英語4技能対策

Lesson 49  Obon Festival


Lesson 49  Obon Festival


Topic Question: Can you explain what Obon is and how it is observed?


▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about what you know or might have heard about Obon, its cultural significance, and the ways it is celebrated in Japan.


Sample Answer

“Obon is a Buddhist event observed in Japan to honor the spirits of ancestors. It typically takes place in mid-August and is marked by various rituals such as visiting family graves, cleaning the gravesites, and offering food and prayers. Lanterns are hung outside houses to guide spirits, and a dance known as ‘Bon Odori’ is performed. The festival ends with the floating of lanterns on rivers or the sea, symbolizing the ancestors’ return to the spirit world.”


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


  1. Ancestors (祖先): Family members from past generations.
  2. Rituals (儀式): Established procedures for a religious or other ceremony.
  3. Gravesites (墓地): Places where people are buried.
  4. Lanterns (提灯): Light sources traditionally made of paper and bamboo.
  5. Spirit world (霊界): A supernatural realm of spirits or ancestors.


▮ Answer the Instructor’s 3 Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What is the purpose of Obon in Japan?
  2. How do people prepare for the spirits’ visit during Obon?
  3. What symbolizes the ancestors’ return to the spirit world at the end of Obon?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar

How long does it take…?

How long does it take to get from … to … ?


● How long does it take to get from Los Angeles to New York by train?
● It takes several days to get from Los Angeles to New York by train.
● How long does it take to get from your house co the airport by car?
● It takes ten minutes to get from my house co the airport by car.


How long does it take you to do something?

● How long will it take me to learn to drive?
● It takes Tom 20 minutes to get to work in the mornmg.
● It took us an hour to do the shopping.
● Did it take you a long time to find a job?


Example Sentences Based on the Grammar Practice and Sample Answer:

  1. How long does it take to prepare the food offerings for Obon? (It takes several hours to prepare the food offerings for Obon.)
  2. How long does the Bon Odori dance last during Obon celebrations? (The Bon Odori dance can last for a few hours during Obon celebrations.)
  3. How long does it take for the lanterns to float away and symbolize the return of the spirits? (It takes a short while for the lanterns to float away, symbolizing the spirits’ return to the spirit world.)


Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 48  New Year Celebrations (Shogatsu)


Lesson 48  New Year Celebrations (Shogatsu)


Topic Question: What are some customs or traditions for New Year in Japan?


▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Consider what unique practices, foods, or events are associated with celebrating the New Year in Japan.


Sample Answer

“In Japan, New Year is celebrated with unique customs like visiting shrines for Hatsumode, eating special food such as Osechi-ryori, sending New Year’s cards known as Nengajo, and the ringing of temple bells 108 times at midnight to cleanse away sins. Families also enjoy Mochitsuki, the pounding of rice to make mochi.”

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


  1. Shrines (神社): Sacred places for Shinto worship.
  2. Osechi-ryori (おせち料理): Traditional Japanese New Year food, served in special boxes called Jubako.
  3. Nengajo (年賀状): New Year’s greeting cards sent to friends and family.
  4. Sins (罪): Acts believed to violate moral or divine law.
  5. Mochitsuki (餅つき): The traditional Japanese event of pounding steamed rice to make mochi (rice cakes).


▮ Answer the Instructor’s 3 Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What special foods are eaten during New Year in Japan?
  2. Which tradition involves visiting sacred places at the beginning of the year?
  3. How do Japanese people cleanse away sins at New Year’s Eve?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar: Questions

What… ?  Which…?  How… ?
(questions 4)


What + noun (What color … ? / What kind … ?, etc.)
● What color is your car?  ● What color are your eyes?
● What size is this shirt?  ● What nationality is she?


What without a noun:
● What’s your favorite color?
● What do you want to do tonight?


Which + noun (things or people):
● Which train did you catch – the 9:50 or the 10:30?
● Which doctor did you see – Doctor Lopez, Doctor Gray, or Doctor Hill’


We use which without a noun for things, not people:
● Which is bigger – Canada or Australia?

● What color are his eyes? (not Which color?)
  Which color do you prefer, pink or yellow?
  What is the longest river in the world?
  Which is the longest river – the Mississippi, the Amazon, or the Nile?


How…?

● ‘How was the party last night? ” “It was great.”
● How do you get cowork? ” “By bus.”


Example Sentences Based on the Grammar Practice and Sample Answer:

  1. What color are the envelopes used for Nengajo? (The envelopes are usually white or have traditional designs.)
  2. Which is more popular for the first visit of the year, temples or shrines? (Shrines are more popular for Hatsumode, the first visit of the year.)
  3. How do families participate in Mochitsuki? (Families take turns pounding the rice and shaping the mochi.)


Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 47  Kimono and Traditional Dress


Lesson 47  Kimono and Traditional Dress


Topic Question: On what occasions do Japanese people wear kimonos?


▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about different events and ceremonies in Japan where kimonos might be worn. Consider both traditional and modern contexts.


Sample Answer

“Japanese people wear kimonos on various special occasions like weddings, tea ceremonies, festivals, Coming of Age Day, and New Year’s celebrations. Kimonos represent traditional Japanese culture and are chosen based on the season, event, and wearer’s age and marital status.”


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


  1. Weddings (結婚式): Ceremonies where two people are united in marriage.
  2. Tea ceremonies (茶道): Traditional rituals in Japan for preparing and presenting matcha (powdered green tea).
  3. Festivals (祭り): Public celebrations or gatherings, often with historical or cultural significance.
  4. Season (季節): One of the four periods of the year (spring, summer, autumn, winter), each with its own characteristic weather conditions.
  5. Marital status (婚姻状況): The legal standing of being married or unmarried.


▮ Answer the Instructor’s 3 Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What are some occasions when kimonos are traditionally worn in Japan?
  2. How does the choice of kimono vary?
  3. Why are kimonos significant in Japanese culture?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar:


Who is she talking to? What is it like?
(questions 3)



In questions beginning Who … ? / What … ? / Where … ? / Which … ?, prepositions
(to/from/with, etc.) usually go at the end:


● ‘Where are you from?” ‘I’m from Thailand “
● “Jack was afraid.” “What was he afraid of
● “Who do these books belong to?” “They’re mine.”
● “Tom’s father is in the hospital.” “Which hospital is he in?”
● “ Kate is going on vacation.” “Who with?”/ “Who is she going with?”


What’s it like?/ What are they like?, etc.


When we say “What is it like?,” like is a preposi1io11. lt is not the verb like (Do you like
your new house?).


● A: There’s a new restaurant near my house.
  B: What’s it like? Is it good?
  A: I don’t know. I haven’t eaten there yet.

● A: Did you have a good vacation? What was the weather like’
  B: It was great. It was sunny every day.


Example Sentences Based on the Grammar Practice and Sample Answer:


  1. Which festivals do people wear kimonos at? (People wear kimonos at traditional Japanese festivals.)
  2. What is it like to wear a kimono? (Wearing a kimono feels special and connects one to Japanese traditions.)
  3. Who decides which kimono to wear for a wedding? (The person wearing the kimono or a stylist may decide, based on tradition and personal preference.)


Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 46  Children’s Day (Kodomo no Hi)


Lesson 46   Children’s Day (Kodomo no Hi)


Topic Question: How do families in Japan celebrate Children’s Day?


▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about what you know or might imagine about Children’s Day in Japan. Consider the symbols, activities, and the purpose of this celebration.


Sample Answer

“Families in Japan celebrate Children’s Day by flying carp-shaped kites called ‘koinobori’, displaying samurai dolls to inspire strength, and eating special foods like ‘kashiwa-mochi’. It’s a day to respect children’s personalities and to wish for their happiness and health.”


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


  1. Carp (鯉): A type of fish, often used symbolically in Japan.
  2. Kites (凧): Lightweight frames covered with paper or cloth, designed to be flown in the wind at the end of a long string.
  3. Samurai (侍): Members of the premodern Japanese warrior class.
  4. Strength (強さ): The quality or state of being strong, in terms of physical power or resistance.
  5. Happiness (幸福): The state of being happy, feeling or showing pleasure or contentment.


▮ Answer the Instructor’s 3 Questions Based on the Sample Answer


  1. What are koinobori and why are they important for Children’s Day?
  2. What does the display of samurai dolls signify?
  3. What special foods are associated with Children’s Day?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar

Who saw you? Who did you see?
(questions 2)



In these questions, who/what is the subject:

● Who lives in this house? (= somebody lives in it – who?)
  (not Who does live?)

● What happened? (= something happened – what?)
  (not What did happen?)

● What’s happening? (What’s = What is)

● Who’s got my keys? (Who’s = Who has)


In these questions, who/what is the object:

● Who did you meet yesterday'(= you met somebody – who’)

● What did Paul say? (= Paul said something – what?)

● Who are you calling?

● What was Sylvia wearing?


Compare:

● George likes oranges. → Who likes oranges? – George.
              What does George like? – Oranges.
● Jane won a new car. →  Who won a new car’- Jane.
            What did Jane win? – A new car.


Example Sentences Based on the Grammar Practice and Sample Answer:

  1. Who flies the carp-shaped kites during Children’s Day? (Children and families do.)
  2. What did you see displayed in homes on Children’s Day? (I saw samurai dolls and koinobori.)
  3. Who enjoys eating kashiwa-mochi on this special day? (Children and their families enjoy it.)


Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 45   Coming of Age Day (Seijin Shiki)


Lesson 45  Coming of Age Day (Seijin Shiki)


Topic Question: What happens during the Coming of Age Day celebration in Japan?


▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about the significance of the Coming of Age Day in Japan. What are the customs, activities, and feelings associated with this day?


Sample Answer

“The Coming of Age Day is a Japanese holiday where 20-year-olds celebrate reaching adulthood. They often wear traditional attire like kimonos, attend official ceremonies, and enjoy parties with family and friends. It’s a day of pride and reflection.”


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


  1. Holiday (祝日): A day of celebration or remembrance, officially recognized and often not a workday.
  2. Attire (服装): Clothes, especially of a particular or formal type.
  3. Ceremonies (式典): Formal events, often public, performed on special occasions.
  4. Pride (誇り): A feeling of deep pleasure or satisfaction derived from one’s own achievements.
  5. Reflection (反省): Serious thought or consideration.


▮ Answer the Instructor’s 3 Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What is the Coming of Age Day?
  2. What do 20-year-olds wear on this day?
  3. What feelings do they experience during the celebration?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar

is it…? have you…? do they… ?, etc.
(questions 1)


In questions, the first verb (is/are/have, etc.) is before the subject:


Remember: the subject is after the first verb.

● Where has David gone? (not Where has gone David?)
● Are those people waiting for something? (not Are waiting … ?)
● When was the telephone invented? (not When was invented … ?)


do … ? / does …? / did … ?


Why isn’t … ? / Why don’t … ?, etc. (Why + negative ):
● Where’s John? Why isn’t he here? (not Why he isn’t here?)
● Why can’t Paula come to the meeting tomorrow? (not Why Paula can’t … ?)
● Why didn’t you call me last night?


3 Example Sentences Based on the Sample Answer and Grammar practice:

  1. Is it common for all 20-year-olds to participate in the Coming of Age Day ceremonies?
  2. Have you ever attended a Coming of Age Day ceremony?
  3. Do they wear kimonos only during the official ceremonies, or do they wear them to parties as well?


Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 44  Funeral Rites


Lesson 44  Funeral Rites


Topic Question: “What are some unique aspects of Japanese funeral rites?”


▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself


Japanese funeral rites are deeply rooted in Buddhist and Shinto traditions. They often involve multiple ceremonies that span several days, including a wake (tsuya), a funeral service, cremation, and the gathering for the reading of the will. Unique aspects include the koden (condolence money), the wearing of specific mourning clothes, and the custom of kotsuage, where family members pick up bones from the ashes with chopsticks, placing them in the urn.


Sample Answer

“Japanese funeral rites are deeply respectful, focusing on the family’s farewell and the soul’s peaceful transition. Unlike many Western funerals, they don’t typically involve embalming. The bereaved often wear white, not black, and cremation is chosen over burial. Koden, condolence money, is given, not flowers.”


▮ Words to Learn and Their Meanings
Condolence (哀悼): An expression of sympathy, especially on the occasion of a death.
Cremation (火葬): The disposal of a dead person’s body by burning it to ashes.
Bereaved (遺族): Deprived of a close relation or friend through their death.
Embalming (遺体保存処置): The process of preserving a body after death.


▮ Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer
1. How do Japanese funeral rites differ from those in the West?

2. What unique practice is involved in Japanese funerals that isn’t found in many other cultures?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar

isn’t, haven’t, don’t, etc. (negatives)


I want to go out.      → I don’t want to go out.
They work hard.       → They don’t work hard
Liz plays the guitar.    → Liz doesn’t play the guitar
My father likes his job.  → My father doesn’t like his job.
I got up early this morning.→ I didn’t get up early this morning.
They worked hard yesterday. → They didn’t work hard yesterday.
We played tennis.      → We didn’t play tennis.
Diane had dinner with us. → Diane didn’t have dinner with us.


Sometimes do is the main verb (don’t do / doesn’t do / didn’t do):

Do something! → Don’t do anything!
Sue does a lot on weekends.   → Sue doesn’t do much on weekends.
I did what you said.      → I didn’t do what you said.


▮ Practice Creating Sentences
Try creating sentences based on what you’ve learned about Japanese funeral rites. Use negatives to highlight unique aspects.


“In Japan, the family doesn’t wear black to the funeral; they wear white.”
“Japanese funerals don’t usually involve embalming.


Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 43  Traditional Weddings


Lesson 43  Traditional Weddings


Topic Question: “Can you tell me about traditional Japanese wedding ceremonies?”


▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Consider what you know or have heard about Japanese wedding traditions. How do they compare to wedding ceremonies in other cultures?


Sample Answer

“Traditional Japanese weddings are unique. They include ceremonies like the San-San-Kudo, wearing kimonos, and exchanging symbolic gifts. These rituals celebrate the union of families and honor ancestral traditions. They’re deeply meaningful.”


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


  1. Unique (ユニークな): Being the only one of its kind; unlike anything else.
  2. Ceremonies (式典): Formal religious or public occasions, typically celebrating a particular event.
  3. Rituals (儀式): A series of actions performed according to a prescribed order.
  4. Union (結合): The act of joining two or more things together.
  5. Ancestral (先祖の): Relating to or inherited from ancestors.


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

  1. What are some key elements of a traditional Japanese wedding?
  2. How do traditional Japanese weddings celebrate the union of families?
  3. Can you explain the significance of the San-San-Kudo ceremony?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar:

too/either so am I / neither do I, etc.


Too and either


We use too and either at the end of a sentence.

We use too after a positi11e verb:
● A: I’m happy.
  B: I’m happy, too.

● Jane is a doctor. Her husband is a doctor, too.


We use either after a negative verb:
● A: I’m not happy.
  B: I’m not happy, either. (not I’m not…, too.)

● Bill doesn’t watch TV He doesn’t read newspapers, either.


so am I I neither do I, etc.


so am I = I am, too
so have I= I have, too (etc.):
● A: I ‘m working.
  B: So am I. (= I’m,vorking, too)
● A: I was late for work today.
  B: So was Sam. (= Sam was late, coo)


neither am I = I’m not, either
neither can I = I can’c, either (etc.):

● A: I haven’t been to China
  B: Neither have I. (= I haven’t, either)
● A: Kate can’t cook.
  B: Neither can Tom.
(= Tom can’t, either)


▮ Activity: Create Your Sentences
Using the grammar focus, create sentences related to traditional Japanese weddings or any cultural ceremony you find interesting.


“I admire the beauty of traditional Japanese weddings, too.”
“I haven’t participated in a tea ceremony, and my friend hasn’t either.”
“My family values cultural traditions. So does theirs.”


Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 42  Japanese Sweets and Snacks


Lesson 42  Japanese Sweets and Snacks


Topic Question: “Can you recommend a Japanese sweet or snack I should try?”


▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about Japanese sweets or snacks you’re familiar with or have enjoyed. Which one would you recommend to someone who’s eager to try Japanese treats for the first time?


Sample Answer

“I recommend trying mochi. It’s a sweet made from sticky rice and often filled with sweet red bean paste. Mochi is soft, chewy, and comes in various flavors. It’s a must-try!”


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


  1. Recommend (おすすめする): To suggest something as being good or suitable for a particular purpose or person.
  2. Mochi (もち): A Japanese rice cake made of mochigome, a short-grain japonica glutinous rice.
  3. Sticky (粘り気がある): Tending to adhere to objects upon contact.
  4. Chewy (もちもちした): Food that requires a lot of chewing before swallowing.
  5. Flavors (味): The distinctive taste of food or drink.


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

  1. What makes mochi a good recommendation for someone trying Japanese sweets?
  2. What are some common fillings or flavors found in mochi?
  3. Can you think of another Japanese snack that is popular both in Japan and abroad?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar:

You have? Have you? You are? Are you?, etc.



You can say you have? / it is? / he can’t?, etc., to show that you are interested or surprised

●“You’re late.” “I am? 1’111 sorry.”

● I was sick last week.” “You were? I didn’t know that.”

● “There’s a letter for you.” “There is? Where is it?”

● “Sue isn’t at work today.” “She isn’t? Is she sick?”


Use do/ does for the simple present and did for the simple past:

●“I speak four languages.” “You do? Which ones?”
●“Tim doesn’t eat meat.” “He doesn’t? Does he eat fish


Tag questions

Positive sentence → Negative tag guestion

It’s a nice day, isn’t it? Yes, it’s perfect.
You closed the window, didn’t you? Yes, I think so
Tom will be here soon, won’t he? Yes, probably.


Negative sentence → Positive tag question

You haven’t met my mother, have you? No, I haven’t
You won’t be late, will you? Mo, I’m never late.


Example Sentences:  Based on the Sample Answer

  1. “Mochi is made from sticky rice?” “It is? I didn’t know that!”
  2. “Mochi comes in different flavors, doesn’t it?” “Yes, it does. From strawberry to matcha.”
  3. “You’ve never tried matcha-flavored snacks, have you?”
  4. “Japanese snacks are unique, aren’t they?”


Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 41  Street Food


Lesson 41  Street Food


Topic Question: “What is your favorite Japanese street food?”


▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about the variety of Japanese street food you know or have tasted. Which one is your favorite, and why do you prefer it over others?


▮ Sample Answer
“My favorite Japanese street food is takoyaki. They are ball-shaped and taste amazing. Takoyaki is famous in Osaka. I love it because it’s delicious and fun to eat with friends.”


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


  1. Street food (ストリートフード): Food sold by vendors in public places.
  2. Ball-shaped (球形の): Something that has the shape of a ball.
  3. Famous (有名な): Well-known by many people.
  4. Delicious (おいしい): Tasting very good.
  5. Fun (楽しい): Something that is enjoyable and entertaining.


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

  1. What makes takoyaki your favorite Japanese street food?
  2. Why is takoyaki especially famous in Osaka?
  3. Can you think of another street food that is fun to eat with friends?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar

I am, I don’t, etc.



You can use these verbs in the same way:

● I haven’t seen the movie, but my sister has. (= my sister has seen the movie)
●  A: Please help me.
   B: I’m sorry. I can’t. (= I can’t help you)

●  A: Are you tired?
   B: I was, but I’m not now. (= I was tired, but I’m not tired now)

●  A: Do you think Jane will call tonight?’
   B: She might. (= she might call)
●  A: Are you going to study tonight?
   B: I should, but I probably won’t. (= I should study, but I probably won’t study)


You cannot use ‘m/’s/’ve, etc. (short forms), in this way. You must use am/is/have, etc.:

● She isn’t tired, but he is. (not … but he’s)


But you can use isn’t / haven’t / won’t, etc. (negati11e short Jonns):
● My sister has seen the movie, but I haven’t.


You can use I am/ I’m not, etc., after Yes and No:
● “ Are you tired'” “Yes, I am. / No, I’m not.”
● “Will Bill be here tomorrow?” “Yes, he will. / No, he won’t.”


We use do/does for the simple present
● I don’t like hot weather, but Sue does. (= Sue likes hot weather)
● Sue works hard, but I don’t. (= I don’t work hard)


We use did for the simple past

● A: Did you and Chris like the movie?
● B: I did, but Chris didn’t. (= I liked it, but Chris didn’t like it)
● “I had a good time.” “I did, too.” (= I had a good time, too)
● ” Did it rain yesterday?” “No, it didn’t.”


Using the grammar points above, try to make sentences about Japanese street food. Here are some structures to get you started:

“I haven’t tried , but I’ve heard it’s delicious.”
“Is
tasty?” “Yes, it is. / No, it isn’t.”
“Do you like __?” “I do. / I don’t.”


Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 40  Ramen


Lesson 40  Ramen


Topic Question: “What are the different types of ramen, and which one is your favorite?”


Try Answering the Question Yourself
Consider the variety of ramen flavors and styles available, including the base of the soup, types of noodles, and common toppings. Then, think about which one you prefer and why.


Sample Answer

“There are several types of ramen, like Shoyu, Miso, Tonkotsu, and Shio. My favorite is Tonkotsu ramen because it has a rich, pork-bone broth that’s creamy and full of flavor.”


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


  1. Shoyu (醤油): Soy sauce.
  2. Miso (味噌): A seasoning made by fermenting soybeans with salt and koji.
  3. Tonkotsu (豚骨): A broth made from pork bones.
  4. Shio (塩): Salt.
  5. Rich (濃厚な): Having a strong, full flavor.
  6. Pork-bone broth (豚骨スープ): A soup base made by boiling pork bones.
  7. Creamy (クリーミーな): Having a thick, smooth texture.


Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer


  1. What are some different types of ramen?
  2. Which type of ramen is your favorite and why?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar

It…


We use it for time/day/distance/weather:


Compare it and there:

● It rains a lot in the winter.
  It’s vey rainy in the winter.
  There is a lot of rain in the winter.


● It was very windy yesterday.
  There was a strong wind yesterday.


It’s nice to…, etc


● It’s nice to see you again.
● It’s impossible to under sta nd her.
● It wasn’t easy to find your house.


Don’t forget it:


● It’s raining again. (not Is raining again)
● Is it true that you’re moving to Dallas? (not Is true that …)



Example Sentences:  Based on the Sample Answer

  1. It’s interesting to try different types of ramen and discover which one you like best. (Expressing an opinion about an activity.)
  2. It was difficult to choose my favorite type of ramen because each has its unique taste. (Describing a past difficulty.)
  3. It’s nice to share a bowl of ramen with friends on a cold day. (Expressing a pleasant activity.)


Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself: