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Lesson 19 　　Baseball

Topic Question: “Why is baseball so popular in Japan, and can you recommend a famous team or player?”

▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about the cultural significance of baseball in Japan and what makes it so appealing to the Japanese people. Also, consider mentioning a well-known team or player.

▮ Sample Answer

“Baseball is popular in Japan because of its exciting games and team spirit. A famous team is the Nipponham Fighters, and a notable player is Shohei Otani, known for his batting and pitching skills.”

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

1. Popular (人気がある): Liked, admired, or enjoyed by many people.
2. Exciting (エキサイティング): Causing great enthusiasm and eagerness.
3. Team spirit (チームスピリット): Feelings of camaraderie among the members of a group.
4. Batting (バッティング): The action of hitting the ball with a bat in baseball.
5. Skills (スキル): The ability to do something well.

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

1. Why do you think baseball is so popular in Japan?
2. Can you name a famous baseball team in Japan?
3. Who is a notable baseball player known for their batting and pitching skills?

▮　Mastering Middle School English Grammar

I have done and I did　　 (present perfect and simple past 1)

A:

B: 　We use the present perfect for an action in the past with a result now:

●　 I’ve lost my passport. (= I can’t find my passport now)
●　 Where’s Rebecca? She’s gone to bed. (= she is in bed now)

Usually you can also use the simple past (he washed / I lost, etc.) in these situations. So you
can say:

● Where’s your key? I’ve lost it. or I lost it.

● Is Peter here? No, he’s gone home. or He went home.

Example Sentences:

1. I have watched a Yomiuri Giants game recently. (The experience affects my current feelings about baseball.)
2. Did you see the game last night? Yes, I watched it.”
3. I have always admired the team spirit in Japanese baseball. (My admiration continues to the present.)
4. When did you start following Japanese baseball? I started following it when I was a child.”

Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 18 　　Sumo Wrestling

Topic Question: “Can you explain the rules of Sumo wrestling?”

▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about what you know regarding the rules and rituals of Sumo wrestling. Consider the objective, the dohyo (ring), the attire, and how a match is won.

▮ Sample Answer

“Sumo wrestling is a Japanese sport where two wrestlers fight in a ring. The goal is to force the opponent out of the ring or make them touch the ground with anything other than their feet.”

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

1. Sport (スポーツ): An activity involving physical exertion and skill.
2. Wrestlers (相撲取り): People who participate in wrestling.
3. Ring (土俵): The area where Sumo matches take place.
4. Opponent (対戦相手): A person whom someone competes against in a sport or game.
5. Ground (地面): The solid surface of the earth.

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

1. What is the goal in a Sumo wrestling match?
2. Where do Sumo wrestlers compete?
3. How can a wrestler win a match?

▮　Mastering Middle School English Grammar

for　　since 　　ago

　
A: Jane is in Brazil. She has been there 　　　for three days.
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　since Monday.

B: 　Ago

ago = before now:

Susan starred her new j ob three weeks ago. (= three weeks before now)
When did Tom leave? Ten minutes ago.” (= ten minutes before now)

Compare ago and for:

●　When did Jane arrive in Brazil?

　　　 She arrived in Brazil three days ago.

●　How long has she been in Brazil?
　　　 She has been in Brazil for three days.

Example Sentences:

1. I have been interested in Sumo wrestling for two years.
2. She has been following Sumo matches closely since she visited Japan.
3. The Sumo tournament started five days ago.
4. When did the tournament start? Five days ago.
5. How long have you been a fan of Sumo wrestling?
6. I have been a fan of Sumo wrestling for a few years.

Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 17 　　Public Transportation

Topic Question: “How do I use public transportation to get around in Japan?”

▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about your experiences or what you know about using public transportation in Japan. Consider the types of transportation available and how to navigate them.

▮ Sample Answer

“To get around in Japan, use trains, buses, and subways. Buy a Suica or Pasmo card for easy payment. Trains are punctual and cover many areas, especially in cities like Tokyo.”

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

1. Public transportation (公共交通): Transport services for the general public.
2. Trains (電車): Railway vehicles for passenger travel.
3. Buses (バス): Road vehicles for shared passenger transport.
4. Subways (地下鉄): Underground railway systems in cities.
5. Suica/Pasmo (スイカ/パスモ): Rechargeable fare cards for transportation in Japan.

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

1. What types of public transportation can I use in Japan?
2. How can I pay for public transportation in Japan?
3. Why are trains a good option for getting around in cities like Tokyo?

▮　Mastering Middle School English Grammar

How long have you… ?

A:

B: Compare:

Simple present : 　　Present perfect (have been / have lived / have known, etc.)

Are you married?: How long have you been married.
Do you know Lisa?: How long have you known her.

Present continuous:　　 Present perfect continuous (have been + -ing)

I‘m studying German :　 How long have you been studying German?

David is watching TV.:　　How long has he been watching TV?
　　　　　　　　　　　　He‘s been (= He has been) watching TV since 5:00

Example Sentences:

1. How long have you been using the Suica card? I have been using the Suica card since I arrived in Japan.
2. How long have you known about Japan’s punctual train system? I have known about Japan’s punctual train system for a few years now.
3. How long have you been living in Tokyo? I have been living in Tokyo for three months.

Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 16　　 Japanese Cuisine

Topic Question: “What local food should I try in different regions of Japan?”

▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about the diversity of Japanese cuisine and how it varies from region to region. Consider special dishes unique to certain areas of Japan.

▮ Sample Answer

“In Japan, try sushi in Tokyo, okonomiyaki in Osaka, and ramen in Hakata. Each region has special foods. Hokkaido is famous for seafood, and Kyoto for tofu dishes.”

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

1. Cuisine (料理): Style of cooking.
2. Unique (ユニークな): Being the only one of its kind.
3. Special (特別な): Better, greater, or otherwise different from what is usual.
4. Seafood (海鮮): Sea animals that are eaten as food.
5. Dishes (料理): Food prepared in a particular way as part of a meal.

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

1. What kind of food is Tokyo famous for?
2. Can you name a special dish from Osaka?

▮　Mastering Middle School English Grammar

Have you ever… ?

A: Have been / have driven / have played, etc, is the present perfect (have + past participle):

B: 　We use the present perfect when we talk about a time from the past until now, for example, a
person’s life.

●　Have you been to France?” “No, I haven’t.
●　We’ve been to Canada, but we haven’t been to Alaska.
●　Mary is an interesting person. She has had many different jobs and has lived in many places.

Example Sentences:

1. Have you ever tried sushi in Tokyo?
2. We’ve eaten okonomiyaki in Osaka, and it was delicious.
3. She has visited Hokkaido and tried various seafood dishes there.
4. I have never been to Kyoto, but I’ve heard the tofu dishes are excellent.

Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 15 　　Shop for traditional Japanese items

Topic Question: “Where is the best place to shop for traditional Japanese items?”

▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about places in Japan where traditional items are available. Consider the types of items you might find and the experience of shopping in those places.

▮ Sample Answer

“The best place for traditional Japanese items is Kyoto. It has many shops with crafts, clothes, and food. Places like Gion and Arashiyama offer unique and authentic items.”

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

1. Traditional (伝統的な): Relating to customs or practices from the past.
2. Crafts (工芸品): Objects made by hand.
3. Clothes (衣服): Items worn to cover the body.
4. Food (食べ物): Things people eat.
5. Authentic (本物の): Genuine, real.

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

1. What makes Kyoto the best place for traditional Japanese items?
2. Can you name some types of traditional Japanese items you might find in Kyoto?

▮　Mastering Middle School English Grammar

I used to…

A:

B: 　You can say I used to work… / she used to have… / t hey used to be…, etc.

　　●　When I was a child, I used to like chocolate.
　　●　I used to read a lot of books, but I don’t read much these days.

The negative is I didn’t use to….
　 ●　When I was a child, I didn’t use to like tomatoes.

The question is did you use to… ?
　 ●　Where did you use to live before you came here?

C: 　We use used to… only for the past. You cannot say “I use to …” for the present:

　 ●　I used to play tennis. These days I play golf. (not I use to play golf)
　 ●　 We usually get up early. (not We use to get up early)

Example Sentences:

1. When I was in Japan, I used to visit Kyoto to shop for traditional items.
2. I used to buy crafts and clothes from the local markets in Gion.
3. People used to travel far just to experience the authentic food and culture of Arashiyama.
4. I didn’t use to like sushi, but after my trip to Kyoto, I loved it.
5. Did you use to collect anything traditional from Japan?

Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 14 　Capital of Japan

Topic Question: Please tell me about the capital of Japan.

▮　Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about what you know or have heard about Tokyo, including its landmarks, culture, and significance in Japan.

▮　Sample Answer
“Tokyo is the capital of Japan, known for its vibrant culture, advanced technology, and historical sites. It’s a city where traditional temples stand alongside towering skyscrapers. Tokyo is also famous for its food, fashion, and entertainment districts like Shibuya and Shinjuku.”

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

1. Capital (首都): The city that serves as the seat of government and administrative center of a country.
2. Vibrant (活気がある): Full of energy and life.
3. Technology (技術): The application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry.
4. Historical sites (歴史的な場所): Places that have importance in history due to events, activities, or developments that occurred there.
5. Districts (地区): Areas of a country or city with a distinct identity or purpose.

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

1. What is the capital of Japan?
2. Why is Tokyo considered vibrant?
3. Name two things Tokyo is famous for.

▮　Mastering Middle School English Grammar

I was doing (past continuous) and
I did (simple past)

A:

B:

I started work at 9:00 and finished at 4:30. At 2:30 I was working.
It was raining when we went out. (= it started raining before we went out)
I saw Lucy and Steve this morning. They were waiting at the bus stop.
Kelly fell asleep while she was reading

Example Sentences:

1. I was visiting the Tokyo Tower when it started to rain.
2. Last year, I traveled to Tokyo and saw its historical sites.
3. We were exploring Shibuya district when we decided to try authentic Japanese sushi.

Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:

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

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

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

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: