英語4技能対策

Lesson 13  Japanese Gardens


Lesson 13   Japanese Gardens


Topic Question: “Why are Japanese gardens so famous? Can you suggest one to visit?”


▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about the elements that make Japanese gardens unique and renowned worldwide. Consider suggesting a specific garden that exemplifies these characteristics.


▮ Sample Answer
“Japanese gardens are famous for their tranquility and beauty. They use natural landscapes to create peaceful spaces. The Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa is a great example. It’s known for its seasonal beauty, especially in autumn and spring.”


▮ Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer
Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly


  1. Tranquility (静けさ): Quality or state of being tranquil; calm.
  2. Natural landscapes (自然景観): The physical landscape or environment that has not been modified by human activity.
  3. Peaceful (平和な): Free from disturbance; tranquil.
  4. Seasonal (季節の): Relating to or varying with the seasons.
  5. Especially (特に): To a great extent; very much.


▮ Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. Why are Japanese gardens renowned?
  2. What makes Kenrokuen Garden worth visiting?
  3. In which seasons is Kenrokuen Garden particularly beautiful?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar

I was doing (past continuous)


A:


B:  Was/were + -ing is the past continuous:

What were you doing at 11:30 yesterday? Were you working?
What did he say? I don’t know. I wasn’t listening.
I woke up early yesterday. It was a beautiful morning. The sun was shining, and the
birds were singing.


C:  Am/is/are + -ing(present) → was/were + -ing (past):

I’ m working (now). I was working at 10:30 last night.
It isn’t raining (now). It wasn’t raining when we went out.


Example Sentences:

“What were you doing when I called you yesterday?” “I was visiting Kenrokuen Garden.”
“It was raining, but the beauty of the garden was still evident. The flowers were blooming, and the water was reflecting the sky.”
“While I was walking through the garden, I felt completely at peace.”


Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 12  Natural Scenery


Lesson 12  Natural Scenery


Topic Question: “Where can I see beautiful natural scenery in Japan?”


▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Reflect on places in Japan known for their natural beauty. Consider different regions and the unique landscapes they offer.


▮ Sample Answer
“In Japan, the Kyoto area is known for beautiful natural scenery, especially during cherry blossom season. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Kinkaku-ji’s surrounding gardens are breathtaking. Hokkaido’s national parks also offer stunning landscapes in every season.”


▮ Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer
Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly


  1. Scenery (風景): The natural features of a landscape considered in terms of their appearance, especially when picturesque.
  2. Especially (特に): Used to single out one person, thing, or situation over all others.
  3. Breathtaking (息をのむような): Astonishing or awe-inspiring in quality, so as to take one’s breath away.
  4. Stunning (驚くほど美しい): Extremely impressive or attractive.
  5. Season (季節): Each of the four divisions of the year (spring, summer, autumn, and winter).


▮ Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What area in Japan is known for its beautiful natural scenery?
  2. Can you name a specific place in Kyoto that offers breathtaking views?
  3. What does Hokkaido offer in terms of natural beauty?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar

I didn’t… Did you… ?
(simple past negative and questions)


A:  We use did in simple past negatives and questions:


B:  Do/does(present)→did(past):

I don’t watch television very often.
I didn’t watch television yesterday.

Does she go out often?
Did she go out last night?


C: We use did/didn’t+ base form (watch/play/go, etc.):

I played tennis yesterday, but I didn’t win.
“Did you do your homework?” “No, I didn’t have time.”
We went to the movies, but we didn’t enjoy the film.


D: Short answers

Did you see Joe yesterday? No, I didn’t.
Did it rain on Sunday? Yes, it did.
Did Helen come to the party? No, she didn’t.


Example Sentences:
I visited Hokkaido last year, but I didn’t see the national parks.
“Did you go to Kyoto during cherry blossom season?” “Yes, I did.”
We tried to visit Kinkaku-ji, but we didn’t make it in time.


Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 11  Historical Sites


Lesson 11  Historical Sites


Topic Question: “Can you recommend a historical site in Japan that tells a lot about its history?”


▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Consider the historical sites in Japan you know about. Which one do you think offers deep insights into Japanese history?


▮ Sample Answer
“I recommend visiting Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. It tells the story of Hiroshima’s past and the importance of peace. The atomic bomb dome is especially moving. It’s a place where history is remembered and future generations learn the value of peace.”


▮ Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer
Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly

  1. Historical site (歴史的な場所): A place of importance in history.
  2. Insights (洞察): Deep understanding.
  3. Moving (感動的な): Causing strong feelings of sadness or sympathy.
  4. Remembered (記憶される): Kept in memory.
  5. Generations (世代): All of the people born and living at about the same time.


▮ Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What historical site in Japan do you recommend visiting?
  2. What does Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park tell us?
  3. Why is the atomic bomb dome considered especially moving?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar

worked/got/went, etc. (simple past)


A:

They watch television every night.
(simple present)
They watched television last night.
(simple past)

watched is the simple past:

I/we/you/they
watched
he/she/it


B: The simple past is often -ed (regular verbs). For example:
I brush my teeth every morning. This morning I brushed my teeth.
Yesterday it rained all morning. It stopped at lunchtime.

cry→cried stop→stopped plan→planned


C: Some verbs are irregular. The simple past is not -ed. Here are some important
irregular verbs


begin →began fall →  fell leave → left  sell → sold
break   broke find    found lose   lost sit    sat
bring  brought  fly    flew  make  made  sleep  slept
build  built  forget  forgot  meet  met speak  spoke
buy   bought get    got  pay    paid   stand  stood
catch  caught  give   gave  put   put take   took
come  came   go     went  read  read  tell    told
do   did  have   had   ring   rang  think   thought
drink  drank  hear   heard say   said win   won
eat   ate  know    knew  see   saw  write   wrote


● I usually get up early, but this morning I got up at 9:30.
● We did a lot of work yesterday.
● Caroline went to the mo”1ies three times last week.
● James came into the room, took off his coat, and sat down.


Example Sentences:
Yesterday, I visited the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.
Last year, we traveled across Japan to see various historical sites.
In the past, the samurai protected the cities. They wore armor and carried swords.


Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 10  Famous Landmarks


Lesson 10  Famous Landmarks


Topic Question: “What is the most famous landmark in Japan that I should visit?”


▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Consider the landmarks in Japan you’re familiar with. Which one stands out to you as a must-see for visitors?


▮ Sample Answer
“The most famous landmark in Japan is Mount Fuji. It’s beautiful and iconic. Many people climb it for the sunrise view. It represents Japan’s natural beauty and spiritual significance. Everyone should see it at least once.”


▮ Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer
Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly


  1. Landmark (ランドマーク): A recognizable natural or artificial feature used for navigation.
  2. Iconic (象徴的な): Recognized as a symbol.
  3. Climb (登る): To ascend or go up.
  4. Sunrise (日の出): The time in the morning when the sun appears or full daylight arrives.
  5. Represents (表す): To be a symbol or embodiment of.


▮ Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What is the most famous landmark in Japan?
  2. Why do many people climb Mount Fuji?
  3. What does Mount Fuji represent?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar

was/were


A: am/is (present)→was (past):
I am tired. (now)       I was tired last night.
Where is Kate? (now)      Where was Kate yesterday?
The weather is nice today.   The weather was nice last week.

are (present)→were (past):

You are late. (now)      You were late yesterday.

They aren’t here. (now)    They weren’t here last Sunday.


B:  Positive / Negative / Question

When I was a child, I was afraid of dogs.
We were hungry after the trip, but we weren’t tired.

Was the weather nice when you were on vacation?
Your shoes are nice. Were they expensive?


C:  Short answers
Was Ted at work yesterday?” “Yes, he was.
Were Sue and Steve at the party?” “No, they weren’t.


Example Sentences:
● Mount Fuji was beautiful yesterday.
● The cherry blossoms were in full bloom last spring, but they weren’t blooming when I visited.
● Was the view from the top of Mount Fuji breathtaking?
● Were the streets crowded during the festival?


Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 9  Japanese Television Shows


Lesson 9  Japanese Television Shows


Topic Question: “Do you watch any Japanese TV shows or variety shows? Which one do you recommend?”


▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about Japanese TV shows or variety shows you know or have watched. What makes them unique or enjoyable?


▮ Sample Answer
“I watch a Japanese variety show called ‘Gaki no Tsukai’. It’s very funny and creative. The challenges and games make me laugh a lot. I recommend it to everyone who enjoys humor and fun competitions.”


▮ Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer

Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly


  1. Variety show (バラエティショー): A TV program with a mix of comedy sketches, music performances, and other entertainments.
  2. Challenges (挑戦): Tasks or problems that test a person’s abilities.
  3. Games (ゲーム): Structured forms of play, often undertaken for entertainment.
  4. Laugh (笑う): To make sounds with your voice, usually while smiling, because something is funny.
  5. Competitions (競争): Events where people try to win by being the best, the fastest, etc.


▮ Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What kind of Japanese TV show do you watch?
  2. Why do you find ‘Gaki no Tsukai’ enjoyable?
  3. Can you mention a specific segment or game from ‘Gaki no Tsukai’ that you found particularly funny?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar

I have.. . and I’ve got…


A:  You can say I have or I’ve got, he has or he’s got:


B:  I don’t have / I haven’t got, etc. (negative)


I have a bike, but I don’t have a car. or I’ve got a bike, but I haven’t got a car.
Mr. and Mrs. Harris don’t have any children. or … haven’t got any children.
It’s a nice house, but it doesn’t have a garage. or … it hasn’t got a garage.


C:  Do you have … ? / Have you got ..? etc. (questions)

Do you have a camera? or Have you got a camera?
Does Helen have a car? or Has Helen got a car?
What kind of car does she have? or What kind of car has she got?


Example Sentences:
I have a favorite Japanese TV show. / I’ve got a favorite Japanese TV show.
I don’t have a preference for any particular genre. / I haven’t got a preference for any particular genre.
Do you have a Japanese TV show you like? / Have you got a Japanese TV show you like?


Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 8   Japanese book or author


Lesson 8   Japanese book or author


Topic Question: Can you suggest a Japanese book or author I should read? What is the story about?


Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about your favorite Japanese books or authors and the stories they have written. Consider why someone might find these stories interesting or important.


Sample Answer
“I recommend ‘Kokoro’ by Natsume Soseki. It’s a deep story about friendship, loneliness, and the generation gap in Japan. It shows complex emotions and Japanese culture.”


Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer
 -Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly


  1. Recommend (お勧めする): To suggest that someone or something would be good or suitable for a particular purpose or job.
  2. Friendship (友情): The emotions or conduct of friends; the state of being friends.
  3. Loneliness (孤独): Sadness because one has no friends or company.
  4. Generation gap (世代間の隔たり): Differences of outlook or opinion between people of different generations.
  5. Complex (複雑な): Consisting of many different and connected parts.


Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What book does the student recommend?
  2. What themes does “Kokoro” explore?
  3. Can you name some emotions or concepts that are important in “Kokoro”?


Mastering Middle School English Grammar

Do you… ? (simple present questions)

I am doing (present continuous) and

I do (simple present)


A:  Jack is watching television.

He is not playing the guitar.

Is he playing the guitar?    No, he isn’t.

Does he play the guitar?    Yes, he does.


B: Present continuous (I am doing) = now, at the time of speaking:

Tom is taking a shower at the moment. (not Tom takes)


C:  Simple present (I do) = in general, all the time, or sometimes:

I work every day from 9:00 to 5:30.

Tom takes a shower every morning.

It rains a lot in the winter.

I don’t watch television very often.

What do you usually do on weekends?


D:  We do not use these verbs in the present continuous (I am -ing):

like prefer love hate want need know mean understand believe remember forget .

Use only the simple present with these verbs (I want/ do you like?, etc.):



Example Sentences:

A: Do you read Japanese books?

B: Does she understand the story’s themes?

C: Do we always find the generation gap in stories?


Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 7  Fashion trends


Lesson 7   Fashion trends


Topic Question: “Are there any Japanese fashion trends or styles you find interesting?”


Try Answering the Question Yourself
Reflect on Japanese fashion trends or styles that capture your interest. Consider what makes these trends appealing or unique to you.


Sample Answer

“Yes, I find Harajuku style very interesting. It’s colorful and creative, combining traditional and modern elements. People wear unique outfits, mixing patterns and accessories. It doesn’t follow the usual fashion rules, which makes it stand out. Harajuku represents freedom in fashion, allowing everyone to express their personality.”


Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer

Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly


  1. Colorful (カラフルな): Having bright colors or a lot of different colors.
  2. Creative (創造的な): Relating to or involving the use of the imagination or original ideas.
  3. Traditional (伝統的な): Existing in or as part of a tradition; long-established.
  4. Modern (現代的な): Relating to the present or recent times.
  5. Accessories (アクセサリー): Items added to something else to make it more useful, versatile, or attractive.
  6. Express (表現する): To show, manifest, or reveal.


Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What is Harajuku style like?
  2. How does Harajuku style differ from usual fashion trends?
  3. What does Harajuku style represent in terms of fashion expression?


Mastering Middle School English Grammar

I don’t… (simple present negative)


A: The simple present negative is don’t/doesn’t + verb:

“I don’t follow mainstream fashion trends.”
“She doesn’t dress like everyone else.”


B: I/we/you/they don’t… he/she/it doesn’t…

“We don’t just wear clothes; we express our individuality.”
“It doesn’t require a lot of money to be fashionable in this style.”


C: We use don’t/doesn’t + base form (don’t like / doesn’t speak / doesn’t do, etc.):

“I don’t mix patterns often, but Harajuku style encourages it.”
“He doesn’t usually wear bright colors, but he enjoys Harajuku fashion.”


Example Sentences:


“I don’t limit myself to one fashion style.”
“She doesn’t shy away from bold accessories.”
“They don’t ignore traditional elements in their outfits.”


Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 6   Japanese Festivals


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


  1. Floats (山車): Platforms with wheels, used in parades, displaying elaborate decorations.
  2. Traditional (伝統的な): Relating to or based on old customs and ideas.
  3. Yukatas (浴衣): A casual summer kimono usually made of cotton.
  4. 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.
  5. Celebrates (祝う): To acknowledge a significant or happy day or event with festivities.


Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What is the Gion Matsuri, and when does it happen?
  2. What are some activities that take place during the Gion Matsuri?
  3. 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:

Lesson 5   Video Games


Lesson 5   Video Games


Topic Question: “What Japanese video game do you enjoy playing, and what makes it fun?”


Try Answering the Question Yourself
Consider a Japanese video game that you find enjoyable. Think about the elements of the game that make it entertaining for you.


Sample Answer

“I enjoy playing ‘The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.’ It’s fun because of the open world you can explore. There are so many puzzles and challenges. The graphics are beautiful, and the story is engaging. It feels like a real adventure.”


Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer

Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly


  1. Open world (オープンワールド): A type of video game design where a player can freely explore the world.
  2. Puzzles (パズル): Games, problems, or toys that test a person’s ingenuity or knowledge.
  3. Challenges (挑戦): Tasks or situations that test someone’s abilities.
  4. Graphics (グラフィックス): Visual components of a game.
  5. Engaging (魅力的な): Attractive or pleasing in a way that holds attention.


Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What is the title of the game you enjoy?
  2. Why do you find ‘Breath of the Wild’ fun to play?
  3. What aspects of the game make it feel like a real adventure?


Mastering Middle School English Grammar

are you doing? (present continuous questions)


A: Positive / Question

Positive: “You are playing a Japanese video game.”
Question: “Are you playing a Japanese video game?”


B: is/are + subject + -ing

“Is she exploring the open world?”
“Are they solving puzzles in the game?”


C: Short answers

Yes, I am. / No, I’m not.
Yes, she is. / No, she isn’t.
Yes, they are. / No, they aren’t.


Example Sentences:

Question: “Are you enjoying the game?”
Short answer: “Yes, I am.”
Question: “Is your friend watching you play?”
Short answer: “No, he isn’t.”
Question: “Are they completing a challenge right now?”
Short answer: “Yes, they are.”


Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 4   J-Pop artist or band


Lesson 4   J-Pop artist or band


Topic Question: “Who is your favorite J-Pop artist or band, and what song do you recommend?”


Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about your favorite J-Pop artist or band. What makes them stand out? Consider a song of theirs that you would recommend and why.


Sample Answer

“My favorite J-Pop artist is Hikaru Utada. I recommend the song ‘First Love.’ It is very emotional and has beautiful lyrics. Utada’s voice is amazing. This song shows the power of first love and its impact on us.”


Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer

Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly


  1. Emotional (感情的な): Relating to one’s emotions.
  2. Lyrics (歌詞): The words of a song.
  3. Amazing (素晴らしい): Causing great surprise or wonder.
  4. Power (力): The ability to do something or act in a particular way.
  5. Impact (影響): The action of one object coming forcibly into contact with another.


Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. Why do you like Hikaru Utada?
  2. What is special about the song ‘First Love’?
  3. How does Utada’s voice contribute to the song?


Mastering Middle School English Grammar

I am doing (present continuous)


A: am/is/are + doing/eating/running/writing, etc.

“I am listening to J-Pop music.”
“She is singing a song.”
“They are performing on stage.”


B: Am/is/are + -ing = something is happening now.

Is happening: “The concert is happening right now.”
Am listening: “I am listening to ‘First Love’ by Hikaru Utada.”
Are performing: “They are performing at the music festival.”


Example Sentences:

“I am watching a music video.”
“He is playing the guitar.”
“We are enjoying the concert.”


Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself: