Lesson 6 Japanese Festivals
Topic Question: “What is your favorite Japanese festival, and what happens during the festival?”
▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about a Japanese festival that you particularly enjoy. Describe what makes this festival your favorite and detail the activities and events that occur during it.
▮ Sample Answer
“My favorite Japanese festival is the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto. It happens in July. Beautiful floats are paraded through the streets. People wear traditional yukatas and enjoy street food. There are music and dance performances. It’s fun because it brings everyone together and celebrates Japanese culture and history.”
▮ Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer
Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly
- Floats (山車): Platforms with wheels, used in parades, displaying elaborate decorations.
- Traditional (伝統的な): Relating to or based on old customs and ideas.
- Yukatas (浴衣): A casual summer kimono usually made of cotton.
- Street food (ストリートフード): Ready-to-eat food sold by a vendor in a street or other public place.
- Celebrates (祝う): To acknowledge a significant or happy day or event with festivities.
▮ Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer
- What is the Gion Matsuri, and when does it happen?
- What are some activities that take place during the Gion Matsuri?
- Why do you think the Gion Matsuri is fun?
▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar
I do/work/like, etc. (simple present)
A: They read / he likes / I work, etc. = the simple present:
“The festival attracts thousands of visitors.”
“He enjoys watching the parades.”
“I look forward to it every year.”
B: We use the simple present for things that are true in general, or for things that happen sometimes or all the time:
“The Gion Matsuri showcases traditional Japanese culture.”
“Families often gather to watch the fireworks.”
C: Always / never / often / usually / sometimes + simple present
“The floats always look magnificent.”
“Street vendors usually sell delicious food.”
“People sometimes wear special outfits for the occasion.”
Example Sentences:
“Visitors always enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.”
“The parade never fails to impress the crowd.”
“Families often meet up to enjoy the festivities together.”
Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:
