Lesson 17 　　Public Transportation

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: