マイチューターの英語4技能対策

Lesson 65 　　Seppuku

Topic Question ：　Why do samurai commit seppuku?

▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Consider the cultural, historical, and personal reasons why a samurai would choose to commit seppuku.

▮ Sample Answer

“Samurai commit seppuku as a way to preserve their honor or take responsibility for their actions. It was seen as a method of dying with dignity rather than falling into the hands of enemies or living in disgrace.”

▮ Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer

1. Honor (名誉): A sense of ethical conduct and duty, highly valued by samurai.
2. Responsibility (責任): The state or fact of having a duty to deal with something or of having control over someone.
3. Dignity (尊厳): The state or quality of being worthy of honor or respect.
4. Disgrace (不名誉): Loss of reputation or respect as the result of a dishonorable action.
5. Enemy (敵): A person who is actively opposed or hostile to someone or something.

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

1. What is the main reason samurai commit seppuku?
2. How does seppuku relate to a samurai’s honor?
3. What alternatives does seppuku present to living in disgrace or captivity?

▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar

If we go… If you see…, etc.

If can be at the beginning of a sentence or in the middle:

If at the beginning

If we take the bus, it will be cheaper.
If you don’t hurry, you’II miss the train.

                    if in the middle

It will be cheaper if we take the bus.
You’ll miss the train if you don’t hurry.

In conversation, we often use the if-part of the sentence alone:

●　Are you going to the concert?” “Yes, if I can get a ticket.

If you see Ann tomorrow…, etc.

After if, we use the present (not will). We say if you see… (not if you will see) ・
●　If you see Ann tomorrow, can you ask her to call me?
●　If I ‘m late tonight, don’t wait for me. (not if I will be)
●　What should we do if it rains? (not if it will rain)

If and when

If I go out = it is possible that I will go out, but I’ m not sure:
● A: 　Are you going out later?
　 B:　 Maybe. If I go out, I’ll close the windows.

When I go out= I’m going out (for sure):

● A: Are you going out later?
　 B: Yes, I am. When I go out, I’ll close the windows.

Compare when and if:

● When I get home tonight, I’m going to take a shower.
●　If I’m late tonight, don’t wait for me. (not　When I’m late)
● We’re going to play basketball if it doesn’t rain. (not when it doesn’t rain)

Example Sentences Based on the Sample Answer and Grammar practice:

1. If a samurai faced disgrace, he might consider seppuku to preserve his honor.
2. Don’t disrespect the complexity of samurai culture by oversimplifying their traditions.
3. Let’s research more about how the practice of seppuku evolved over time.

Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 63　　Dogeza

Topic Question: 　　What is dogeza?

▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about the cultural significance and the context in which dogeza is performed in Japan.

▮ Sample Answer

“Dogeza is a traditional Japanese form of deep apology or request, which involves kneeling directly on the ground and bowing deeply until one’s forehead touches the floor. It symbolizes extreme regret or the earnestness of a request, showing a high level of respect and humility.”

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

1. Apology (謝罪): An expression of regret for having caused inconvenience or harm.
2. Kneeling (ひざまずく): The action of staying in a position in which the body is supported on a knee or knees, as a sign of respect.
3. Bowing (お辞儀): Bending the body or head forward as a sign of respect.
4. Regret (後悔): A feeling of sadness or disappointment over something that has happened or been done.
5. Earnestness (真剣さ): Serious intention or effort.

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

1. What does dogeza involve physically?
2. In what situations is dogeza typically performed?
3. How does dogeza express one’s feelings?

▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar:

the oldest 　the most expensive

The superlative form is -est (oldest) or most … (most expensive).

Short words (old/cheap/nice, etc.)→the -est
old→the oldest cheap→the cheapest
but good→the best bad→the worst

Words ending in -y (easy/heavy, etc.)→the -iest:
nice→the nicest heavy→the heaviest pretty→the prettiest

Long words (careful/ expensive/interesting, etc.)→the most . . . :
careful→the most careful 　　　interesting→the most interesting

We say the oldest … I the most expensive …, etc. (with the).
● The church is very old. It’s the oldest building in the town.
　　(= it is older than all the other buildings)
● Money is important, but it isn’t the most important thing in life.

You can use the oldest / the best / the most expensive, etc. without a noun:
● Ken is a good player, but he isn’t the best on the team.
　　(the best = the best player)

You can use superlati11e + I’ve ever … / you’ve ever …, etc.:
● The movie was very bad. I think it’s the worst movie I’ve ever seen.
● What is the most unusual thing you’ve ever done?

Example Sentences Based on the Sample Answer and Grammar Practice:

1. Dogeza is considered one of the most sincere forms of apology in Japanese culture.
2. This tradition may not be the oldest in Japan, but it’s among the most respected.
3. The gesture of dogeza is seen as the most humble way to express apology or request.

Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 62　　”Itadakimasu”

Topic Question: What does “Itadakimasu” mean?

▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Consider the significance and the cultural context in which “Itadakimasu” is said before meals in Japan.

▮ Sample Answer

“‘Itadakimasu’ is a Japanese phrase said before eating to express gratitude for the food, acknowledging the effort of those who prepared it and the sacrifice of the ingredients. It embodies respect for life and appreciation for the meal.”

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

1. Gratitude (感謝): A feeling of thankfulness and appreciation.
2. Acknowledge (認める): Accept or admit the existence or truth of something.
3. Effort (努力): A vigorous or determined attempt.
4. Sacrifice (犠牲): An act of giving up something valued for the sake of something else regarded as more important or worthy.
5. Embodies (体現する): Be an expression of or give a tangible or visible form to an idea, quality, or feeling.

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

1. What is the purpose of saying “Itadakimasu” before a meal?
2. How does “Itadakimasu” show respect for the meal and its ingredients?
3. In what way does “Itadakimasu” reflect Japanese cultural values?

▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar

not as… as

● Rome is not as old as Athens. (= Athens is older)
● The Grand Hotel isn’t as expensive as the Western. (= the Western 1s more expensive)
● I don’t play soccer as often as you. (= you play more often)
● The weather is better than it was yesterday. It isn’t as cold. (= as cold as it was yesterday)

Not as much as … / not as many as …
● I don’t have as much money as you. (= you have more money)
● I don’t know as many people as you. (= you know more people)
● I don’t go out as much as you. (= you go out more)

We usually say: as me / as him / as her, etc.
You can say:
● She’s not as old as him. or She’s not as old as he is.
● You don’t work as hard as me. or You don’t work as hard as I do.

We say the same as … :
● The weather today is the same as yesterday.
● My hair is the same color as yours.
● I arrived at the same time as Tim.

Example Sentences Based on the Sample Answer and Grammar Practice:

1. “Eating silently is not as meaningful as saying ‘Itadakimasu’ before a meal.”
2. “I may not know as many Japanese words as my friend, but I always remember to say ‘Itadakimasu’.”
3. “My appreciation for meals is the same as the gratitude expressed by ‘Itadakimasu’.”

Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 61　　Noise when eating noodles

Topic Question: Why do Japanese people make noise when eating noodles?

▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about the cultural significance and reasoning behind why making noise while eating noodles is considered acceptable or even polite in Japan.

▮ Sample Answer

“In Japan, making noise when eating noodles, such as slurping, is considered polite because it shows appreciation for the food and signifies that you are enjoying your meal. It also helps to cool down the hot noodles before they enter your mouth.”

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

1. Slurping (すする音): The noise made by sucking something liquid or semi-liquid up into the mouth loudly.
2. Appreciation (感謝): Recognition and enjoyment of the good qualities of someone or something.
3. Signifies (意味する): Be an indication of.
4. Enjoying (楽しむ): Take delight or pleasure in an activity or occasion.
5. Cool down (冷ます): To make something less hot.

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

1. What does making noise while eating noodles signify in Japan?
2. How is slurping viewed in terms of politeness?
3. Why is slurping practical when eating hot noodles?

▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar:

older than… more expensive than…

We use than after comparatives (older than … / more expensive than …, etc.).
●　Athens is older than Rome.
●　Are oranges more expensive than bananas?
●　It’s easier to take a taxi than to take the bus.
● “ How are you today?” “Not bad. Better than yesterday.”

We usually say: than me / than him / than her / than us / than them.
You can say:
● I can run faster than him. or I can run faster than he can.
● You are a better singer than me. or You are a better singer than I am.

More / less than…
●　A: How much did your shoes cost? Fifty dollars?
　 B: No, more than that. (= more than $50)
●　The movie was very short – less than an hour.
●　They’ve got more money than they need.

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

1. “Slurping noodles is more appreciated in Japan than eating quietly.”
2. “The sound of slurping is older than many modern table manners.”
3. “People enjoy their noodles more when they slurp them than when they try to eat quietly.”

Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 60 　　Lost wallets return

Topic Question: Why do lost wallets return to their owners in Japan?

▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Consider the cultural and societal factors in Japan that contribute to lost wallets often being returned to their rightful owners.

▮ Sample Answer

“In Japan, lost wallets often return to their owners because of the country’s strong culture of honesty and respect for others’ belongings. Additionally, the efficient police reporting system and community spirit play a significant role in ensuring lost items find their way back.”

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

1. Honesty (正直): The quality of being honest; truthfulness.
2. Respect (尊敬): Admiration felt or shown for someone or something that you believe has good ideas or qualities.
3. Belongings (所持品): Things that you own.
4. Efficient (効率的な): Achieving maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort or expense.
5. Community spirit (地域社会の精神): A feeling of involvement in and concern for one’s local community.

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

1. What cultural trait helps in returning lost wallets in Japan?
2. How does the police reporting system contribute to returning lost items?
3. Why is community spirit important in this process?

▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar

(a) little (a) few

(a) little + uncountable noun:
(a) little water
(a) little time
(a) little money
(a) little soup

(a) few + plural noun:
(a) few books
(a) few questions
(a) few people
(a) few days

a little = some but not much
● She didn’t eat anything, but she drank a little water.
● I speak a little Spanish.　(= some Spanish but not much)

a few = some but not many

● Excuse me, I have to make a few phone calls.
● We’re going away for a few days.
●　I speak a few words of Spanish.

little (without a) = almost no or almost nothing
● There was little food in the fridge. It　was almost empty.

few (without a) = almost no
● There were few people in the theater.
　　It was almost empty.

little and a little
A little is a positive idea:
● They have a little money, so they’re not poor. (= they have some money)

Little (or very little) is a negative idea:
● They have (very) little money. They are very poor. (= almost no money)

few and a few
A few is a positive idea:
● I have a few friends, so I’m not lonely. (= I have some friends)

Few (or very few) is a negative idea:
● I’m sad and I’m lonely. I have (very) few friends. (= almost no friends)

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

1. In Japan, there is a little more hope of getting your lost belongings back.
2. Only a few people would keep a wallet they found, thanks to the strong sense of community.
3. There’s very little chance of not finding the owner of a lost wallet in Japan, due to efficient systems and honest citizens.

Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 59　　 Pedestrians

Topic Question: Why do Japanese pedestrians obey traffic lights even if there are no cars around?

▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about the cultural and societal reasons behind why Japanese pedestrians strictly follow traffic light rules, even when no immediate danger is apparent.

▮ Sample Answer

“In Japan, pedestrians tend to obey traffic lights meticulously due to a strong sense of social responsibility and order. It reflects the cultural emphasis on respect for rules and consideration for others, ensuring safety and harmony in public spaces.”

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

1. Pedestrians (歩行者): People who are walking, especially in an area where vehicles go.
2. Meticulously (細心の): In a way that shows great attention to detail; very thoroughly.
3. Responsibility (責任): The state or fact of having a duty to deal with something.
4. Consideration (配慮): Careful thought, typically over a period of time.
5. Harmony (調和): The quality of forming a pleasing and consistent whole.

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

1. What are pedestrians in Japan known for?
2. Why do they follow traffic lights so closely?
3. How does this behavior reflect on Japanese culture?

▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar: some and any

some and any

Use some in positive sentences:
● I’m going to buy some clothes.
● There’s some ice in the fridge
● We made some mistakes.

Use any in negative sentences:
● I’m not going to buy any clothes.
● There isn’t any milk in the fridge.
● We didn’t make any mistakes.

any and some in questions
In most questions (but not all ) we use any (not some):
● Is there any ice in the fridge ?
● Does he have any friends ?
● Do you need any help?

We normally use some (not any) when we offer things
(Would you like… ?) :
● 　A: Would you like some coffee?
　　B: Yes, please.
　　
　　or when we ask for things (Can I have..? etc.)

● A: Can I have some soup, please?
　 B: Yes. Help yourself.

some and any without a noun

●　I didn’t take any pictures, but Jane took some. (= some pictures)
●　You can have some coffee, but I don’t want any. (= any coffee)
●　I just made some coffee. Would you like some? (= some coffee)

Example Sentences Based on the Sample Answer and Grammar Practice:

1. Let’s learn some Japanese phrases to understand pedestrian signs better.
2. Don’t cross the street when the light is red, even if you don’t see any cars.
3. Can I ask you some questions about your experiences with traffic in Japan?

Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 58 　　Pocket tissues

Topic Question: Why are pocket tissues given out for free in Japan?

▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about why you often see free pocket tissues being distributed in Japan. What purposes do they serve?

▮ Sample Answer

“In Japan, pocket tissues are often given out for free on the street as a form of advertising. Companies include their ads or coupons inside the tissue packages. It’s a marketing strategy that benefits both the company and the receiver.”

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

1. Advertise (広告する): To promote a product, service, or event to the public.
2. Marketing (マーケティング): The action or business of promoting and selling products or services.
3. Strategy (戦略): A plan of action designed to achieve a long-term or overall aim.
4. Benefit (利益): An advantage or profit gained from something.
5. Receiver (受取人): A person who receives something.

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

1. Why are pocket tissues given out for free in Japan?
2. What is included inside the tissue packages?
3. How does this strategy benefit the company?

▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar
a/an and the

a/an

● I have a car.
(there are many cars and I have one)
●　Can I ask a question?
(there are many questions – canI ask one?)
●　Is there a hotel near here?
(there are many hotels – is t here one near here?)
●Paris is an interesting city.
(there are many interesting cities and Paris is one)
●Lisa is a student.
(there are many students and Lisa is one)

the

●　I’m going to wash the car tomorrow.
　　(= my car)
●　Can you repeat the question, please?
　　(= the question that you asked)
●　We enjoyed our vacation. The hotel was　very nice.
　　(= our hotel)
●　Paris is the capital of France.
　　(there is only one capital of France)
●　Lisa is the youngest student in her class.
　　(there is only one youngest student

We say the .. . when it is clear which thing or person we mean. For example:

●　”Where’s Tom?” “In the kitchen.”
　　(= the kitchen of this house or apartment)
●　Turn off the light and close the door.
　　(= the light and the door of the room)
●　Do you live far from the airport?
　　(= the airport of your town)
●　I’d like to speak to the manager, please.
　　(= the manager of this store, etc.)

Example Sentences Based on the Grammar Practice and Sample Answer:

1. Can I have a tissue? (There are many tissues – can I have one?)
2. The tissues were given out for free. (Specific tissues that were being discussed.)
3. The marketing strategy of giving out tissues is effective. (A specific strategy being discussed.)

Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:

IELTS スピーキング　バンドスコア 7+対策法　Topic Word (テーマ別単語) 18 

「 HEALTH 」

IELTS スピーキングの採点基準「 Lexical　Resource (Vocabulary）  語彙の豊富さ」で

高い評価を得るために、Topic Word (テーマ別単語) の習得が必須です。

試験官は、質問のトピック（テーマ）にどれほど、受験者がTopic Word を

使って回答しているかをチェックしています。

  例えば、環境問題について話をするとき、climate change, pollution levels などの単語が

すらすら出てくることを期待しています。

Topic Word  　　テーマ別単語  「 HEALTH 」 

以下、5つの単語は「 HEALTH 」に関連したTOPIC WORDです。

単語の定義を覚えましょう

試験で使える！Topic Word  　「 HEALTH 」 

NUTRIENTS    栄養物,

┃　定義

┃　例文

┃　Collocation 連語

DIET 　　食事制限、(治療・体重調節などのための)規定食

┃定義

┃　例文

┃　 Collocation 連語

APPETITE　   食欲、欲望、欲求

┃定義

┃　例文

┃　 Collocation 連語

その他「HEALTH 」に関連したTOPIC WORD 5 Words

1. Mental Health (精神健康)

Taking care of your mental health is as important as physical health.
精神健康のケアは、身体の健康と同じくらい重要です。

2. Hydration (水分補給)

Staying hydrated is essential, especially during hot summer days.
特に暑い夏の日には、水分補給をすることが欠かせません。”

3. Sleep (睡眠)

Getting enough sleep is vital for your body to recover and function properly.
十分な睡眠を取ることは、体が回復し正常に機能するために重要です。

4. Stress Management (ストレス管理)

Effective stress management can improve your overall well-being.
効果的なストレス管理は、あなたの全体的な幸福を向上させることができます。

5. Preventive Care (予防ケア)

Regular check-ups and preventive care are key to early detection of health issues.
定期的な健康診断と予防ケアは、健康問題の早期発見に欠かせない要素です。”

「Topic Word」をインストラクターと一緒にレッスン！

アメリカ人が毎日使うスラング・イディオムを学ぶ！

海外ドラマ､日常生活で使われるリアルな英語が楽しく自然に身につく！

ネイティブのリアル英語  run a fever  熱がある

「 ずっと熱が続く」って英語ではどう言うんでしょうか？

アメリカでは　　”run a fever” といいます。

He ran a fever and was absent from school. 

彼は熱を出して学校を休んだ。

風邪などの原因で「熱が出る」状態となった場合「run a fever」と言います。

体温計で計る等の結果として、「熱がある」場合は「have a fever」になります。

また、この場合、「have」は一時的、「run」は継続的な意味を持ちます。

●　例文

夫　: How’s the baby?

妻　: The baby is running a high fever. Let’s call the doctor.

夫「赤ちゃんどうしたんだろう？」

妻「赤ちゃんが高い熱が出ているのよ。お医者さんに電話しましょう」

「run a fever  熱がある」習得・攻略

ネイティブのリアル 英語：

If you start to run a fever, you should go see your doctor right away.

学校で教わる英語：

 If you start to get a high body temperature, you should go see your doctor right away.

ネイティブのリアル発音:

 If ya start ta run a fever, you should go see yer doctor ride away.

run を使ったその他のイディオム

●　Run out of steam（息切れする、体力や意欲が尽きる）

Halfway through the marathon, I ran out of steam and had to slow down.
マラソンの途中で息切れして、スピードを落とさざるを得なくなった。

●　Run into the ground（徹底的に使い果たす、疲れ果てるまで働かせる）

He’s running his car into the ground by never taking it in for service.
彼は車をサービスに出さないで乗り続けることで、車を完全に使い果たしている。

●Run the gauntlet（厳しい試練や批判に直面する）

Presenting my idea in the meeting felt like running the gauntlet with all the criticism I faced.
会議で私のアイデアを発表するのは、受けた批判を考えると、厳しい試練を乗り越えるようだった。

●　Run rings around（はるかに優れている、圧倒する）

In terms of coding skills, she can run rings around anyone else in the office.
コーディングスキルに関して言えば、彼女はオフィスの他の誰よりもはるかに優れている。

●　Run something by someone（誰かに何かを確認する、相談する）

Can I run my plans by you before the meeting tomorrow?
明日の会議前に、私の計画をあなたに確認してもらえますか？

同義表現

to have a high body temperature, to be feverish.

Lesson 57　　High-tech　toilets

Topic Question: Why are Japanese toilets so high-tech?

▮ Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about the features that make Japanese toilets stand out and how these reflect broader aspects of Japanese culture and technology.

▮ Sample Answer

“Japanese toilets are high-tech due to Japan’s culture of cleanliness, technological innovation, and the desire for comfort and convenience. Features like bidets, seat warmers, and air dryers exemplify the integration of advanced technology into daily life. The emphasis on hygiene and the user’s comfort in Japanese culture has driven the development of toilets that offer a multitude of functions beyond the basic necessities, showcasing Japan’s leading role in technological advancement in household products.”

▮ Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer

1. Bidets: A bathroom fixture used to wash and clean the body after using the toilet.
2. Innovation: The introduction of something new, a new idea, method, or device.
3. Hygiene: Conditions or practices conducive to maintaining health and preventing disease, especially through cleanliness.
4. Convenience: The state of being able to proceed with something with little effort or difficulty.
5. Integration: The process of combining one thing with another so that they become a whole.

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

1. How does Japan’s culture of cleanliness influence their toilets?
2. What are some of the high-tech features found in Japanese toilets?
3. Why is technological innovation important in the development of Japanese toilets?

▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar:

a bottle / some water
(countable/uncountable 1)

A noun can be countable or uncountable

Countable nouns
For example: (a) car (a) man (a) bottle (a) house (a) key (an) idea (an) accident

You can’t use the singular (car/bottle/key, etc.) alone.You need a/an:
●　We can’t get into the house without a key. (not without key)

Uncountable nouns

For example: water air rice salt plastic money music tennis

You can’t use a/an + uncountable nouns: Xmoney Xmusic Xwater
But you can say a piece of… I a bottle of…, etc. + uncountable noun.:

a bottle of water / a carton of milk / a piece of cheese /a bottle of perfume
a bowl of rice /a cup of coffee/ a bar of soap / a piece of music /a game of tennis

Example Sentences Based on the Grammar Practice and Sample Answer:

1. Japanese toilets often include a seat warmer, which is an example of a countable noun, meaning you can have one seat warmer or multiple seat warmers.
2. For hygiene purposes, the use of water, an uncountable noun, is optimized in Japanese toilets through features like bidets.
3. Many people appreciate the convenience of having a toilet with multiple functions, showcasing the integration of technology into an everyday object.

Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself: