________ are schools.
Could you tell us more about the cameras?

Bullet CCTV cameras are easy to install and weatherproof. They can be installed in and out of establishments. Our bullet CCTV cameras also have built-in night visions.
That’s wonderful. How are we going to advertise it?

The ______________ is by direct marketing. We can start with the schools in this area.
When will we start selling the cameras?

We are ______________ in fall.
PART E_1
Let’s do a roleplay. Talk with me according to the situation below, using the expressions you just learned.
PART E_2
Your company will release a new product: noise-canceling headsets. Present the marketing plan to your team. Your tutor will pretend to be one of your teammates.
PART E_3
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.

Business (Intermediate Chapter 1)|ビジネス会話(中級1章)
Lesson51: Talking with other attendants

PART A_1
Let’s learn new vocabulary. Listen and repeat these words with your tutor.
PART A_2
1. accountant 会計士
  She’s training to be an accountant.
2. branch 支店、出張所
  I work as an IT staff at the Sapporo branch.
3. grow 育つ
  I can see that my team is working hard to grow.
4. challenge 挑戦、手ごたえのある課題、仕事
  Challenges are essential to be successful.
5. quality assurance 品質保証
  Once done, please proceed to quality assurance check.
PART A_3
I will ask the questions. Please answer them in complete sentences.
PART A_4
1. Have you worked as an accountant before?
2. Does the company you work for have different branches?
3. Do you see challenges as opportunities to grow?
4. What task at work did you consider as a challenge?
5. Why is quality assurance check important?
PART B_1
Let’s read the dialogue. I will play Ron and you will play Emma. Then, we’ll switch roles.
PART B_2

Hi! We work in the same company but I don’t think we’ve been introduced. I’m Ron Samuels. Nice to meet you.
I’m Emma Lee. It’s nice to meet you, too!

What do you do?
I work as an accountant at the Kyoto branch. And you?

I’m a trainer at the Tokyo branch. How long have you been working as an accountant?
I’ve been working as an accountant for a year now.

Oh, I see. How’s work so far?
There are many challenges, but I enjoy them since I see them
as opportunities to grow. What about you?

Oh, being a trainer is difficult, but seeing the trainees pass makes me feel proud of them and myself.
There’s this sense of accomplishment, right?

Indeed. Anyway, it’s a pleasure talking to you. I hope we get to communicate more!
PART C_1
Let’s read the dialogue. Read aloud, and fill in the blanks as you remember the sentence you just read.
PART C_2

Hi! We work in the same company but I don’t think ______________. I’m Ron Samuels. Nice to meet you.
I’m Emma Lee. It’s nice to meet you, too!

What do you do?
I work as ______________ at the ______________. And you?

I’m a trainer at the Tokyo branch. How long have you been working as an accountant?
______________ an accountant for a year now.

Oh, I see. How’s work so far?
There are many challenges, but I enjoy them since I see them
as opportunities to grow. What about you?

Oh, being a trainer is difficult, but seeing the trainees pass makes me feel proud of them and myself.
There’s this sense of accomplishment, right?

Indeed. Anyway, it’s a pleasure talking to you. I hope we get to communicate more!
PART D_1
Let’s read the new dialogue. Read aloud, and fill in the blanks with the vocabulary and expressions you learned.
PART D_2

Hello! Are you new? I don’t think we’ve been introduced. I’m Ron Clark.
Hi! Yes, I’m a new employee. I’m Emma Scott. Nice to meet you.

Nice to meet you, too. So Emma, what do you do?
______________ a sales staff at the Fukuoka ______________. And you?

I’m a quality assurance checker at the Shizuoka branch. How long have you been working as a sales staff?
I’ve been ______________ for seven months.

I see. How’s work so far?
Being a sales staff is difficult, but I’ve been doing my best!

That’s great to hear! I hope you’ll stay with us for a long time.
PART E_1
Let’s do a roleplay. Talk with me according to the situation below, using the expressions you just learned.
PART E_2
You are in a company event where employees from different branches meet. Talk with one of the employees from the Sendai branch. Your tutor will pretend to be the employee.
PART E_3
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 in 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.