英語4技能対策

Lesson 8   Japanese book or author


Lesson 8   Japanese book or author


Topic Question: Can you suggest a Japanese book or author I should read? What is the story about?


Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about your favorite Japanese books or authors and the stories they have written. Consider why someone might find these stories interesting or important.


Sample Answer
“I recommend ‘Kokoro’ by Natsume Soseki. It’s a deep story about friendship, loneliness, and the generation gap in Japan. It shows complex emotions and Japanese culture.”


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


  1. Recommend (お勧めする): To suggest that someone or something would be good or suitable for a particular purpose or job.
  2. Friendship (友情): The emotions or conduct of friends; the state of being friends.
  3. Loneliness (孤独): Sadness because one has no friends or company.
  4. Generation gap (世代間の隔たり): Differences of outlook or opinion between people of different generations.
  5. Complex (複雑な): Consisting of many different and connected parts.


Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What book does the student recommend?
  2. What themes does “Kokoro” explore?
  3. Can you name some emotions or concepts that are important in “Kokoro”?


Mastering Middle School English Grammar

Do you… ? (simple present questions)

I am doing (present continuous) and

I do (simple present)


A:  Jack is watching television.

He is not playing the guitar.

Is he playing the guitar?    No, he isn’t.

Does he play the guitar?    Yes, he does.


B: Present continuous (I am doing) = now, at the time of speaking:

Tom is taking a shower at the moment. (not Tom takes)


C:  Simple present (I do) = in general, all the time, or sometimes:

I work every day from 9:00 to 5:30.

Tom takes a shower every morning.

It rains a lot in the winter.

I don’t watch television very often.

What do you usually do on weekends?


D:  We do not use these verbs in the present continuous (I am -ing):

like prefer love hate want need know mean understand believe remember forget .

Use only the simple present with these verbs (I want/ do you like?, etc.):



Example Sentences:

A: Do you read Japanese books?

B: Does she understand the story’s themes?

C: Do we always find the generation gap in stories?


Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 7  Fashion trends


Lesson 7   Fashion trends


Topic Question: “Are there any Japanese fashion trends or styles you find interesting?”


Try Answering the Question Yourself
Reflect on Japanese fashion trends or styles that capture your interest. Consider what makes these trends appealing or unique to you.


Sample Answer

“Yes, I find Harajuku style very interesting. It’s colorful and creative, combining traditional and modern elements. People wear unique outfits, mixing patterns and accessories. It doesn’t follow the usual fashion rules, which makes it stand out. Harajuku represents freedom in fashion, allowing everyone to express their personality.”


Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer

Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly


  1. Colorful (カラフルな): Having bright colors or a lot of different colors.
  2. Creative (創造的な): Relating to or involving the use of the imagination or original ideas.
  3. Traditional (伝統的な): Existing in or as part of a tradition; long-established.
  4. Modern (現代的な): Relating to the present or recent times.
  5. Accessories (アクセサリー): Items added to something else to make it more useful, versatile, or attractive.
  6. Express (表現する): To show, manifest, or reveal.


Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What is Harajuku style like?
  2. How does Harajuku style differ from usual fashion trends?
  3. What does Harajuku style represent in terms of fashion expression?


Mastering Middle School English Grammar

I don’t… (simple present negative)


A: The simple present negative is don’t/doesn’t + verb:

“I don’t follow mainstream fashion trends.”
“She doesn’t dress like everyone else.”


B: I/we/you/they don’t… he/she/it doesn’t…

“We don’t just wear clothes; we express our individuality.”
“It doesn’t require a lot of money to be fashionable in this style.”


C: We use don’t/doesn’t + base form (don’t like / doesn’t speak / doesn’t do, etc.):

“I don’t mix patterns often, but Harajuku style encourages it.”
“He doesn’t usually wear bright colors, but he enjoys Harajuku fashion.”


Example Sentences:


“I don’t limit myself to one fashion style.”
“She doesn’t shy away from bold accessories.”
“They don’t ignore traditional elements in their outfits.”


Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 6   Japanese Festivals


Lesson 6   Japanese Festivals


Topic Question: “What is your favorite Japanese festival, and what happens during the festival?”


Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about a Japanese festival that you particularly enjoy. Describe what makes this festival your favorite and detail the activities and events that occur during it.


Sample Answer

“My favorite Japanese festival is the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto. It happens in July. Beautiful floats are paraded through the streets. People wear traditional yukatas and enjoy street food. There are music and dance performances. It’s fun because it brings everyone together and celebrates Japanese culture and history.”


Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer

Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly


  1. Floats (山車): Platforms with wheels, used in parades, displaying elaborate decorations.
  2. Traditional (伝統的な): Relating to or based on old customs and ideas.
  3. Yukatas (浴衣): A casual summer kimono usually made of cotton.
  4. Street food (ストリートフード): Ready-to-eat food sold by a vendor in a street or other public place.
  5. Celebrates (祝う): To acknowledge a significant or happy day or event with festivities.


Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What is the Gion Matsuri, and when does it happen?
  2. What are some activities that take place during the Gion Matsuri?
  3. Why do you think the Gion Matsuri is fun?


Mastering Middle School English Grammar

I do/work/like, etc. (simple present)


A: They read / he likes / I work, etc. = the simple present:

“The festival attracts thousands of visitors.”
“He enjoys watching the parades.”
“I look forward to it every year.”


B: We use the simple present for things that are true in general, or for things that happen sometimes or all the time:

“The Gion Matsuri showcases traditional Japanese culture.”
“Families often gather to watch the fireworks.”


C: Always / never / often / usually / sometimes + simple present

“The floats always look magnificent.”
“Street vendors usually sell delicious food.”
“People sometimes wear special outfits for the occasion.”


Example Sentences:

“Visitors always enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.”
“The parade never fails to impress the crowd.”
“Families often meet up to enjoy the festivities together.”


Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 5   Video Games


Lesson 5   Video Games


Topic Question: “What Japanese video game do you enjoy playing, and what makes it fun?”


Try Answering the Question Yourself
Consider a Japanese video game that you find enjoyable. Think about the elements of the game that make it entertaining for you.


Sample Answer

“I enjoy playing ‘The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.’ It’s fun because of the open world you can explore. There are so many puzzles and challenges. The graphics are beautiful, and the story is engaging. It feels like a real adventure.”


Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer

Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly


  1. Open world (オープンワールド): A type of video game design where a player can freely explore the world.
  2. Puzzles (パズル): Games, problems, or toys that test a person’s ingenuity or knowledge.
  3. Challenges (挑戦): Tasks or situations that test someone’s abilities.
  4. Graphics (グラフィックス): Visual components of a game.
  5. Engaging (魅力的な): Attractive or pleasing in a way that holds attention.


Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What is the title of the game you enjoy?
  2. Why do you find ‘Breath of the Wild’ fun to play?
  3. What aspects of the game make it feel like a real adventure?


Mastering Middle School English Grammar

are you doing? (present continuous questions)


A: Positive / Question

Positive: “You are playing a Japanese video game.”
Question: “Are you playing a Japanese video game?”


B: is/are + subject + -ing

“Is she exploring the open world?”
“Are they solving puzzles in the game?”


C: Short answers

Yes, I am. / No, I’m not.
Yes, she is. / No, she isn’t.
Yes, they are. / No, they aren’t.


Example Sentences:

Question: “Are you enjoying the game?”
Short answer: “Yes, I am.”
Question: “Is your friend watching you play?”
Short answer: “No, he isn’t.”
Question: “Are they completing a challenge right now?”
Short answer: “Yes, they are.”


Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 4   J-Pop artist or band


Lesson 4   J-Pop artist or band


Topic Question: “Who is your favorite J-Pop artist or band, and what song do you recommend?”


Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about your favorite J-Pop artist or band. What makes them stand out? Consider a song of theirs that you would recommend and why.


Sample Answer

“My favorite J-Pop artist is Hikaru Utada. I recommend the song ‘First Love.’ It is very emotional and has beautiful lyrics. Utada’s voice is amazing. This song shows the power of first love and its impact on us.”


Words to Learn and Their Meanings about Sample Answer

Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly


  1. Emotional (感情的な): Relating to one’s emotions.
  2. Lyrics (歌詞): The words of a song.
  3. Amazing (素晴らしい): Causing great surprise or wonder.
  4. Power (力): The ability to do something or act in a particular way.
  5. Impact (影響): The action of one object coming forcibly into contact with another.


Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. Why do you like Hikaru Utada?
  2. What is special about the song ‘First Love’?
  3. How does Utada’s voice contribute to the song?


Mastering Middle School English Grammar

I am doing (present continuous)


A: am/is/are + doing/eating/running/writing, etc.

“I am listening to J-Pop music.”
“She is singing a song.”
“They are performing on stage.”


B: Am/is/are + -ing = something is happening now.

Is happening: “The concert is happening right now.”
Am listening: “I am listening to ‘First Love’ by Hikaru Utada.”
Are performing: “They are performing at the music festival.”


Example Sentences:

“I am watching a music video.”
“He is playing the guitar.”
“We are enjoying the concert.”


Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 1   Anime


Lesson 1   Anime


Topic Question: How has anime influenced global pop culture, and what are some must-watch series?


Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about your experiences with anime and its impact on global culture. Consider how anime has become popular in your country and abroad.


Sample Answer

“Anime has changed global pop culture. It brings new stories and art styles. Series like ‘Naruto’, ‘Dragon Ball’, and ‘Sailor Moon’ are famous worldwide. They inspire many fans.”


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


  1. Global (グローバル): Worldwide, all over the world.
  2. Pop culture (ポップカルチャー): Modern popular culture transmitted via mass media.
  3. Brings (もたらす): Causes something to happen or to be available.
  4. Famous (有名な): Well-known.
  5. Inspire (刺激する): To motivate or encourage someone.


Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. How has anime changed global pop culture?
  2. Can you name some anime series that are famous worldwide?


Mastering Middle School English Grammar

  • The 5 Sentence Patterns: SV, SVC, SVO


SV (Subject-Verb): “Anime influences.”
SVC (Subject-Verb-Complement): “Anime is popular.”
SVO (Subject-Verb-Object): “Anime inspires fans.”


Example Sentences:

SV: “Sailor Moon shines.”
SVC: “This series is inspiring.”
SVO: “Fans love Naruto.”


Make Sentences based on above Example Sentence Yourself

Lesson 3   Kabuki or Noh


Lesson 3   Kabuki or Noh


Topic Question: “Have you ever seen a Kabuki or Noh performance? What was it like?”


Try Answering the Question Yourself
Reflect on whether you have seen a Kabuki or Noh performance. Consider the unique aspects of these traditional Japanese theater arts.


Sample Answer

“I have seen a Kabuki performance. It was very colorful and dramatic. The actors wore amazing costumes and masks. The music and dance were unique. It was a beautiful part of Japanese culture.”


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


  1. Colorful (カラフル): Full of colors.
  2. Dramatic (劇的な): Exciting and impressive.
  3. Costumes (衣装): Clothes worn by actors.
  4. Masks (仮面): Coverings for the face.
  5. Unique (ユニーク): Being the only one of its kind.
  6. Culture (文化): The ideas, customs, and social behavior of a particular people.



Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What are some characteristics of a Kabuki performance?
  2. How were the costumes and masks in the Kabuki performance?
  3. Why is Kabuki considered a beautiful part of Japanese culture?



Mastering Middle School English Grammar

am / is / are (questions)


A: Positive / Question

Positive: “The performance is dramatic.”
Question: “Is the performance dramatic?”


B: Where…? / What…? / Who…? / How…? / Why…?

Where is the Kabuki theater?
What makes the performance unique?
Who performs in Kabuki?
How do actors express emotions?
Why do people watch Kabuki?


Example Sentences:

Where: “Where are traditional performances held?”
What: “What is the main theme of the performance?”
Who: “Who are the main characters in Kabuki?”
How: “How do actors train for Kabuki?”
Why: “Why is Kabuki important to Japanese culture?”


Make Sentences based on the above Example Sentences Yourself:

Lesson 2   Japanese Cinema


Lesson 2   Japanese Cinema


Topic Question: Can you recommend a Japanese movie you think I should watch?

What is it about?


Try Answering the Question Yourself
Think about Japanese movies that left an impact on you or that you believe would be interesting for someone unfamiliar with Japanese cinema. Consider what makes these movies unique.



▮ Sample Answer

“‘Spirited Away’ is a great Japanese movie. It’s about a girl’s adventure in a magical world. This movie shows beautiful scenes and teaches important lessons. It’s loved globally.”



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


  1. Adventure (冒険): An unusual and exciting experience.
  2. Magical (魔法のような): Relating to, or resembling magic.
  3. Beautiful (美しい): Pleasing the senses or mind aesthetically.
  4. Lessons (教訓): Something learned through experience.
  5. Globally (世界的に): Around the world.


Answer the Instructor’s Questions Based on the Sample Answer

  1. What is ‘Spirited Away’ about?
  2. Why is ‘Spirited Away’ loved globally?


▮ Mastering Middle School English Grammar

The 5 Sentence Patterns: SVOO, SVOC

SVOO (Subject-Verb-Object-Object): “I recommend you ‘Spirited Away’.”

SVOC (Subject-Verb-Object-Complement): “It makes the world magical.”


Example Sentences:

SVOO: “The movie gives viewers a unique experience.”

SVOC: “People call this film a masterpiece.”


Make Sentences based on above Example Sentences Yourself

Speak Japan ( Advance)-English Site 

Japanese Site

★ ★ All instructors will be responsible for this course.

▮ Course Name:  Speak Japan ( Advance)    

▮ Level    : Intermediate to Advanced (CEFR B1 to C1, EIKEN G- 2 to G- 1, TOEIC 600 to 900)  

▮ Number of Lesson  :   60 Lessons (Take as many as you need)

▮ Features & Benefits of the Lesson:

☑ Provide high-level responses to common questions about Japan asked by foreigners.
☑ The questions cover slightly difficult themes such as Japanese culture, customs, history, and traditional events.
☑ Extensive reading aloud practice and instant English composition.                        ☑ Score improvement for speaking tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC, and EIKEN G-1 & Pre 1.                             


▮ Lesson Activities:

1 .Respond to questions about Japan (Topic Question) with your own opinions.
2. Read aloud sample answers.
3. Use key vocabulary and idioms from the sample answers to instantly create sentences in English.
4. After answering questions about the sample answers, engage in a free discussion with the instructor.


▮ Materials :  Lesson Contents

Speak Japan ( Advance) 

English Site

★ 全ての講師が担当します。

▮ レッスンコース名:  Speak Japan ( Advance)    

▮ レベル    :   中級~上級者  CEFR B1~C1 , 英検2級~1級, TOEIC 600 ~900 

▮ レッスン数  :    60 レッスン (必要な分だけ受講してください)

▮ レッスンの特徴・効果

☑ 外国人から日本についてよく聞かれる質問にハイレベルな回答をする。
☑ 質問は日本の文化、風習、歴史、伝統行事などやや難しいテーマを扱います。
☑ 豊富な音読トレーニングと瞬間英作文                          ☑ IELTS,TOEFL,TOEIC, 英検1級・準1級などスピーキングテストのスコアアップ。                              


▮ レッスン アクティビティ

1 .日本に関する質問(Topic Question)に対して、自分の考えを回答する。
2. サンプル回答を音読します 。
3. サンプル回答から重要語彙・イディオムを使って瞬間英作文。
4. サンプル回答についての質問に答えた後、講師とフリーディスカッション。


▮ 教材 :  Lesson Contents