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
- Carp (鯉): A type of fish, often used symbolically in Japan.
- Kites (凧): Lightweight frames covered with paper or cloth, designed to be flown in the wind at the end of a long string.
- Samurai (侍): Members of the premodern Japanese warrior class.
- Strength (強さ): The quality or state of being strong, in terms of physical power or resistance.
- 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
- What are koinobori and why are they important for Children’s Day?
- What does the display of samurai dolls signify?
- 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:
- Who flies the carp-shaped kites during Children’s Day? (Children and families do.)
- What did you see displayed in homes on Children’s Day? (I saw samurai dolls and koinobori.)
- Who enjoys eating kashiwa-mochi on this special day? (Children and their families enjoy it.)
Make Sentences Based on the Above Example Sentences Yourself:
