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October 18 Topic - Ghosts and Censorship
- 投稿者：Grandy (2019-10-10 (木) 11:35:39)
Hello everybody! On this week's discussion topic we will discuss two separate ideas. The first one is about ghosts, people's personal stories, and what science has to say about it. The second on is about China's censorship on a popular American TV show, Southpark. Join us this week as we discuss both topics and share our ideas with one another!
LINKS (Censorship)
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/amp/news/south-park-banned-chinese-internet-critical-episode-1245783
Discussion Questions (Censorship)
1. Do you believe China's censorship is justifiable?
2. Is censorship good or necessary?
3. What are some examples of censorship in Japan?
LINKS (Ghost)
https://www.buzzfeed.com/spenceralthouse/real-and-scary-ghost-stories
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyQT78Bjt04
Discussion Questions (Ghost)
1. Do you believe in ghosts? (OR) Do you believe science has an answer?
2. Have you ever encountered ghosts before?
3. If someone told you they could make you see ghosts, would you accept?
October 4th Topic - Death Rituals
- 投稿者：Grandy (2019-10-03 (木) 14:15:18)
Links to this week's topic:
https://io9.gizmodo.com/10-bizarre-death-rituals-from-around-the-world-5960343
Hello everyone! Guess what? It's the month of October! You know what that means? It means ghosts and goblins, spooks and kooks, and fairytales all alike will be the topic of the month!
But, not only that. This month we will also be trying something brand new. So joins us this month for a month full of interesting discussions!
This week's 1st topic is on death rituals. Do you think people are treated the same when they die? How about all over the world? Are animals and people treated the same when they die? Is there a "right" way to treat the dead? We will discuss these questions and more on this week's topic! Let's go!
Discussion question:
1. When you die, how do you want your body to be treated?
2. If you can choose from any of the death rituals from the article, which one would you choose and why?
3. Do you believe in an afterlife or reincarnation?
Cancel Culture
- 投稿者：Grandy (2019-09-25 (水) 12:00:19)
Links to this week's topic:
https://medium.com/@vcasaisvila/the-untold-truth-about-cancel-culture-3675cac983c3
https://edition.cnn.com/2019/09/21/entertainment/cancel-culture-explainer-trnd/index.html
Discussion Questions:
Hello everyone. Have you ever liked a song or an actor or actress, artist, anyone famous? Have they ever done anything "bad" and you never hear about them anymore? That's (kind of) cancel culture. Let's discussion it's meaning, it's origins and what you think about it!
1. Where did "modern" cancel culture start?
2. Are you for or against cancel culture?
3. Do you want to "cancel" cancel culture?
4. Have you ever liked anyone who has been affected by cancel culture?
5. Do you think cancel culture will grow or change in anyway towards the future, how so?
6. Should the artist and his/her work be treated equally or can be seen as separate?
Minorities in Japan
- 投稿者：Grandy (2019-09-17 (火) 15:32:35)
Links to this week's topic:
YouTube Video - Life as a Black/Japanese HS Girl in Japan
(Haffu perspective)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hXTPHrcs9Y
YouTube Video - Do you Envy Half-Japanese People?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGlAYh39u0s
Hello everybody!
Have you ever wondered what life as a "Hāfu" in Japan is like? Would you yourself like to be a "Hāfu" if by some divine power, you could make that change?
This week we're going to watch and discuss two videos surrounding this topic. Before watching the videos, I want you to ask yourself and answer these questions. Then, after watching the videos, answer the questions again and see if any of them changed or if it's the same. Let's go!
Discussion Questions:
1. Do you think life for a half-Japanese person living in Japan is hard?
2. Will there be more half-Japanese people in the future?
3. Are all half-Japanese treated equally?
4. If you were half-Japanese, but looked 100% Japanese, would you hide the fact that you are half?
5. Do you sometimes wish you were Half-Japanese?
5a. If you answered yes, what other ethnicity would you want to be?
6. Are some things easier for half-Japanese people?
7. Did you go to school with someone who was Half-Japanese and did you befriend them?
8. What are some ways to connect with people from other cultures?
Personality
- 投稿者：Grandy (2019-09-09 (月) 14:42:47)
Personality
Links to this week's tests:
Emotional Intelligence Test:
https://www.verywellmind.com/how-emotionally-intelligent-are-you-2796099?quizResult=c389fd85
Big Five Test:
https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/personality-quiz/#result-charts
16 Personalities Test:
https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test
Hello people! Have you ever thought to yourself, "I want to know more about myself, but how?" Oh, or have you ever asked yourself, "I wonder what kind of roles I'm best at." Ah, or has this thought ever crossed your mind, "Am I more introverted or am I more extraverted?"
Well this week, we're going to answer those questions and more!
This week's topic is personality! We will be taking three separate tests to assess our personalities and compare them with each other. After taking the tests and recording the results (PLEASE REMEMBER YOUR RESULTS! Print it, Take a picture of it, anything), we answer the following questions together.
Discussion questions:
1. Which, of the three tests, was your favorite and why?
2. Do you believe these tests accurately represent your personality?
3. Did the results of any of the test surprise you in any way?
4. Is there anything you would like to change about yourself based off the results you received?
5. Has your personality changed a lot since you were a child? In what ways?
6. What personality trait do you believe is the most valuable to you?
7. Do you believe that people can change their personalities easily, if so, what qualities do you believe are easier than others to change?
8. What do you think the purpose of these tests are?
9. Do you see any problems with these tests?
10. What do you think are the best ways to enrich and develop the personalities you want to improve?
September 6th Topic - Japan-Korea Relations
- 投稿者：Tim (2019-09-05 (木) 19:15:14)
Japan-Korea Relations
This week’s topic is about the recent events that have occurred in Japan and Korea. This topic can be fairly broad, so I would like to narrow it down to these recent events, and any events in the past that may have attributed to this current dispute.
As you may know, tensions have been rising as Japan and South Korea have placed limitations on certain items traded and changed trade status designations.
http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/nation/2019/07/120_271607.html
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/aug/23/south-korea-cuts-intelligence-ties-with-japan-raising-fears-over-north-korea
These events seem to have stemmed from South Korean Supreme Court rulings that occurred in October and November. https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/29/world/asia/south-korea-wartime-compensation-japan.html
For more background information, you can also read up on the agreement between Japan and South Korea that was signed in 1965 on the reparations for forced labor and the usage of comfort women during Japanese occupation of Korea.
Discussion Questions:
1. Do you agree with the Korean Supreme Court rulings from last year? Why or why not?
2. The international community believes that Japan’s change of South Korea’s trade status is in retaliation to the aforementioned Supreme Court rulings. Do you agree? If not, why do you think Japan did this?
3. South Korea seemed to also retaliate against Japan in its recent actions. Do you agree with their actions? Why or why not?
4. Do you think that these worsening relations can be fixed?
5. What do you think can be done in order for Japan and South Korea to fix their relationship?
6. Do these trade restrictions and worsened relations affect you in any way? What kind of effects can this kind of dispute have on you and your community?
August 30th Topic - Conspiracies
- 投稿者：Grandy (2019-08-27 (火) 18:49:57)
Conspiracies
Link to this week's articles:
1) Major news source - Epstein's Suicide
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/investigations/jeffrey-epstein-was-taken-suicide-watch-high-level-psychologist-n1046071
2) The 4chan post - Conspiracy
https://www.businessinsider.com/jeffery-epstein-death-by-apparent-suicide-4chan-post-investigated-2019-8
2) Don't believe what they say - Conspiracy
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/9757129/jeffrey-epstein-did-not-commit-suicide-murdered-lawyer-suggests/
Have you ever browsed the internet, read something interesting from a major news source, thought to yourself, "Hmm... that was interesting". Then, you read another article that doesn't match the major news source and this new article makes you feel like you found a secret!!! That's a conspiracy!
This week's topic is all about the secrets of CONSPIRACY! Specifically, the Jeffrey Epstein conspiracy surrounding his death. Was it a suicide like many major news articles say, or did someone else kill him? Let's talk about it!
Discussion Questions:
1. If you can describe Jeffrey Epstein in three words, what words would they be?
2. Do you think Jeffrey Epstein's death was a murder or a suicide?
3. How do you think Epstein was able to acquire so much of his money?
4. Many celebrities and high-profile elitists do not go to jail for their crimes. What do you think is the line for celebrities going to jail or not?
5. Was the status of the guards on the day of Epstein's death planned or coincidence?
6. Was there a conspiracy that you did not believe could be true, but it turned out to be true?
7. What conspiracies do you think are true?
8. What is the craziest conspiracy you ever heard of?
9. Do you read your news articles only from reliable sources or in any form?
10. Do you think it's better to follow the media or to question the media?
August 23rd Topic -Texting LINGO
- 投稿者：Grandy (2019-08-18 (日) 18:02:30)
Hello everyone,
Grandy here with this week's topic: Texting LINGO!
Link to this week's article: https://www.webopedia.com/quick_ref/textmessageabbreviations.asp
Have you ever texted anyone and they put letters together that do not make a word? For example: brb or gtg?
Do you get confused by these messages and wonder what do they mean? Well c'mon down to this week's discussion and we'll talk about it!
Discussion questions:
1. What are some texting lingos that you know (before looking at the list)
1a. What are some Japanese texting lingos you k2019-08-19 (月) 21:54:30
2. Do you prefer to send messages with texting lingos or with full words?
3. Which texting lingos do you use the most? (if you use them)
4. Do you think texting lingos is the same as being lazy?
5. In what situations are texting lingos appropriate?
5a. When are they not appropriate?
6. Do you think there will be more texting lingos in the future or is there already enough?
7. If you can create a new texting lingo, what would it be?
8. Do you think texting lingos are useful or do they cause more confusion?
9. Where do you think texting lingo originated from and why?
10. Would you like to be fluent in texting lingo?
If you have any questions or concerns please email me at grandy444@csu.fullerton.edu
Topic for August 16th - Climate Change
- 投稿者：Tim (2019-08-15 (木) 12:55:40)
Climate Change
This week’s topic is about climate change. With a large number of typhoons and other natural disasters that Japan has been experiencing, it feels like the earth’s climate is changing drastically. However, there are people around the world who don’t believe that these changes have been made by humans, or that these changes even exist.
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2019/may/07/us-hotbed-climate-change-denial-international-poll
Discussion questions
1. Do you think that climate change is occurring? If so, are these changes caused by humans?
2. Why do you think that many people across the world don’t believe that climate change is happening?
3. Have you noticed changes in the climate during your life12:55:40
4. How do you think that climate change will affect you in your life12:55:40 How would it affect your children and your grandchildren?
5. Do you think that climate change can be stopped?
6. Have you changed your lifestyle to combat climate change? If so, what changes have you made?
7. What kind of strategies have you noticed that other people have been utilizing to combat climate change?
8. Are there policies made by the government to combat climate change? Do you believe that these policies are enough?
The beauty of Japan's lonely vending machines
- 投稿者：Mark Anderson (2019-08-06 (火) 17:08:41)
This week's article is from CNN - "The beauty of Japan's lonely vending machines".
Questions:
1. Japan has more vending machines than the entire population of New Zealand. Do you think Japan has too many vending machines?
2. Are you interested in seeing the book 'Roadside Lights', showing lonely vending machines?
3. Why does Japan have so many vending machines?
4. Explain, with examples, the phrase "Japanese culture has an appreciation for process."
5. How do you think vending machines work "even when they're buried in snow"?
6. What do you think foreigner tourists think when they see Japan's vending machines?
7. Why is life in Japan so convenient? What are the upsides and downsides to this?
8. How often do you and your family use vending machines?
9. Are vending machines an eyesore? A waste of space?
10. What would be your dream vending machine and where would it be located?
August 2nd Topic - Kimono
- 投稿者：Grandy (2019-07-31 (水) 11:56:45)
Kimono
Link to original article https://www.cosmopolitan.com/entertainment/a28197739/kim-kardashian-kimono-trademark-backlash/
This week's topic is on Kim Kardashian's new clothing brand name: Kimono. We will explore word usage such as eponyms as well as discuss each other's opinions on the Kimono brand wear.
Discussion Questions:
1. Can you trademark a word?
2. What words do you think are fine to trademark?
3. What words do you think are not okay to trademark?
4. What eponyms do you use more commonly than common nouns?
5. What do you think would be a better name for her shapewear line?
6. If you can make your own brand/store/company name, what will it be?
7. What do you think is the difference between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation?
8. Do you think Kim Kardashian made the name controversial on purpose?
9. Do you think there is such a thing as bad publicity?
10. Do you think Kim Kardashian will lose many followers because of this?
Topic for the 26th of July - School
- 投稿者：David (2019-07-17 (水) 19:13:13)
Schools
This week’s topic is about schools. The differences between some education styles in different countries and your own experiences at school.
What positives are there about different school systems and what negatives are there? I find that the UK has a pretty similar emphasis on tests and study as Japan, although we are more relaxed overall. However, there are other places, especially certain parts of Europe, that have a very different approach.
This link explains a little about how some European countries approach their education system.
Discussion questions
1. What do you think are the most important things to teach children in school?
2. What do you think the real reason for schools are? When you leave school what skills and knowledge do you think you should have obtained?
3. Tell the group about the earliest memories you have of school?
4. Overall did you enjoy or not enjoy school? Why?
5. Do you think the school system in your own country is effective? Can it be improved, if so, how?
6. How do you think your own country's school system compares to others?
7. Which of these do you think are the most important to teach out of the following; Life skills, brain development, academic knowledge, social skills, discipline, responsibility. Why do you say this?
8. There are various types of schools, which do you think is the best for children and why? examples – Public school, private school, boarding school, home school. If you can think of any others please list them.
9. How do you feel school changes a child? Educator Robert Duke stated “Children are naturally expressive but they go to school and get it taught out of them”. What does this really mean and do you agree with it?
10. Discuss any final thoughts on the topic. e.g the differences between different types of schooling such as public-school vs home school.
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 12th of July - Farming and food issues
- 投稿者：David (2019-07-10 (水) 16:18:21)
Farming issues and food shortage
Worldwide food and farming are becoming greater problems. Many young people are unwilling to work in the farming industry. This is leading to a shortage of workers. World climate is making farming more difficult and yet the world population is increasing.
This first article talks about some of the labor shortages in Scotland. However, this is true across all of the UK right now.
There are various possibilities for farming in the future because labor and climate changes, this link discusses the possibility of automated farms.
https://futurism.com/automated-agriculture-uk
If you have time please try to learn a little about what is involved in “smart farming”. Also see if you can learn anything about “vertical farming”, “hydroponics” or “aquaponics”.
Discussion questions
1. What is your personal opinion on the current way farming and food problems are going? Is it something you take seriously? Do you not care? Is it a minor problem? Why do you think this way?
2. Do you feel farmers get paid enough? If not, how can we fix this, could we raise food prices? How about if supermarkets had to lower their profit margin? Any other ideas?
3. How do you think the labor problems could be solved?
4. If automated farming becomes the standard way of farming, what advantages and disadvantages do you think there would be?
5. How is the farming situation in your own country?
6. Do you think your country will face a food shortage or another related problem in years to come?
7. Do you know what “vertical farming”, “hydroponics” or “aquaponics” are?
8. How do you think the future of farming can cope with climate change and the increasing population?
9. Considering animals take up a lot more space and produce much less food, do you think it’s possible to continue animal farming? How or why do you think like that?
10. Discuss any final thoughts you have on the situation.
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 5th of July - Luxury and essential items
- 投稿者：David (2019-07-03 (水) 19:27:01)
Essential and luxury items
This week’s topic is about luxury and essential items. What are all the things you consider essential to own and what luxury items do you like or have. The term essential can be subjective sometimes so it will be interesting to see what people consider to be essential.
Discussion questions
1. What are the very basic essentials required to live? What else do you yourself consider essential on top of those?
2. Name one luxury item you don’t have, but really want.
3. Do modern countries focus too much on luxury items?
4. Can you name any luxury or essential items imported or exported by your country?
5. What do you think are the most popular luxury items in your country?
6. Have you every been jealous of someone because of what they own? What was it?
7. If a product has a brand name or is more expensive, does this mean it is a better quality product?
8. Being rich allows you to buy many luxury items, but does this mean you have a better life or are happier?
9. Name five things you can do to make yourself happy without spending money.
10. How often do you spend money on things you shouldn’t? What kind of things do you buy?
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 28th of June - Seven wonders of the world
- 投稿者：David (2019-06-26 (水) 19:44:17)
Seven wonders of the world
This week’s topic is about the seven wonders of the world. Both the seven wonders of the ancient world and the seven natural wonders of the world. They are both equally impressive in their own way.
Part one – Seven wonders of the ancient world
First, we will talk about the ancient wonders of the world. Unfortunately, over the years only one of these incredible creations remain. The other six have been lost to time or destruction.
This link provides some details on what the seven wonders are. Some information will also be provided in the discussion.
https://www.ancient.eu/The_Seven_Wonders/
Questions
1. What are the seven wonders of the world?
2. Which is the most impressive for you or your favorite?
3. Why do you think these creations in particular have been classified as wonders of the world?
4. Why do you think mankind allowed 6 of the 7 wonders disappear?
5. Do you think they should try to rebuild the wonders that have been lost?
6. Do you know about the newer list of the seven wonders of the world? What buildings are on this list?
7. How do you think the newer wonders of the world compare to the ancient wonders?
Part two – Seven natural wonders of the world
Next is the "Seven natural wonders of the world", these are all mother earths own creations. In my personal opinion these are evidence that nature knows what it is doing far more than we do. If you do not know what the seven natural wonders of the world are, here is a link.
https://www.victoriafalls-guide.net/7-wonders-of-the-world.html
Questions
1. What are the seven natural wonders of the world?
2. How many have you seen? Which would you like to go and see the most?
3. Do you think it’s important to protect these natural wonders and ensure that we do not ruin them?
4. For you personally do you prefer the man-made wonders, or natural wonders? Why?
5. Who or how decides what becomes a “wonder of the world”?
6. Are there any places in the world that you think should be listed as a wonder?
7. Discuss any final thoughts on the topic
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 21st of June - Children
- 投稿者：David (2019-06-19 (水) 18:48:54)
Children
This week’s topic is children. The lesson will be split into two parts, part one will be about our view of children and part two will be about the declining birth rate in Japan.
Part one – Personal view on children.
1. Do you like children or not? Why?
2. Do you have any children? How many? How old? Gran children etc.?
3. Are you good with children? Do you think you can improve?
4. Do you know the expression “children should be seen and not heard”? How do you feel about this expression?
5. Are children hard work? Explain your answer.
6. What do you think about children 2019-06-19 (水) 18:48:54 Are they spoilt, smarter, have it too easy, have it too hard etc.?
7. Discuss any final view points or opinions on children.
Part two – Declining birthrate
I’m sure you are all familiar with the declining birthrate issue in Japan and the various causes. However, please read this article. While reading, take notes of any new words you encounter.
1. How do you feel about the declining birthrate issue?
2. Name any positive or negative points.
3. Why do you think that people are having less children?
4. Do you think anyone is to blame other than everyday people?
5. What steps do you think could be taken in order to help the issue?
6. Can you think of how this situation could have been prevented?
7. Ask any more questions you have or tell the group any final thoughts.
If you have any questions please contact me via Line, or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 7th of June - Rainy season and idol worship
- 投稿者：David (2019-06-05 (水) 17:15:11)
Rainy season and Idol culture
1st Topic – Rainy Season
Rainy season is just around the corner. When the rain begins it will force us all to change our usual routine in some way. It is of course a vital time of the year for crops and nature, but it can also cause some problems.
Discussion questions
1. How do you feel about rainy season, do you like it, dislike it or don’t care?
2. What are the negative points about rainy season?
3. What are the positives about rainy season for us and for nature?
4. Does your lifestyle change during rainy season? If so, what do you do differently?
5. Name your favourite places to go during rainy season.
6. Name your favourite activities to do during rainy season.
7. If time and money were no issue, what would you do or where would you go during this time of year?
2nd Topic – Idol culture
While I’m sure you are all more than familiar with the whole idol culture, this link provides a brief outline on both the pros and cons of being an idol in Japan.
Discussion questions
1. Are you a fan now or have you ever been a fan of any kind of idol?
2. What is the interest and fascination with idols do you think?
3. Some fans become very obsessed with idols, but it is an idol’s job to stand in the spotlight and have all the attention. At what point do we draw the line? When does it become too much? And what is ok?
5. What do you think about the management and agents behind these groups?
4. Can you tell any stories of when things have gone incredibly well or wrong for an idol?
6. If you were to create an idol group what would they be like? What kind of music? How many members? Your target audience? What merchandise could you sell? How would you promote them?
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 31st of May - Australia and Scotland
- 投稿者：David (2019-05-29 (水) 16:12:16)
Australia and Scotland
This week we will talk about two very different countries. We will talk about your first impressions when you think of these countries, anything that they are famous for, the land itself and the people.
First topic – Australia
This link provides a list of some things that Australia is famous for, the list is quite long so don’t worry about reading it all. Just take a quick look and read as much or as little as you like.
https://www.hostelbookers.com/blog/destinations/50-best-australia/
Discussion questions
1. What are the first things that spring to mind when you think of Australia?
2. What is Australia famous for?
3. Do you know any Australian vocabulary?
4. What do you think about Australian wildlife?
5. What is your impression of Australian people?
6. Would you prefer to live in Australia or just visit there? Why?
7. Discuss any final thoughts about Australia.
Second topic – Scotland
This link provides some information about things to come out from Scotland. Again, there is quite a bit to read here so just read as much or as little as you want to. Of course there are many more things you could also find out though.
https://list25.com/25-amazing-and-unique-things-about-scotland.
Discussion questions
1. What are the first things that spring to mind when you think of Scotland?
2. What is Scotland famous for?
3. Do you know about Loch Ness and the Loch Ness monster?
4. Would you prefer to live in Scotland or just visit there? Why?
5. What do you know about the geography of Scotland?
6. What do you think about Scottish people?
7. Discuss any final thoughts about Scotland.
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 24th of May - TV and Social networking
- 投稿者：David (2019-05-22 (水) 19:13:53)
TV and Social networking
1st Topic - TV
Most people watch TV on a daily basis, some people think it is bad for you and some people think it`s a good thing. These days you can watch a huge range of shows from educational shows, news, factual stories or any kind of fictional show you can think of. We also have more options than ever about what we watch and when we watch it. With the internet, digital TV, Netflix and various other services.
Discussion questions
1. Do you enjoy TV?
2. What are your favourite types of show to watch, and which shows are your favourite? Why?
3. Are there any shows or programs you are currently watching or following? What do you like about them?
4. What type of TV service do you prefer to use? e.g. normal tv, internet, streaming services etc.
5. How much time do you think you spend watching TV? Would you like to watch more or less TV than you currently do?
6. List any positive or negative impacts that you think TV has had on society.
2nd Topic Social networking
Social networking has changed the way we communicate forever, it has also changed the way we can access information and see people. At the click of a button you are able to tap into someone’s life and learn so much about them.
Discussion questions
1. Are you a part of or use any kind of social networking sites? How often do you use it?
2. What do you enjoy or not enjoy about social network sites?
3. What impact do you think social networking has had on society?
4. Do you prefer to meet people face to face or online? Why? Do you think people behave differently online compared to real life?
5. Discuss any final thoughts on social networking such as, security, how its affected work, impact on personal lives and if you think it is healthy to have that much information publicly available for everyone to see.
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 17th of May - Camping and Anti vaxxer's
- 投稿者：David (2019-05-15 (水) 14:31:43)
Camping and Anti Vaxxer’s
This week I would like to try covering 2 topics and we swap topics half way through.
First up is camping.
Camping is a favourite pastime for many people and families. There are a wide range of ways to camp, from having a mini camper van like a mobile home to an incredibly wild approach carrying nothing but the bare basics. Some people even go as far as having no tent.
Discussion questions
1. Is camping something you have done? If not do you want to try?
2. Do you enjoy camping? What do you enjoy or not enjoy about it?
3. What kind of camping experience do you have? With tent and backpack? Car? Camper van? etc.
4. Where are your favourite places you have been camping? Where would you want to go camping in the future?
5. What are some important things to take when camping? Do you think there is such a thing as “too much luxury” when camping?
2nd Topic is Anti Vaxxer’s
Anti Vaxxer’s are people who are against modern vaccinations, some are against it for religious reasons, some are against it because they believe in government conspiracy’s and some think that they actually cause more problems than they solve.
Here is a little more information.
https://edition.cnn.com/2019/05/04/health/uk-anti-vaxers-matt-hancock-intl/index.html
Discussion questions
1. Are you for or against vaccinations?
2. Can you think of any real reason’s to be against vaccination or anytime when it’s acceptable to not allow vaccination to take place?
3. With the recent increase of some very dangerous conditions due to anti vaxxer’s, do you think these people should be held responsible for the problems caused? If so, how do you recommend they take responsibility?
4. If incorrect information keeps spreading about the effects of vaccination, what do you think the long-term impacts could be for society?
5. What do you think can be done to correct the situation?
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 10th of May - Working life
- 投稿者：David (2019-05-08 (水) 19:34:02)
Working Life
This week I wish to talk about work and any interesting stories or experiences you have from your working life.
Needless to say, work is a huge part of all of our lives, even if you don’t have an actual paid job there is always some kind of work that needs doing whether it is being an account for a huge bank firm or having to run a household for a family.
Sometimes we hear some pretty crazy stories about the amount some people work and the lengths they are willing to go for their jobs, today we can all express our opinions on such stories.
This article covers some differences between the working culture in Japan and the West, the article is using USA for the comparison but the majority of it is true for most Western countries.
https://www.businessinsider.com/differences-between-japanese-and-american-work-culture-2018-3
Discussion questions
1. What do you think about the differences in work culture between Japan and the West, discuss any pros and cons you can think of.
2. What was your first ever job? What did you think of it?
3. Tell the group about the best and worst job you have ever had.
4. How many hours a week do you think is reasonable to work? 30? 40? 50? more?
5. Tell us about your work ethic. What values are most important for you when your working? e.g. quality of work, speed, customer service, profit etc.
6. Discuss any interesting experiences you have had in your working life. e.g. Some strange events, your best achievements, the worst things you have experienced or seen, funniest things, hardest things, easiest things etc.
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 26th of April - Notre Dame, Is it worth it?
- 投稿者：David (2019-04-24 (水) 16:01:28)
Notre Dame, is it worth it?
Recently a great historical building took severe damage from a fire that spiraled out of control and proved to be very difficult to put out. The damage caused was huge, so much of the original building has been lost and even after restoration it will never be the same.
So many people and organisations have donated or promised to donate money in order to complete the reconstruction of the historical building. So far nearly 1 billion dollars have been raised. The question is, is it worth it? Even with this huge amount of money some people estimate it will still not be enough. There are also so many problems in France which require fixing, and of course many issues worldwide. Should the reconstruction of a building really be on such high priority?
Here is some further information.
https://globalnews.ca/news/5175990/notre-dame-cathedral-money-raised-rebuild/
Questions
1. What do you know about Notre Dame Cathedral? Why is it so important?
2. Is Notre Dame so important that it deserves so much investment?
3. What reasons can you think of in favour of reconstruction and what reasons can you think of against the reconstruction.
4. How would you feel about the situation if it was some major historical building inside Tokyo such as the Imperial Palace or Sensoji Temple?
5. Would you donate to either Notre Dame or a Japanese building if it was needed?
6. What other uses can you think of for the money?
7. Out of all the uses discussed in question 5, which do you think are the most and least important?
8. Tell the group any final thoughts you have on the topic.
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or by email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 19th of April - Fukushima cleanup
- 投稿者：David (2019-04-17 (水) 09:50:40)
Fukushima cleanup
This week a major step has taken place in the cleanup of Fukushima.
The first of the fuel rods has been removed and the cleanup operation will continue. They intended to begin this process a number of years ago, but due to unforeseen problems they were not able to. However, with the assistance of new technology they have been able to remove the obstacles in their path and finally begin the process.
Further information can be found in the following link.
Discussion questions
1. How do you feel about nuclear power?
2. Do you think we could sustain ourselves without nuclear power?
3. Should more money and resources have been in invested into the cleanup at an earlier time in order to speed everything up?
4. What other types of power do you know about? e.g. nuclear, coal, solar. What are their pros and cons?
5. Some areas of Fukushima were declared safe by the government a while ago. Do you agree with this? If you were living there would you feel safe?
6. Already a huge amount of contaminated soil and materials have been removed from Fukushima, what do you think their plans are with all this is? Will they just leave them in storage? Bury them? Send them to the bottom of the ocean? Is there any actual positive way to get rid of the waste material?
7. Do you know what they will do with the fuel rods?
8. Discuss any final thoughts and questions you have on the topic.
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavon1987@gmail.com
Discussion guidelines
- 投稿者：David (2019-04-10 (水) 19:15:33)
Welcome everyone to the FMEC topic discussion talk, after hearing a little bit of feed back I wish to just clarify a few simple guide lines to follow during the discussion.
1. The most important thing is to respect people’s opinions; you don’t have to agree with everyone but please be respectful and accept that others may have different ideas to your own.
2. Encourage each other to say their opinions. Please allow everyone to have an equal say, and if someone is being quite then try to encourage them to say what they are thinking and express their thoughts to the group.
3. Be careful with time. Sometimes it can be very easy to talk about your own thoughts for along time, but please try to remember that the time should be split as equally as possible between each person. I know some people will always speak more, or some people will always speak less, but please try to allow each person to have a fair chance to practice speaking.
4. Enjoy yourselves. The main focus of the group is to practice your English language in a relaxed environment with a specialised topic so you must use certain vocabulary. Please encourage each other to speak and practice their language no matter what their opinion is.
Topic for the 12th of April - Adrenaline
- 投稿者：David (2019-04-10 (水) 18:44:50)
Adrenaline and adrenaline junkies
Over the years there have been more and more activities created to give adrenaline rushes. This week we will talk about if you like adrenaline and activities that provide an adrenaline rush.
Activities that provide an adrenaline rush can come in a wide range of forms, from mild things like a foot race to more extreme things like wing suit diving.
This is an extreme example of people using wing suits (these guys are utterly insane).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHJXiRVPazU
This next link just provides someone’s experience of some of the different things they have tried.
https://souldrifters.com/adrenaline-pumping-adventures/
Discussion
1. Do you like the feeling of adrenaline?
2. List as many activities as you can that you think would give you a rush? Also say which ones you would like to try that you have yet to try.
3. What activities have you done or tried that give you a rush?
4. Do you enjoy any activities that give an adrenaline rush? Which do you enjoy more, the rush or the activity?
5. Would you describe yourself as an adrenaline junkie?
6. Do know anyone who is adrenaline junkie?
7. Often when people start to enjoy the feeling of adrenaline they will start chasing for a stronger and strong rush, what do you think about this?
8. Express any final thoughts to the group that you have.
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 5th of April - New Emperor
- 投稿者：David (2019-04-03 (水) 08:38:03)
New Emperor
With the coming abdication of the current Emperor the new era has been named and publicly announced, Reiwa.
There are a few things that are of interest as a result of this event, which are as follows; Akihito will be the first Emperor to abdicate in over two centuries, the changing of era also affects the Japanese calendar, the upcoming two-week golden week, against usual tradition the era name has been publicly named early and if the Royal family are important or not?
For anyone not familiar with what is going on here is a link, the link is from the BBC so if there are any inaccuracies in the information please feel free to correct in the discussion.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-47769566
Questions for discussion
1. How do you feel about the Royal Family in general?
2. Do you think the naming of a new era is such an important event?
3. How much influence over the country do you feel the Royal Family has?
4. Do you use traditional Japanese calendar or western calendar?
5. How do you feel about upcoming two-week holiday?
6. Can you see any negative benefits to such a long national holiday? Such as how it could impact smaller businesses.
7. How do you feel about the current Emperor abdicating?
8. Do you think the choice to name the era early against tradition was a good choice or not? Why do you think they did this?
9. Do you have any final things you want to say about the changing of Emperor or the Royal Family in general?
If you have any questions please contact me on Line or via email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 29th of March - The impact of Video games
- 投稿者：David (2019-03-27 (水) 14:47:23)
Video games and their effect on the world
Video games and the video game industry is becoming huge, really huge. For example, in 2018 the video game industry generated more money than the movie industry and music industry combined.
It is creating so many jobs worldwide and giving so many creative people a platform to show their talents to the world. Music composers, writers, programmers, designers, artists, actors, stuntmen, directors if you can think of it there is a position for it in the gaming industry. There are even professional gamers who make money from tournaments, there are entertainers who make money by playing games and entertaining people as they do.
However, all these increased income and jobs and industry is not without consequence. Video games have had a huge impact on society, both positive and negative. Some of the negatives include people not leaving their house, a decrease in human contact, children secretly taking money from their parents to buy things online, addiction and many other things.
This link provides a few of the pros and cons of gaming.
https://vittana.org/13-video-games-pros-and-cons
We will discuss your own thoughts on video games, your experiences with them and it impact it has had on society.
Discussion questions
1. What’s the first thing you think of when you think of video games?
2. Do you or have you played games? What do or have you played?
3. What is your overall opinion of video games? Why?
4. List as many positives as you can about video games.
5. List as many negatives as you can about video games.
6. What are the biggest impacts it has had on society?
7. Do you think the impact of video games can vary depending on the type of game and type of person?
8. Say any final thoughts you have on the subject to the group.
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or by email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 22nd of March - Olympics
- 投稿者：David (2019-03-20 (水) 08:07:41)
Olympics
With 2020 fast approaching the Olympics is a big topic in Japan right now. While many people are looking forward to it and the increased business it will bring, there are also many people dreading the chaos that it will cause.
This week we will talk about the pros and cons of the Olympics being held in Tokyo and some of the controversies around it.
While the discussion will focus around your likes and dislikes of the Olympics and any sports or athletes you like and follow, I also wish to discuss something else.
The rise of Transgender athletes and the increasing number of medals they have won recently, do you think its fair? This article here has some more information.
Discussion questions
1. How do you feel about the Olympics being held in Tokyo? Is it a good or a bad thing and why?
2. What is your favourite event to watch? Why do you enjoy watching it so much?
3. Do you have any favourite athletes? What do you like about them?
4. Do you think your daily life will be affected while the games are being held in Tokyo?
5. Do you think that Tokyo has done enough to prepare for the games and the increased amount of people? Could anything else be done?
6. How do you feel about transgender athletes? Is it fair that a man can compete in a woman’s event?
7. Do you think that changing your hormones makes it fair physically?
8. There have been quite a few male to female transgender people winning sports events, do you know any examples and how do you feel about it?
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 15th of March - Oceans
- 投稿者：David (2019-03-13 (水) 10:39:58)
Oceans
The Oceans cover more than 70% of the surface of the Earth. Scientists currently think that life began in the Ocean. It still holds a great deal of mysteries and undiscovered life.
This week we will discuss what you think of the Ocean, any activities related to the sea, some of the secrets the Ocean holds or might hold and also the effect mankind has had upon the Oceans.
There are always new things being discovered in the Ocean, this link describes a current expedition that is being undertaken.
Please try to learn one mystery about the Ocean, perhaps some kind of story or myth that is unsolved, a shipwreck that has never been found, an unexplored area of the Ocean or anything else you can find.
Discussion questions
1. How do you feel about the Ocean? Do you like it, not like it, don’t care, does it scare you? etc.
2. What are your favourite things to do in or on the Ocean?
3. What do you think about this new expedition? What do you think they might discover?
4. Do you know any kind of mystery about the Ocean that you wish to discuss?
5. What do you think are the scariest things related to the Ocean?
6. What do you think are the most beautiful things related to Ocean?
7. Finally discuss how humans have affected the Oceans.
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 8th of March - Books
- 投稿者： (2019-03-05 (火) 22:23:02)
Books
This week’s topic is about books. The discussion will be about the impact that books have had on the world, how important books are to you, what type of books you prefer, your favourite author and your favourite book.
Short task - Please, if you can bring in a short passage from one of your favourite books to show or read to the group. Then explain why you chose this book and passage.
Discussion questions
1. How important do you think books are in the world and what impact have they had on the development of society.
2. Do you prefer factual books or fiction? Why?
3. What is your favourite genre?
4. Who is your favourite author or authors? Why?
5. Which book or books are your favourite? What do you like so much about it?
6. What do you think about E-Books?
7. Do you think the internet will eventually replace all physical books?
8. If you were to write your own book what would you write about?
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 1st of March - Military base in Okinawa
- 投稿者：David (2019-02-27 (水) 08:55:30)
Okinawa US Military Base
The situation in Okinawa has of course been ongoing for decades. Recently Shinzo Abe has pushed for plans to rebuild the US military base. The residents of Okinawa have had an unofficial vote, the result was overwhelmingly against the construction. Regardless of this result Shinzo Abe has decided to ignore the people and go ahead with the original plan. This article explains more:
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-47353504
Discussion questions
1. If you voted would you vote for or against the base?
2. What advantages to the base can you see?
3. What disadvantages can you see?
4. How do you think the base affects peoples lives?
5. Why do you think the government ignores the people of Okinawa?
6. The article states that the base will be relocated to an even more isolated and remote location, even with this in mind so many locals are opposed to the rebuild. Why do you think this is?
7. Okinawa is very far away from mainland Japan, do you think has affected the way people think about the situation?
8.Disucuss any final thoughts or ideas you have on the subject.
If there are any questions please contact me via Line, or by email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 22nd of February - Technology changing everyday lives
- 投稿者：David (2019-02-20 (水) 09:13:05)
Technology changing everyday lives
With the advancement of technology comes many changes in everyday life. Technology has affected socializing, entertainment, shopping, travelling, workplaces and just about every other aspect of life you can think of. Many of these changes have improved our quality of life, but they also come with some disadvantages.
Discussion will be around Technology that has had the most impact on everyday lives and the effect you think that will have on the future.
The following link has some interesting changes:
http://www.klientsolutech.com/examples-of-how-technology-has-changed-our-lives/
Discussion questions
1. Which technology do you think has had the biggest impact on our everyday lives? Why do you think this?
2. Which technology or advancement is your favourite and why?
3. What disadvantages can you think of that has come with modern technology?
4. Do you think modern technology is affecting our intelligence? If so, how do you think it’s affecting us?
5. What technology are you addicted to and cannot live without?
6. Give any final thoughts or ideas on today’s topic
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 15th of Febuary - Seasonal events
- 投稿者：David (2019-02-13 (水) 21:01:59)
Seasonal events
Soon winter will come to an end and spring will begin. This week’s topic is seasonal events and the seasons themselves. What is your favourite season and what do you like to do or see in each season.
Also feel free to discuss seasons and events in other countries.
Discussion questions
1. What is your favourite season and why?
2. Tell the group your least favourite season and why.
3. Discuss with the group your favourite events or festivals from each season.
4. What do you like to do in your own time in each season? Do your activities change, if so why?
5. Give your opinions on the different appearances of the seasons, e.g. How the environment looks, how the weather makes the country look, perhaps your country uses certain colours or themes for different seasons etc
6. Where are your favourite places to go in each season? You can choose types of places or specific places.
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or by email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 8th of Febuary - Foreigners in Japan
- 投稿者：David (2019-02-05 (火) 22:47:52)
Increasing number of foreigners in Japan
As time goes by the number of foreigners in Japan is increasing. Tourism, backpackers, workers or immigration for other reasons are all increasing. This week we can discuss some of the reasons to why you think this is happening and if you think it is a good or bad thing.
This article discusses some reasons as to why the government is trying to encourage more foreigners to come to Japan.
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/12/07/world/asia/japan-parliament-foreign-workers.html
Some useful terminology will be provided and then we will move onto the discussion.
Discussion questions
1. Do you personally notice an increase in the number of foreigners? If so, where have you noticed an increase?
2. Has it affected your life in any positive or negative way?
3. What do you think about the increased number of foreigner workers staying here in the long term?
4. What do you think about the increased number of short term visitors in your country? such as, tourists, backpackers etc
5. What do you think about the increased number of Japanese natives marrying foreigners and starting families?
6. How would you react if your children married foreigners?
7. Are there any rights that you think foreigners should be denied? such as voting rights, national health care etc.
8. Discuss any final thoughts you have on the topic
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 1st of February - New vs Old Generations
- 投稿者：David (2019-01-30 (水) 09:50:25)
Old and new generations
This week I wish to discuss the differences between generations. Such as what the older generation think of the new generation and vice versa. We can also discuss about what you think you would be like or do, if you were a different generation or age.
Discussion questions
1. Do you think the new generations of people are different to the old generations? What differences are there?
2. Do you think your father’s or grandfather’s generation was different to your own generation? How were they different?
3. This question is for the younger members in the group. If you were to wake up tomorrow and were suddenly 65 years of age, retired and owned a house. What would you do with your life in today’s world?
4. This question is for the older members of the group. If you were to wake up tomorrow and were suddenly 21 years of age, just finished University and had a large amount of savings. What would you do with your life today’s world?
5. If you could any advice to the next upcoming generation what advice would you give? How do you suggest they live their lives? What do you think is most important in todays world to live a happy successful life?
6. Please tell the group any final opinions you have on the differences of generations.
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 25th of January - Japan
- 投稿者：David (2019-01-22 (火) 21:43:22)
Japan
This week’s topic is Japan. We can talk about your likes and dislikes of Japan, any recent news you think is interesting, favourite locations and anything you might like to change.
First, I will provide some vocabulary which we will check and cover. After that we will move onto the topic.
Discussion Questions
1. What are your favourite and least favourite things about Japan? Why?
2. What are your favourite places in Japan and why?
3. If you could choose just one place to go on holiday where would you pick?
4. If you could pick any place to live in Japan where would you choose to live?
5. Do you have any interesting news or events you want to share or talk about?
6. If you could change anything about Japan, what would you change and why?
Please feel free to change groups if you want.
If you have any questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 18th of January - The Future
- 投稿者：David (2019-01-16 (水) 10:40:44)
The future
This week we will discuss about our future’s. We can talk about what we want to do in the future, it could be tomorrow, next week, next year, next decade or any other time. We can also talk about the future of your country or culture and how you think that may or may not change.
Before the discussion I will provide a list of common expressions and vocabulary to check and learn.
Discussion questions
1. How often do you think about the future?
2. What do you think will happen in your future?
3. What things are you most looking forward to or wishing would happen in your future?
4. What things are you afraid of in the future?
5. How do you think the future of your country could change?
6. Do you think we can learn about the future from looking at the past?
If you have any questions please contact me via Line, or email at davdikanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 11th of January - Robotics
- 投稿者：David (2019-01-08 (火) 21:47:36)
Robotics
Technology has been advancing very quickly in modern times. This week, we will discuss robotics and the impact it could have on society.
This is a short 3-minute video on some of the advances in robotics. Please give it a listen, it also has subtitles.
https://www.bbc.com/news/av/technology-40306617/five-robots-that-are-changing-everything
Questions for discussion
1. What are the 5 robotic technologies in the video?
2. Which do you think could have the most impact on society? Why?
3. Can you think of any negative points to increasing the use of robotics?
4. Can you think of any positive points to increasing the use of robotics?
5. What do you personally think, are you in support of more robots or not? Why do think this?
6. If you could choose, what would you most like a robot for? It can be anything, doing the dishes, going shopping, cleaning, building, working or anything else, it’s your choice.
Feel free to change groups and discuss with others.
If you have any questions or problems, please contact me via Line or by email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 28th of December - Whaling
- 投稿者：David (2018-12-26 (水) 19:01:19)
Whaling and the importance of animal conservation
This week’s topic is Whaling. Specifically, Japan and whaling.
Very recently the Japanese government announced that it would leave the IWC (International whaling commission) and resume commercial whale hunting.
This news article explains more:
Discussion questions
1. What do you think about Whaling?
2. What kind of impact do you think it will have upon Whales?
3. How do you think this makes Japan look internationally?
4. Why do you think the Japanese government has made this decision?
5. Do you think this puts the species at risk of extinction?
6. How do you feel about animal conservation programs?
If you finish please join other people and exchange ideas.
If you have any questions or problems please contact me via Line, or by email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 21st of December - Christmas
- 投稿者：David (2018-12-19 (水) 12:35:07)
Christmas
This week’s topic is Christmas. While there are many aspects of Christmas that could be discussed we will focus on how people celebrate it and some of the stories around it.
This first link provides some information on how people traditionally celebrate in the UK.
https://www.whychristmas.com/cultures/uk.shtml
And this second link provides some information regarding some of the newer folklore.
http://www.elfcrazy.com/traditional-names-of-the-first-christmas-elves/
Discussion questions
1. What do people usually do on Christmas Day in England?
2. What is Christmas?
3. Do you think people leave gifts for Santa? What do you think they leave for him?
4. Can you name some traditional English Christmas food?
5. Where does the modern Santa Claus live?
6. What is an Elf and what do they do?
7. How does Santa Claus travel across the world?
8. How you celebrate Christmas?
9. Do you think western children are spoiled too much at Christmas? What kind of presents do you think they get?
Please if you have any problems or questions contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 14th of December - Live shows/events
- 投稿者：David (2018-12-12 (水) 12:26:28)
Live shows
Live shows have always been very popular throughout all of history. This week we will discuss what type of live show you enjoy the most and why. Is it music festivals, live comedy shows, theatre, opera, dance, cabaret, pantomime or anything else?
Discussion questions
1. What type of live show do you like the most and why?
2. What and when was the last time you went to a live show?
3. Do you know what pantomime is? Have you ever seen it?
4. Who is your favourite live performer and why?
5. What type of person are you at a live show? Are you someone who gets in the middle of everything, someone who likes to be part of the show or do you prefer to watch more quietly?
6. Would you ever want to do some kind of live performance yourself?
7. Do you think there are any kind of live shows that are less popular than they used to be?
8. Give any final thoughts you have to the group, and change members if there is any remaining time.
If anyone has any problems or questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 7th of December - Movies/Films
- 投稿者：David (2018-12-04 (火) 23:02:54)
Movies/Films
This week’s topic is Movies/Films. We can tell each other what our favourite films are, our favourite genres, our favourite places to watch films and who with.
Movies have been a big part of modern society for a long now and have changed a lot over the years for better or worse.
Questions to discuss
1. What are your favourite and least favourite genres of films? Why?
2. What are your favourite and least favourite films? Why?
3. Who are your favourite actors/actresses?
4. Where do you like watching films the most? At home, cinema, a friend’s house or anywhere else?
5. Do you think films have gotten better or worse over the years. What do you think the biggest differences are?
6. Who are your favourite people to watch films with? By yourself, with friends, with spouse, with family or anyone else?
7. Would you ever want to work in the film industry? Why?
Vocabulary
Here a few words related to films, see how many you know:
- Prequel Sequel
- Subbed/Subtitled Dubbed/Dubbing
- Director Producer
- Cast CGI
- Remake Reboot
This is a list of some of the most popular genres:
- Action Adventure
- Comedy Crime
- Drama Historical
- Horror Musical
- Science Fiction Thriller
- War Western
If anyone has any problems or questions, please contact me via Line or by email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 30th of November - Gender Equality
- 投稿者：David (2018-11-28 (水) 10:33:33)
Gender Equality - Opportunity vs Outcome
This week’s topic is gender equality, more importantly the difference between equality of opportunity and equality of outcome which are different things.
So, what exactly is the difference?
Equality of opportunity – This is where everyone has the same chance or opportunity to get the same things in life. Such as everyone having equal chance for the same jobs, same wage, same social status etc. Regardless of sex, age, race or any other differences.
Equality of outcome – This is where the result is an exactly even split. So, in an office 50% would be men and 50% would be women, they would also be different races. It also applies at all levels of jobs so, the lowest level of job would be evenly split and so would the highest levels of jobs.
This is some information on current gender equality in Japan.
Questions to discuss
1. What is the difference between equality of opportunity and equality of outcome.
2. Which do you think is more important, equality of opportunity or equality of outcome.
3. Do you think we can ever have 100% equality of opportunity and outcome? Why do you think this?
4. Do you think men and women have equal opportunity in Japan right 2018-11-28 (水) 10:33:33
5. If there are equality differences, do you think there are any reasons for the differences?
Could it be difference in intelligence, physically, due to sexism, family reasons, perhaps men and women being interested in different things? What reasons can you think of?
If you have any extra time, change groups and discuss what you have learnt.
Please contact me if you have any questions or problems via Line, or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 16th of November - Shopping
- 投稿者：David (2018-11-14 (水) 09:14:58)
Shopping
Last weeks topic was a little difficult, so I have made sure that this week is a bit easier.
This week I want to discuss shopping. Talk about your own and others shopping habits, if you like to indulge or if you like to save.
We can also talk about the differences between men and women shopping, how shopping habits are changing with online shopping becoming more popular.
Here is a link explaining a few differences between men and women shopping for clothes, I however think that these rules apply across all different types of shopping.
http://blog.boldmetrics.com/3-differences-between-the-way-men-and-women-shop-for-clothes/
This next link also shows a possible shopping route for men vs women. I know that this is certainly true between my wife and I.
https://www.reddit.com/r/MGTOW/comments/95jvcr/men_vs_women_shopping_patterns_although_its/
Discussion questions
1. Is shopping something you enjoy?
2. What are your favourite things to shop for?
3. Do you think men and women shop differently?
4. How do you prefer to shop? Fast? Slow? Alone? With friends?
5. Are you the type of person to indulge? Are you an impulsive buyer?
6. With online shopping becoming more popular how do you think it is affecting shoppers and retailers?
7. Do you know the difference between “going shopping” and “doing the shopping”?
8. What are you favourite places to shop? Shopping centers, small markets, brand stores, high streets, small towns and streets?
If you have any questions or problems, please contact me on Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 9th of Novemeber - Bonfire Night
- 投稿者： (2018-11-07 (水) 09:32:20)
Bonfire night
This week on Monday 5th of November was a British celebration day of “Bonfire Night”, so I thought it would make an interesting talking point.
I think that it is one of the lesser known celebration days outside of the UK. While these days it has lost some of its importance it is still celebrated across the whole of the UK.
During this night we have festivals with many firework displays, big fires, festival foods, dancing and various other things.
The following link explains why we celebrate bonfire night and what its purpose was:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/15351828
If you are interested and would like to learn a bit more this next link is a bit more detailed.
https://www.history.co.uk/article/history-of-bonfire-night
Questions for discussion:
What is Bonfire night?
Why do people celebrate it?
Who was Guy Fawkes and how was he killed?
How did the plot get discovered?
Do you think Guy Fawkes was a hero? Or a villain? Why?
How do you think British people view Guy Fawkes?
If this had happened in Japan how do you think Japanese people would view it?
These days some British people want to end the festivals for bonfire night the main reasons are, environmental concerns due to fires and pollution, injuries from people using fireworks incorrectly, large amounts of noise causing problems and some people think it is an out dated celebration. What do you think about this, is it something that should be ended? Or is history too important and should be remembered?
If you have any questions or problems please contact me by Line, or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 26th of October - Religion
- 投稿者：David (2018-10-23 (火) 21:19:12)
Religion
This week’s topic is religion. Religion has a huge impact in every country. Even if a country is not ruled by religion now, often its laws are still based upon the old religious laws from a bygone era.
I am pretty sure that everyone is familiar with religion. However, for anyone interested in reading about a few of the positive and negative impacts religion has upon society, you can see in the following link.
The article is quite long but if you scroll down and just look at the two sections, “Pros of religion” and “Cons of religion”. It has some good ideas.
https://soapboxie.com/social-issues/The-Pros-And-Cons-Of-Religion
Discussion questions
1. Are you or have you ever been part of a religion? Which religion?
2. Do you think religion is a good or a bad thing overall?
3. List some positives and negatives of religion.
4. Do you think religious people are happier than none religious people?
5. Has religion had an impact on Science?
6. Should children be told which religion to follow or allowed to make their own choice?
7. Religions teach peace and harmony, yet it is the reason of many wars. Why do you think this is?
8. Give any final thoughts on religion to the group.
After the discussion change or make larger groups and give feedback to other people on what you have learnt.
Topic for the 19th of October - Exercise
- 投稿者：Dave (2018-10-17 (水) 16:06:27)
Exercise
This week's topic is exercise. The following link talks about recommend weekly exercise and which countries exercise the least.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/amp/health-45408017
For some people exercise is important, whereas some people hate it. Either way it is something we should all take part in.
Take some time to think about what exercise means to you and if you do enough if it.
Questions to discuss are;
1. What type of exercise do you do? And do you enjoy it?
2. What are your reasons for exercising? Is it for fun? For health? Perhaps for social reasons?
3. Do you think people in your country exercise enough?
4. Is exercise promoted and taught enough in schools?
5. What are the possible negative results of not exercising?
6. Are there any downsides to exercise?
7. Can you think of any kind of exercise or activity that you would like to try?
After this discussion, if there is time, please give feedback on anything you have learnt to the rest of the group.
If you have any problems or questions please contact me via Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 12th of October - Food
- 投稿者：David (2018-10-10 (水) 11:33:19)
This weeks topic is food. We will find out how important food is for each other, along with our likes and dislikes.
This link has a list of various cuisines from around the world and what they offer. Please take a brief look at anything that you are interested in, find something you have never tried but would like to.
https://www.bbc.com/food/cuisines
For the group discussion, here are some possible questions. Please do not feel like you must stay strictly to the list and finish it, but you can if you want to.
1. How much do you like food?
2. What are some of your favorite cuisine types, e.g. French, Japanese, Italian?
3. Are there any types of cuisine that you have never tried but you want to try?
4. What are your favorite foods or dishes?
5. How often do you think about food?
6. Are you a picky eater or can you eat anything?
7. Are you careful about what you eat?
8. Which meal is your favorite? e.g breakfast, lunch, dinner or snack times?
9. What junk food do you like?
10.If you had the choice to eat anything in the entire world at this moment what would you choose?
Please if you have any questions or problems contact me on Line, or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 5th of October - Nature
- 投稿者：David (2018-10-03 (水) 10:47:25)
This week’s topic is nature.
We can discuss if its important to us as individuals or of its importance to the planet.
https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/10-of-the-most-beautiful-national-parks-in-the-world.html
This is a short list of some national parks across the world. You can choose from this list or any other place, but choose a place you wish to visit.
To me nature is very important, but that is not the case for everyone.
Possible questions to talk about
Make sure everyone understands what nature is.
How much do you like or dislike nature? Why?
From the link provided or your own choice from elsewhere, tell the group where you would most like to see.
In your opinion where is nature at its most beautiful? Beaches, oceans, mountains, deserts, forests, underwater, jungles etc.
How important is nature to Japan?
Where do you think is the most beautiful place in Japan?
If you have any questions or problems please contact me via Line, or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 28th of September - Living from the heart or Living from the mind
- 投稿者：David (2018-09-26 (水) 13:00:53)
Live from the heart or mind?
This week I want to discuss the differences between living from the heart and the mind. What I mean by this is as follows;
Living from the mind – Planning and thinking. For instance, choosing your education based upon what jobs are available and what pays well. Planning out your weeks and days based on what you think is optimal.
Living from the heart – Choosing education and your life based on what you like and how you feel. Choosing the paths, you take in life based on your feelings.
This article talks a little about it. It is written from the perspective of a woman and her observations of other women. However, a lot of it is still just as relevant to men.
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-suzanne-steinbaum/living-from-the-heart_b_2528372.html
Some questions to consider talking about are as follows.
What advantages and disadvantages do each lifestyle offer? Give some examples.
Which lifestyle do you prefer, and is it the lifestyle you live by?
Which lifestyle do you think most people in your country live by?
Would you like to live the opposite lifestyle?
How does each lifestyle impact society in positive and negative ways?
If you have any questions or problems please contact me on Line or email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 21st of September - England
- 投稿者：David Jeavons (2018-09-19 (水) 14:05:10)
This week’s topic is England. I want to discuss the culture and country.
First however last week we briefly talked about authors. I mentioned a couple of my favourite authors. One of which being Douglas Adams, who wrote this book “The Hitch Hikers Guide to the Galaxy”. This is perhaps a little difficult to understand for some people but please try to the first few pages of the following book if you are interested, up to page 5 (going by the numbers at the top of the pages in the book).
Please tell me if this level you are able to understand, if you like it, dislike like it, what do you think?
https://grannyswag.files.wordpress.com/2015/06/adams-douglas-the-hitchhikers-guide-to-the-galaxy.pdf
The following link provides some information regarding England and some of its ways of life.
https://www.roughguides.com/article/21-things-everyone-should-know-before-visiting-britain/
Group questions to discuss
1. What images spring to mind when you think of England
2. What is England famous for?
3. Do you think British people are polite?
4. How important are pubs to English people?
5. What do you think about British food?
6. Do you know what any of the following foods are? Black pudding, Yorkshire pudding, Scone, Toad in the hole, Shepard’s pie?
7. How do you think people from outside of London view London?
8. Where do you think are important places to visit in England?
9. Is there any information you know or think about England that you want to say?
10.How do Japanese people view England and English people?
If you have any questions or problems please contact me at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for the 14th of September - Bullying
- 投稿者：David (2018-09-12 (水) 13:01:30)
Bullying
This week’s topic is bullying. I wish to discuss about the effects of bullying, how frequent it occurs and possible reasons it happens.
The following article highlights some of the issues of bullying in Japan. It is however, written from a western perspective so I will be interested to hear people’s views on this article.
https://www.economist.com/asia/2017/04/12/why-bullying-in-japanese-schools-is-especially-traumatic
This article highlights some of the issues that occur in the UK.
These articles should give you a good idea of bullying and perhaps some of the impact it can have on the individuals and families.
The group will divide into small groups for a discussion on bullying. Here are some possible questions.
1. What exactly is bullying? Make sure everyone knows.
2. Do you think bullying is a large problem in your country?
3. Do you think bullying is different or the same in other countries?
4. What different kinds of bullying can you think of? Give some examples.
5. Have you been a victim of bullying? Or have you ever been a bully yourself?
6. What do you think about cyber-bullying (bullying on the internet)?
7. Do you think we can prevent bullying or is it part of growing up?
8. What kind of people bully others? Do you think they need help? Do they need to be punished?
9. What are the long-term effects of bullying?
10. Do you have any suggestions for dealing with bullying? Stand up to them? Report them?
After the group discussion there will be a small scenario to discuss.
If there are any questions or something you do not understand. Please feel free to contact me at:
davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for 7th September - Animals and zoos
- 投稿者： (2018-09-05 (水) 09:43:16)
Animals and Zoos
For the coming lesson the topic is animals and zoos. We will find out each other’s thoughts about animals and if zoos are good, bad, needed or unneeded.
This article lists some of the positives and negatives of zoos.
https://greengarageblog.org/list-of-11-biggest-pros-and-cons-of-zoos
First set of questions are related to your own view on animals.
(1) Do you like animals? Why?
(2) What is your favorite animal?
(3) What is the cutest animal in the world?
(4) What animal are you most fascinated by? What is so interesting about it?
(5) What animal do you least like? Why do you like it so little?
(6) What animal best represents your character? How so?
(7) If you had infinite money and space and you could keep any animal what would you choose?
Second set of questions are regarding your views on zoos.
(1) Do you like zoos?
(2) What are some positive points of zoos?
(3) What are some negative points of zoos?
(4) Overall is your opinion of zoos positive or negative?
(5) Do you think animals are happy being in a zoo?
(6) Do you think there should be a human exhibition at a zoo?
(7) Give any final thoughts on zoos, such as any animals you think should never be kept, any ways to improve the wellbeing of the animals, if you think all zoos should be closed or be given increased funding anything you can think of.
In the final part of the discussion I will present a few animal related idioms, to see if you know or can figure out their meanings.
If you have any questions please contact me at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
Topic for August 31st - Sexism
- 投稿者：David Jeavons (2018-08-28 (火) 22:40:52)
Sexism
Sexism is the unfair treatment of people based on their gender.
For example, giving the best job positions to males and then the lesser positions to females just because they are female. Or thinking that a woman is weak and not capable just because she is a woman.
Whether you think it is ok or not, sexism exists in our everyday life.
Here are some of examples of sexism taking place in everyday life:
https://www.mookychick.co.uk/feminism/uk-feminism/10-examples-sexism-women-face-every-damn-day.php
After the initial free chat, we will divide into small groups based on number of attendees and exchange opinions. Here are some possible questions.
(1) What exactly is sexism?
(2) Can you give any examples of sexism that you know about?
(3) Have you ever been a victim of sexism?
(4) Have you ever done anything sexist yourself?
(5) Does sexism exist in your family?
(6) What kind of sexism is there in your society?
(7) Do you think sexism will always be a part of society?
(8) Is it possible for sexism to completely disappear?
(9) Is it always women who suffer because of sexism, or can men suffer too?
(10) Does sexism go down when a country’s leader is a woman?
(11) Which countries do you think have made great progress in addressing sexism?
After this question time, a scenario will be presented to think about.
Topic for August 24
- 投稿者：David (2018-08-22 (水) 10:22:44)
Marriage in Britain and Japan.
Just like in Japan marriage rate is also decreasing in Britain. Here are a couple of links explaining some of the possible reasons.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bbcthree/article/7b96f5d1-47af-44b5-a530-b70e5533324a
Similar to last week I will do discussions in various group sizes, I will change the group sizes based on the number of people who attend.
First will be 1 to 1 here are some possible questions to ask each other.
Why do you think marriage in Britain is decreasing?
Do you think marriage is important or not important? Why?
What do you think about couples who are not married?
Do you think people should stay married even if they no longer love each other?
Do you think marriage changes people? What changes? Are they good changes or bad changes?
Has your opinion of marriage changed during your life?
Who has the happiest marriage you Knｏw?
Why do you think this is?
I will then increase the group size based on how many people attend and as small groups discuss the following:
Do you think the reasons for marriage decreasing are the same in Britain as they are in Japan?
Discuss the impact society has on people getting married? For example, do you think society pressures people into marriage?
What do you think the secret to a happy marriage is?
Assuming I have time, I will also provide each small group with a scenario to discuss and answer.
I would also like each person to try and learn a few idioms related to marriage to use in the class, here are a few possibilities. You do not need to remember all but try to learn 1 or 2 please.
1. Tie the knot - to get married
e.g. Did you hear about Ben and Jill? They tied the knot last week.
2. Without a doubt - 100% certain
e.g. I want to marry her without a doubt.
3. An item - two people in an established relationship
e.g. Did you hear that those two are an item
4. Bend over backwards - to do anything for someone
e.g. He would bend over backwards for her
5. Better half - A person's spouse or partner
e.g. How is your better half today?
If you already know all these idioms please try to learn 1 or 2 and use in the discussion.
If any questions people contact me at
davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
The topic for August 17
- 投稿者：David (2018-08-14 (火) 20:26:08)
Hello everyone, my name is David and I will hopefully be your teacher for the foreseeable future. As I am not fully familiar with your level of English, I will approach this in a way that should be comfortable for you and allow me to discover your English level.
This week’s topic – Backpacking
If you are not familiar with backpacking, the following links will help to explain what it is along with some positives and negatives.
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/227899/5-benefits-of-backpacking/
http://www.littlegatepublishing.com/2017/06/are-you-prepared-for-the-dangers-of-backpacking/
First, the class will be divided into pairs to ask the following questions.
(1) Have you ever been backpacking?
(2) What are the advantages of backpacking?
(3) What are the negative points or dangers of backpacking?
(4) What are the essential items to put in a backpack when travelling?
(5) Would you prefer to go on a two-week luxury cruise or go backpacking for six months? Why?
(6) Have you ever stayed at a backpackers' or similar budget accommodation?
(7) Do you think backpacking is done only by those with little money?
(8) In which countries would you most and least like to go backpacking?
(9) Is backpacking generally something for younger people?
(10) Is it OK for old people to go backpacking?
(11) Would you like to go backpacking around your own country?
Next, we will have group feedback and discussion on a few questions.
1. What is your overall view and opinion on backpacking?
2. What do you think of backpackers in Japan? Is it a good or bad thing? Why?
3. If you have never been backpacking before, is it something you would do? If you have been backpacking before, would you go again?
There will be a final activity where you are divided into 2 or 3 groups and provided a scenario to talk about.
If there are any words or phrases you do not understand in the articles or the lesson plan, please let me know by sending me an email at davidkanejeavons1987@gmail.com
For the most commonly asked words or phrases, I will cover those in class.
I’m looking forward to meeting you all this Friday.
David
New Facilitator
- 投稿者：Freddie (2018-08-09 (木) 18:58:07)
Hello. How are you doing?
I have good news for member of topic discussion course.
I've invited a native English speaker to support topic discussion course at Friday’s session.
Hi is David, he is from UK, and experienced English teacher, he is going to come our club from August 17th.
We look forward to having you join us!
この度、トピックディスカッションコースにイギリス人のデビッドさんにレギュラーで来てもらうことになりました。
ネイティブスピーカーに定期的に入っていただくことで、皆さんに質の高い学習会を届けられたら嬉しいです。
初回のセッションは8/17(金)となりますので皆さん楽しみにしてくださいね？
たくさんの方の参加をお待ちしております。
後ほどマテリアルはDavidさんより投稿していただきます。
質問があれば投稿のコメント欄で質問も受けてくれるそうなのでそちらもご利用下さい。
The topic for August 3
- 投稿者：徳永 (2018-08-01 (水) 07:06:17)
Agenda 1
Thousands rally to protest LDP lawmaker Mio Sugita’s remark calling LGBT people ‘unproductive’
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2018/07/27/national/social-issues/thousands-rally-protest-ldp-lawmaker-mio-sugitas-remark-calling-lgbt-people-unproductive/#.W2DNPPZuJPa
Key Questions
It is an undeniable truth that same-sex couples are not able to reproduce and for a society as Japan with minus-population growth that is unproductive. Do you agree?
Some people say there is nothing wrong with Ms. Sugita’s remark because “Different people have different views, let alone their political positions,” Do you agree?
Do you think that there are many people who have the same opinion as Ms.Sugita?
Some opposition parties are demanding her resignation over the article. Do you agree?
Agenda 2
Nightly Routines and how to sleep hack your way to a productive morning
http://www.littlemight.com/nightly-routine/
THE 6 THINGS BEFORE BED
1. Reflection
2. Priorities for tomorrow
3. Wins
4. Gratitude
5. Clean Desk = Clean Mind
6. Sleep Hack
The topics for 7/27
- 投稿者：Tom (2018-07-25 (水) 08:50:06)
We are going to reuse the agendas which were supposed to be discussed in 7/6.
On that day there was no facilitator and no materials were given to the participants, that’s why these topics have been selected again.
◯Agenda 1: Business and social media
http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-44110588
Key Questions
1. If your company has social media account, do you think it contributes to your work?
If not, does your company need this?
2. What do you think are advantages and disadvantages of handling social media account of your company?
3. Do you agree or disagree that businesses have to maintain their social interactions via social media?
◯Agenda 2: Avoiding risks in the final World Cup game
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2018/07/01/soccer/international-soccer/nishino-apologizes-players-tactics-late-group-stage-match-poland/#.Wzt-LpFcWEe
Key Questions
1. How did you rate the decision that Japan just tapped the ball in order to avoid the risks of bookings or another Poland goal?
2. What do you think about the performances Japan showed in the World Cup matches?
The topics for July 20
- 投稿者：Saya (2018-07-16 (月) 23:22:20)
1. Can you really tell if a kid is lying
https://www.ted.com/talks/kang_lee_can_you_really_tell_if_a_kid_is_lying
- Do you think can we really reveal people's hidden emotion by looking at facial blood flow changes?
- If "transdermal optical imaging" is put to practical use, what will it bring positive/negative changes to our society?
- The speaker says that the accuracy of "transdermal optical imaging" is about 85 percent. If you can use the technology to read politicians' emotions, marketing research, or even dating, how are you going to use it?
2. Medicare May Soon Pay Doctors for Diagnosis via Text Message
https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucejapsen/2018/07/12/medicare-may-soon-pay-doctors-for-diagnosis-via-patient-text-message/#28bcd74c47ff
- Do you think "virtual care" works in Japan?
- In your opinion, what kind of impact does "virtual care" have on patients, doctors, cost of medical care, and health insurance system?
The topics for 7/13
- 投稿者：徳永 (2018-07-10 (火) 22:57:05)
Topic 1
7 Techniques That Can Help You Read Other People’s Minds
https://www.storypick.com/mind-reading-techniques/
Although there is no research evidence to support mind reading via extra sensory perception (ESP), there are individuals who are extremely skilled at reading others’ body language and making educated guesses about what they are thinking or feeling.
Key Quetions
Do you think you are skilled at mind-reading?
If you could read someone's mind, would you?
What if someone can read your mind?
Do you ever get the feeling that some people can read your mind?
Topic 2
Pros and Cons of Death Penalty
https://opinionfront.com/death-penalty-pros-cons
Is the death penalty appropriate or should it be banned?
Which crimes should require a death penalty?
If you oppose the death penalty, what do you say to the loved ones of the murderer’s subsequent victims?
The topics for 7/6
- 投稿者：Tom (2018-07-03 (火) 22:54:07)
◯Agenda 1: Business and social media
http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-44110588
Key Questions
1. If your company has social media account, do you think it contributes to your work?
If not, does your company need this?
2. What do you think are advantages and disadvantages of handling social media account of your company?
3. Do you agree or disagree that businesses have to maintain their social interactions via social media?
◯Agenda 2: Avoiding risks in the final World Cup game
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2018/07/01/soccer/international-soccer/nishino-apologizes-players-tactics-late-group-stage-match-poland/#.Wzt-LpFcWEe
Key Questions
1. How did you rate the decision that Japan just tapped the ball in order to avoid the risks of bookings or another Poland goal?
2. What do you think about the performances Japan showed in the World Cup matches?
The topics for 6/29
- 投稿者：Tom (2018-06-27 (水) 22:34:51)
◯Agenda 1: Business and social media
http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-44110588
Key Questions
1. If your company has social media account, do you think it contributes to your work?
If not, does your company need this?
2. What do you think are advantages and disadvantages of handling social media account of your company?
3. Do you agree or disagree that businesses have to maintain their social interactions via social media?
◯Agenda 2: Self-driving car
https://www.bbc.com/news/business-44159581
Key Questions
1. In the article above, safety experts say that automation itself has vital safety benefits such as the decrease on the number of accidents.
Do you agree with this point although driverless cars are still on an experimental phase?
2. What do you think will act as a deterrent to reduce severe accidents automated cars may cause?
The topics for June 22
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2018-06-20 (水) 02:11:11)
Topic 1
First mixed race Miss Japan hits out at the 'spasmodic vomit of racial abuse' she's suffered because father is African-American
Many in the country have expressed hostility to Ariana's title win as they expected the award to go to a 'pure' Japanese woman and not a 'hafu', meaning half Japanese, which has echoes of the discredited term 'half-caste'.
Do you think it is okay to choose a hafu to represent Japan?'
Do you think that Japanese have an implicit bias against blacks ?
Topic 2
How to Stay Together When You Are Different From Each Other
https://www.lifehack.org/634712/how-to-stay-together-when-you-are-different-from-each-other
What do you think is the best way to Stay Together When You Are Different From Each Other？
How much should you compromise for your relationship？
Some are unwilling to give anything up.
Some compromise more than their partner does.
Some sacrifice way more than they should.
Compromise only when it makes both happier and better.
Both partners should give something up.
The topics for Jun 15
- 投稿者：Saya (2018-06-13 (水) 01:16:13)
1. What if we replaced politicians with randomly selected people?
https://www.ted.com/talks/brett_hennig_what_if_we_replaced_politicians_with_randomly_selected_people
Key Questions:
- Hypothetically speaking, what would happen if the third House was founded (besides the House of Representatives/Councilors) in Japan and administered by randomly selected people?
- Do you think random selection can be a key part of healthy democracy?
- If you are selected as a member of the third House, how will you use your influence as a legislator?
- If [other FMEC member] are selected as a member of the third House, what do you think will he/she do as a legislator?
2. Why You Like Listening To The Same Song Over And Over Again
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/why-you-like-listening-same-song_us_5b06c900e4b05f0fc8458fc2
Key Questions:
- Do you think "music is the way that we create our personal identity"?
- Do you think your favorite songs have any common characteristics (lyrics, beats, etc.)?
- Do you have any songs which makes you remind specific memories/feelings/persons whenever you listen to it?
- In your opinion, what is the definition of "catchy songs"?
The topics for Jun 1
- 投稿者：Saya (2018-05-30 (水) 00:11:55)
1. When does micro-cheating become 'actual' cheating?
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bbcthree/article/d2eae5dd-3624-4a5e-9324-37b551315741
Key Questions:
- Do you think micro-cheating is getting easier in the digital age?
- Do you think the following examples are categorized in micro-cheating?
・Messaging an ex ・Liking someone else’s posts on social media ・Building a 'platonic' friendship online ・Not deleting your profile on dating apps ・Fantasising about someone else while having sex
- In your opinion, what kind of other actions should be called as micro-cheating?
2. Robots invade the Smithsonian museums
http://money.cnn.com/2018/05/01/technology/pepper-smithsonian-museums/index.html
Robots could kill many Las Vegas jobs
http://money.cnn.com/2018/01/29/technology/las-vegas-automation/index.html
Key Questions:
- What kind of jobs do you think robots (Like Pepper) will be able to do in the future?
- What can we do to avoid the risk to lose our jobs to automation?
- Do you think robots will create new work opportunities for us?
The topics for May 25 are listed below
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2018-05-23 (水) 07:09:05)
Topic 1 " The Future of Marriage"
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/tammy-nelson-phd/the-future-of-marriage_b_6265428.html
Marriage, up until now, has been defined by five things:
One, being married to one person,
Two, marriage is between a man and a woman,
Three, marriage meant that you were partners for a lifetime,
Four, marriage was a promise based on integrity as well as a legal contract and,
Five, marriage meant sexual fidelity to one person; forever.
Do you agree with them？
Now, in this century, we see a new era, the 2010’s and 2020’s are witnessing a revolution in marriage that has never been experienced before.
Right now, about 40% of Americans think marriage is obsolete as a concept. They are not sure it is even necessary. even exist. Do you agree?
“I don't like the idea of signing a piece of paper that says I have to be with someone for the rest of my life and can never escape from that person “ How do you feel about the comment?
Topic 2 American football: Coach ordered player to "crush" opposing QB in Japan
https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2018/05/2464d65499ae-american-football-coach-ordered-dirty-hit-says-nihon-univ-player.html
Key questions
Nihon University officials said it is true Miyagawa was told to "crush" the opponent, but it is a term often used by coaches before games which merely means "play without fear." What do you think of this comment?
Miyagawa quoted a coach as saying Nihon University "would get benefits if the quarterback (of Kwansei Gakuin) gets injured and misses fall matches." Do you think the coach meant what he said?
Miyagawa said ,"Even though it was an order by the coaches, I could have refused but went ahead and acted. It was a sign of weakness on my part.” How do you feel about the comment?
The topics for 5/18
- 投稿者：Tom (2018-05-16 (水) 00:04:19)
Agenda 1: Internet-good or bad?
http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english/ep-180426
Key Question
Do you think the internet has generally been positive or negative for the world?-the same as asked in the transcript-
Agenda 2: Foreign tourism boom in Japan
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2018/05/05/national/media-national/japan-struggling-deal-foreign-tourism-boom/#.Wvbo1v9cWEc
Key Questions
1. Do you think the increasing number of foreign tourists mainly cause positive effects on Japan?
2. Which kind of problem should be solved in order to keep tourism in Japan sustainable?
The topics for May 11
- 投稿者：Saya (2018-05-08 (火) 00:23:18)
1. How to build (and rebuild) trust
https://www.ted.com/talks/frances_frei_how_to_build_and_rebuild_trust
Key Questions:
- In what kind of situation do you feel trust is broken?
- In such cases, do you think it can be caused by lack of empathy, logic, or authenticity?
- Do you think putting away your cell phone and looking up at the people can be a good way to have a strong empathy each other?
- For authenticity, the speaker says that it is important to pay less attention to what people want to hear from you and more attention to what you need to say. Do you agree with it? Do you have any other ideas to "be you"?
- Do you think there are any other crucial factors to build/rebuild trust?
2. How your workplace is killing you
http://www.bbc.com/capital/story/20180502-how-your-workplace-is-killing-you
Key Questions:
- What kind of working practices do you think have harmful effects on the companies as well as the workers? And why?
- Do you think your supervisor is the most important to the healthy working environment?
- According the article, every employee of Patagonia, Inc. (an American outdoor clothing company) has a three-day weekend every other week. Do you have any other ideas not only to keep the workers healthy (physically and psychologically) but also to increase the companies' productivity?
The topic for April 27
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2018-04-24 (火) 22:39:22)
Topic 1 Me Too rises in Japan as sexually harassed journalists speak out
Some may ask that if sexual harassment is so common in Japan, why do so few speak up about it?
The Me Too movement, which was initially slow to spread in Japan, is now quietly reaching boiling point.
Topic 2 The Future of Marriage
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/tammy-nelson-phd/the-future-of-marriage_b_6265428.html
Marriage, up until now, has been defined by five things:
One, being married to one person,
Two, marriage is between a man and a woman,
Three, marriage meant that you were partners for a lifetime,
Four, marriage was a promise based on integrity as well as a legal contract and,
Five, marriage meant sexual fidelity to one person; forever.
Do you agree with them？
The topic for April 27
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2018-04-24 (火) 22:35:01)
Topic 1 Me Too rises in Japan as sexually harassed journalists speak out
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2018/04/22/national/social-issues/sexual-harassment-scandal-highlights-a-larger-problem-in-japans-media/#.Wt8m2kxuJPZ
Some may ask that if sexual harassment is so common in Japan, why do so few speak up about it?
The Me Too movement, which was initially slow to spread in Japan, is now quietly reaching boiling point.
Topic 2 The Future of Marriage
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/tammy-nelson-phd/the-future-of-marriage_b_6265428.html
Marriage, up until now, has been defined by five things:
One, being married to one person,
Two, marriage is between a man and a woman,
Three, marriage meant that you were partners for a lifetime,
Four, marriage was a promise based on integrity as well as a legal contract and,
Five, marriage meant sexual fidelity to one person forever. Do you agree with them？
The topics for 4/20
- 投稿者：Tom (2018-04-19 (木) 00:27:12)
Agenda 1. Transport of the future
Key question: Do you think our transportation systems should be more convenient, rapid and safer?
Source: BBC Learning English-6 minute English
Please listen in advance.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english/ep-180208
Agenda 2. Way to learn to speak
Key question: How do you learn to speak a language?
Source: BBC Learning English-6 minute English
Please listen in advance.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english/ep-180315
The topics for 4/13
- 投稿者：Saya (2018-04-12 (木) 00:51:33)
1. How to spot a liar
https://www.ted.com/talks/pamela_meyer_how_to_spot_a_liar
Key Questions:
- Are you good at spotting a liar? If yes, what motions or gestures can be the sign of telling lies?
- In what case do you become a liar? Do you have any habits to hide your feelings when you say lying?
- Can you forgive well-intentioned/innocent lies? What kind of lies do you think pernicious to human relationships?
2. How do you start your introduction: firm, school or you?
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/opinion/2018/04/09/commentary/japan-commentary/start-introduction-firm-school/#.Ws4WoIhuaUk
Key Questions:
- Do you think your affiliation or educational background gives you a solid identity?
- How can you describe yourself apart from your title?
Topic discussion will not be held on April 6th
- 投稿者：K TOKUNAGA (2018-04-03 (火) 00:05:58)
Those who are going to join the topic discussion course, please join "the free talks course"
The topics for March 30th are listed below
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2018-03-28 (水) 08:50:53)
Topic 1:
Do you think it is our responsibility to take care of our parents when they get old?
If you have children, do you expect that they will take care of you as you age?
If you do not have children, have you created a plan for when you will someday need care?
https://www.quora.com/Do-you-think-it-is-our-responsibility-to-take-care-of-our-parents-when-they-get-old
Topic2
The more coffee you drink, the longer you will live (if you're lucky, that is)
http://www.dw.com/en/the-more-coffee-you-drink-the-longer-you-will-live-if-youre-lucky-that-is/a-39626988
An urgent propsal to replace one of the two topics given for tomorrow
- 投稿者：Thomas (2018-03-22 (木) 21:37:37)
Hello dear members and sorry for so short notice.
I don't want to make myself sound like a devil's advocate or
anything else but I'm eager to suggest to swap one of the two
topics for the discussion tomorrow prepared by Saya-san for
another one which I believe might lead us to much more exciting
session.
Not to mention, there are so many issues which are going on and
running around, particularly today in our country.
Some are very serious and others are much contraversial.
≪my proposal≫
One of which I'm suggesting here as an interesting topic for all
of us is the following article.
(Alternative Topic)
☛ https://www.japantimes.co.jp/opinion/2018/03/21/editorials/false-perceptions-cloud-fukushima/#.WrOch0xuKow
(False perceptions cloud Fukushima from Japan Times on Mar.21 2018)
Please read and check it!
This topic can be a very serious theme but I'm sure will lead us
to a more exciting session and I think we must repeatedly try to
learn how to fabricate and express our own opinions in the meeting
or at least rethink, reconsider what kind of problems are lying
behind the issue and deepen, cultivate our insight at the same time.
In this respect we don't care no matter how awkward or clumsy our
English is but we try to avoid just using "Bla-Bla-Bla English".
What important for us is that we want to pursue or aim to level up
our discussion skill in English.
Am I right?
Thank you all in advance.
以上、明日の学習会の緊急提案です！
よろしく！
The topics for 3/23
- 投稿者：Saya (2018-03-21 (水) 00:52:31)
1. The very basic rules: Do not work with people you feel you do not with them
https://blog.tinect.jp/?p=21617
Key Questions:
- Do you agree with the writer's opinion?
- If you have to work with someone you feel awkward around him/her, how do you deal with the situation?
- Do you think this rule is also applicable to friendships?
2. 10 Hardest Choices Ever (Personality Test)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kt8RupLIkBQ
Let's count your answers (A or B), and find your results at the end. Do you agree with it?
The topics for 3/16
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2018-03-13 (火) 23:55:39)
Topic 1: Pressure from above possibly behind Moritomo document alterations, former Finance Ministry official says
Key Questions
Do you think Finance Ministry officials altered the documents under the spirit of sontaku— surmising the wishes of particular politicians?
Who should take the blame for the scandal other than Mr. Sagawa?
Do you think Aso should resign?
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2018/03/13/national/politics-diplomacy/pressure-possibly-behind-moritomo-document-alterations-former-finance-bureau-official-says/#.Wqfe8kxuJPZ
Topic 2: Why a Criticism Is Better Than a Compliment?
Key Questions:
Do you believe that criticism is better than compliments.?
Do you think that we would rather be ruined by praise than saved by criticism.
Have you ever criticized a person of something?
https://www.lifehack.org/656171/why-criticism-is-better-than-compliment
The topics for 3/9
- 投稿者：Tom (2018-03-07 (水) 22:52:01)
Agenda 1. Rise of Drone
Key question: How do you think these “unmanned aerial vehicles” are helping or hindering our lives?
Source: BBC Learning English-6 minute English
Please listen in advance.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english/ep-180215
Agenda 2. The power of fashion
Key question: What do you usually think when you choose your clothes in the morning? Do they encourage you?
Source: TED Talk
Please listen in advance.
https://www.ted.com/talks/kaustav_dey_how_fashion_helps_us_express_who_we_are_and_what_we_stand_for/details
The topics for 3/2
- 投稿者：Saya (2018-02-25 (日) 23:09:00)
1. 13 Psychology Tricks That Work On Anybody
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSvxuekIVuk
Key Questions:
- Which trick has impressed you the most?
- Do you know any other ones?
- Have you ever used these tricks to improve the relationships with other people? Did it work?
2. From start to finish, Pyeongchang Olympics entertained and showcased splendid collection of global athletes
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2018/02/25/olympics/winter-olympics/start-finish-olympics-entertained/#.WpK_OejFKUk
Key Questions:
- What is the most impressive/memorable thing in Pyeongchang Olympics?
- If you were the family or friend of Olympic athletes, what kind of messages do you want to give them after they come back to Japan?
- Do you think the joint uniform and marching together have any positive/negative effects on the players of "Team Korea"?
The topics for 2/23
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2018-02-21 (水) 03:03:42)
Topic 1 : Differences Between Interesting People And Boring People
https://www.elitedaily.com/life/motivation/10-differences-interesting-people-boring-people
Key Questions
1 Do you think you are an interesting person or a boring person?
2 Have you ever been told that you are an interesting person?
3 Do you agree with the following differences?
Interesting people like to have conversations; boring people like to avoid them
Boring people are those that enjoy too much comfort.
Interesting people are well-informed.
Interesting people have a hunger for life; boring people are content with frozen dinner.
Interesting people have several hobbies; boring people have a hobby.
Topic 2: How To Boost Productivity During Your Commute
https://www.forbes.com/sites/sujanpatel/2015/01/21/how-to-boost-productivity-during-your-commute/
What do you do to take advantage of your commute? Share your productivity habits with us.
The topics for 2/16
- 投稿者：Tom (2018-02-14 (水) 12:10:56)
Agenda 1: A simple way to break a bad habit
https://www.ted.com/talks/judson_brewer_a_simple_way_to_break_a_bad_habit
Key Questions
1. What are the bad habits you have?
2. Listen to this speech. Do you think the method the speaker mentions will make a difference in your case?
Agenda 2: Super Bowl 2018 commercials
https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/super-bowl-2018-commercials-heres-how-you-can-watch-these-leaked-tv-ads/
Key Questions:
1. Which commercials do you like? And why?
2. How the companies give a new twist to their commercials to attract a public audience?
3. Let's see the commercials of products/companies which are also familiar in Japan. Do you find any similarity or difference between US one and Japanese one? (e.g. Amazon, M&M's, Lexus, Febreze, Coca-Cola, etc.) Which one is catchier in your opinion?
The topics for Feb 9 are "givers and takers" and "3D printing".
- 投稿者：Saya (2018-02-04 (日) 21:32:12)
Let's talk about the following topics from TED.
1. Are you a giver or a taker?
https://www.ted.com/talks/adam_grant_are_you_a_giver_or_a_taker
Questions:
- Are you a giver, a taker or a matcher? Why do you think so?
- Regarding givers, what makes the difference between worst and best performers?
- Do you have any friends or colleagues who have positive/negative effects on others as givers/takers?
2. What's next in 3D printing
https://www.ted.com/talks/avi_reichental_what_s_next_in_3d_printing
Questions:
- What do you want to make with 3D printers?
- How will 3D printing change our life? (What room in our houses will 3D printing fit in?)
- What kind of potential risks does 3D printing contain?
The topic for Feb 2 is "Komuro Tetsuya"
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2018-01-30 (火) 22:39:30)
He should not have called a press conference？
He should not have mentioned his wife at the press conference?
Do you think his "affairs" is NO ONE'S business but his and Keiko's
Do you suspect he'll be back to the shobiz world soon enough.
What do you think about his retirement?
What do you think about recent trends in the reporting of gossip?
WEBSITE https://www.japantimes.co.jp/life/2018/01/29/language/lets-discuss-tetsuya-komuros-retirement/#.WnBsNUxuJu0
The topic for 1/26 is, "Plan your days.”
- 投稿者：Tom (2018-01-23 (火) 19:27:05)
This topic was going to be discussed on 1/12, but we couldn’t have a session because there were few participants at the advanced table.
So I’m going to pick it up again!
To get the article, please visit
http://www.bbc.com/capital/story/20170823-how-the-busiest-people-plan-their-days
Key questions
1. What do you learn from the article?
2. Is there any tips you have to stay focused on your work?
3. Lastly, let’s consider and share how to manage your time in order to make 2018 satisfying.
The topic of Jan 19 is #MeToo movements
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2018-01-15 (月) 21:20:52)
ハリウッドの大物プロデューサー、ワインスタイン氏へのセクハラ告発に端を発し、被害を受けた人たちが声をあげる「#MeToo」キャンペーンが2017年、世界中で大きなうねりを生み出しました。
ところが驚いたことにフランス人女優、カトリーヌ・ドヌーヴさんらフランス人女性100人がセクハラなどの性暴力を告発する「#MeToo」のムーブメントは行き過ぎで「全体主義の風潮を作り出している」と批判する書簡を1月9日、ル・モンド紙に寄稿したのです。
こうした動きを「魔女狩り」として、男性を"擁護"したドヌーヴさんらの書簡。「レイプは犯罪だが、口説くのは違う」と主張し「男性たちは制裁を受け、辞職を迫られている。彼らがやった悪事といえば、膝を触ったり、キスを迫ったり、仕事がらみの食事の場で性的関係を求めたり、好意を持っていない女性に性的なニュアンスのメッセージを送ったりといったことでしかない」と記したのです。超有名女優の声明は、世界に衝撃を与えています。
Do you agree with the #MeToo movements? Why or why not?
Do you agree with Catherine Deneuve? Why or why not?
The topic for 1/12 is, "Plan your days.”
- 投稿者：Tom (2018-01-10 (水) 01:58:06)
To get the article, please visit
http://www.bbc.com/capital/story/20170823-how-the-busiest-people-plan-their-days
Key questions
1. What do you learn from the article?
2. Is there any tips you have to stay focused on your work?
3. Lastly, let’s consider and share how to manage your time in order to make 2018 satisfying.
We apologise the facilitators are absent on 1/12.
Please read materials handed out at first, and then start to discuss.
The 9 topics for Jan 5th are listed below
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2018-01-03 (水) 18:11:30)
What is/are your 2017 New Year’s resolution(s)?
Do you feel you were successful in achieving your resolution?
What will be your New Year's resolution for 2018?
Do you think you were able to improve yourself last year?
What is the most memorable thing which happened to you last year?
What is the most regrettable thing last year?
What do you think was the best movie of all the movies you watched last year?
when was the happiest time last year for you?
Do you think your life style will change this year?
The topic for 12/22 is, "Definition of happiness in Japan."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-12-16 (土) 14:52:28)
This topic was going to be discussed on 11/24, but we couldn’t have a session because there were no participant at the advanced table.
So I’m going to pick it up again!
To get the article, please visit
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2017/08/26/national/media-national/definition-happiness-japan-remains-mystery/#.WhF2ovNcWEf
Key questions
1. Why do you think you feel you’re happy 2017-12-16 (土) 14:52:28
2. In this article, the author mentioned “social relations” as a crucial factor to feel happy. What do you think is the essential thing of happiness? Let’s share your own opinions!
The topic for Dec 15 is " FOMO”
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-12-12 (火) 22:39:35)
You hear about FOMO a lot these days. In fact, the word was added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2013.
What does it really mean? A recent study on the subject defined it as:
…‘‘the uneasy and sometimes all-consuming feeling that you’re missing out – that your peers are doing, in the know about, or in possession of more or something better than you’’. Under this framing of FoMO, nearly three quarters of young adults reported they experienced the phenomenon.
It’s certainly not a good thing. And it leads you to check social media again and again and again so you don’t feel out of the loop. So you know you’re doing okay. So you don’t feel left out.
「自分が知らない間に、仲間が集まって楽しい飲み会が開催されているかもしれない」、「私だけが重大なニュースを見逃してしまうかもしれない」、「みんなは幸せなのに不幸なのは私だけ？」といった不安に駆り立てられて、常にスマホでSNSをチェックしていたら、それは「FOMO依存症」に陥る一つの兆候かもしれない。
WEBSITE http://www.lifehack.org/633908/the-fear-of-missing-out-has-been-around-forever-even-without-social-media
The topic for Dec 1 is "“The 10 Differences Between Interesting People and Boring People”
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-11-29 (水) 08:18:34)
I wonder what’the definition of an interesting person or boring person.
I’ve never met a boring person. All the people I ever met are interesting one way or the other.
But sometimes I think I might be a boring person. Once in a while I wonder if the person I’m taking to is getting bored by what I’m talking about.
Do you agree or disagree with the “The 10 Differences Between Interesting People and Boring People”?
Let’s share your thought about what makes a person interesting or boring.
https://www.elitedaily.com/life/motivation/10-differences-interesting-people-boring-people
The topic for 11/24 is, "Definition of happiness in Japan."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-11-19 (日) 21:28:42)
To get the article, please visit
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2017/08/26/national/media-national/definition-happiness-japan-remains-mystery/#.WhF2ovNcWEf
Key questions
1. Why do you think you feel you’re happy 2017-11-19 (日) 21:28:42
2. In this article, the author mentioned “social relations” as a crucial factor to feel happy. What do you think is the essential thing of happiness? Let’s share your own opinions!
The topic for 11/17 is, "Legal Adulthood."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-11-12 (日) 21:56:53)
To get the article, please visit
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2017/11/08/national/social-issues/diet-take-lowering-age-legal-adulthood-january-session/#.Wgg6vfNcWEe
The topic of Nov 10th is "How to Stay Together When You Are Different From Each Other"
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-10-29 (日) 17:18:33)
We are going to talk about below things
Unresolved small differences can cause huge problems.
Most people tackle differences in a way that makes their love lives worse.
Some compromise more than their partner does.
Some sacrifice way more than they should.
Compromise only when it makes both happier and better.
Let differences pull you closer to your partner.
WEBSITE https://www.lifehack.org/634712/how-to-stay-together-when-you-are-different-from-each-other
The topic for 10/20 is, "Human’s Irrationality."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-10-17 (火) 12:56:42)
To get the article, please visit
http://www.bbc.com/capital/story/20171013-the-understated-importance-of-embracing-our-irrational-side
The topic for Oct 13th is "It's time to talk about Trump's Mental Health "
- 投稿者：tokunaga (2017-10-10 (火) 22:57:50)
IS DONALD TRUMP psychologically unstable and unfit for office? Does the president of the United States have a dangerous mental illness of some shape or form?
It is uncomfortable to talk about the president’s mental health. But at this point it is irresponsible not to.
A lot of presidents were narcissists, egomaniacs, incited violence, suffered from conditions such as depression. People didn’t question their fitness for office, did they?
How worried should we be that Trump has access to the nuclear codes?
His mental impairment goes deeper and is far more pervasive than people can understand when they are untrained in psychological matters. And that the worst is yet to come.
WEBSITE:
The topic for Oct 13th is "It's time to talk about Trump's Mental Health "
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-10-10 (火) 22:52:07)
IS DONALD TRUMP psychologically unstable and unfit for office? Does the president of the United States have a dangerous mental illness of some shape or form?
It is uncomfortable to talk about the president’s mental health. But at this point it is irresponsible not to.
A lot of presidents were narcissists, egomaniacs, incited violence, suffered from conditions such as depression. People didn’t question their fitness for office, did they?
How worried should we be that Trump has access to the nuclear codes?
His mental impairment goes deeper and is far more pervasive than people can understand when they are untrained in psychological matters. And that the worst is yet to come.
T奥永Tおく
WEBSITE:https: //www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/its-time-to-talk-about-trumps-mental-health/2017/08/21/40d86eac-86ac-11e7-961d-2f373b3977ee_story.html?tid=a_inl&utm_term=.2686ee8226d9
The topic for 10/6 is, "Nonverbal communication."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-10-04 (水) 12:28:56)
To get the article, please visit
https://www.learning-mind.com/nonverbal-communication-skills/
The topic for 9/15 is, "Nonverbal communication."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-10-04 (水) 01:36:55)
To get the article, please visit
https://www.learning-mind.com/nonverbal-communication-skills/
Topic of Spt 29 is "Can Dressing For Success Actually Lead To Success? Tips For A ‘Smart Casual’ Office"
- 投稿者：徳永 和信 (2017-09-27 (水) 01:16:29)
What you wear at work can have an impact on your performance.
Hard to believe, right? Think about it: surely what you’re wearing can’t actually improve your work…or can it?
In an era when even CEOs are no longer shackled to conservative dark suits (think Steve Jobs’ turtleneck and sneakers, Mark Zuckerberg’s hoodie and Richard Branson’s leather jacket), why should any of us bother dressing up for work?
Hard to believe, right? Think about it: surely what you’re wearing can’t actually improve your work…or can it?
In an ideal world, we would be judged on our merits, and our outfits would make no difference to people’s perception or our ability to succeed in the workplace. As it turns out, this is far from the truth!
https://www.careerfaqs.com.au/news/news-and-views/can-dressing-for-success-actually-make-you-more-successful-what-to-wear-in-a-smart-casual-office
The topic for 9/27 is, "Japanese Longevity."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-09-20 (水) 02:15:26)
This topic is provided by Slava!!
To get the article, please visit
http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/the-secret-of-long-life-in-japan/article18591005.ece/amp/
The topic for 9/15 is, "Bicycle."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-09-11 (月) 23:08:29)
To get the article, please visit
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2017/sep/10/the-guardian-view-on-dangerous-cycling-justice-is-not-about-headlines?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
Here are key questions.
1. How dangerous do you think is Japanese cyclists and what makes them cause of accidents?
2. What do you think is different between Japanese cyclists and foreign ones in circumstances around them or their behaviour?
3. Do you think there should be any further regulation on dangerous cyclists in Japan or in foreign countries?
The topic for 9/8 is “ Going solo “
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-09-06 (水) 02:25:32)
Do you prefer to travel with friends, relatives, or alone? Why?
Would you feel comfortable taking a solo trip abroad ?
Would you get lonely being abroad without someone for company?
You don’t mind hanging out at a bar or going to a restaurant solo ?
Are you happy to go to the movies alone?
You might feel a bit nervous when you are kicking off a solo trip, but in the end, nothing makes you feel more confident or capable than conquering the world on my own-------do you agree?
When traveling alone it’s nice to have someone to rely on, but it’s particularly satisfying when that someone is you------ do you agree?
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-wandering-mind/201708/how-americans-really-feel-about-solo-travel
The topic for 9/1 is, "Language spoken in 2115."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-08-29 (火) 23:24:36)
To get the article, please visit
http://lingualeo.com/es/jungle/what-the-world-will-speak-in-2115-368589#/page/1
I'll edit and shorten the article above for discussion material.
If you read it in advance, please keep this in your mind.
The topic for 8/25 is, "Make yourself effortlessly charming."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-08-22 (火) 23:07:45)
To get the article, please visit
http://www.bbc.com/capital/story/20170627-the-tricks-to-make-yourself-effortlessly-charming
I'll edit and shorten the article below for the discussion material.
If you read it in advance, keep this in your mind.
The topic of 8/18 is "If You Understand These 5 Rules In Psychology, You Can Live A Much Easier Life"
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-08-16 (水) 05:26:11)
Making a habit of using these psychological rules is crucial to living an easier life and will help you to see the world in a whole new light.
1. People Don’t Care As Much As You Think
2. We Are Constantly Changing Who We Are
3. Stop Comparing Yourself To Others
4. Don’t Assume Your Advice Will Be Listened to.
5. You Can Only Control Your Response . WEBSITE:http://www.lifehack.org/514523/if-you-understand-these-5-rules-in-psychology-you-can-live-a-much-easier-life?ref=content_bottom_related
The topic for 8/4 is, "mindfulness."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-08-03 (木) 22:37:37)
To get the article, please visit http://www.bbc.com/travel/story/20170504-the-japanese-skill-copied-by-the-world
The topic for 7/28 is, "Money."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-07-28 (金) 01:01:11)
Too much sorry but we couldn't make this new announcement until Tuesday.
This topic is provided by Slava!
His comment here:
This one was a nice story with emotion and a lesson, and a good debate I think. It seems to present a solid solution but many people would disagree, especially in Japan I think! (Because so many sacrifice so much for work)
To get the article, please visit https://medium.com/@philip.delvecchio/money-and-the-root-of-all-problems-8f28699d397e
There will be two materials on July 21th meeting.
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-07-18 (火) 22:43:35)
Topic 1 Norway ranked world’s happiest country; Japan places No. 51: U.N.Report A new report shows Norway is the happiest country on Earth, Americans are getting sadder,
Several other Nordic countries dominated the top of the list.
Denmark, Iceland, Switzerland, Finland, Netherlands, Canada, New Zealand, Australia and Sweden rounded out the top 10 countries.
Japan ranked No. 51,
Germany was ranked No. 16, followed by the United Kingdom at No. 19 and France at No. 31.
The United States was 14th in the latest ranking, down from No. 13 last year, and over the years Americans steadily have been rating themselves less happy.
Do you find the ranking convincing? Do you agree with Japan’s No.51 rank Why Japan was ranked so low?
WEBSITE http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2017/03/20/world/social-issues-world/norway-ranked-worlds-happiest-country-japan-places-no-51-u-n-repot/#.WW4MnFKKW8W Topic 2 Envy and Jealous (We don’t use an English article.) Let’s share your thoughts about questions What is the Difference Between Envy and Jealousy? Are you jealous of someone or something?
Ways to Deal with Jealousy
Can you be happy if you can overcome Jealousy?
Who do you envy?
Why do we envy others?
How can a person deal with others' envy?
The topic for 7/14 is, "Fairness vs. Equality."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-07-11 (火) 23:33:02)
This topic is provided by Slava.
Key questions here
1. In what kind of situations do you feel inequality or unfairness?
2. Share the answers to the question No.1 with other participants and what do you think underlies them commonly?
3. When discussing this topic, we get bogged down with the ultimate question "Fairness vs. Equality."
Which do you think is better?
To get the article, please visit
https://www.google.co.jp/amp/s/www.theatlantic.com/amp/article/411784/
On July 7 we don’t use an English article. You can discuss any topics from ７topics below
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-07-04 (火) 02:34:30)
① Does money matter most in life? What matters the most in life, money, name or satisfaction and peace in life?
② Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?
Is there such a thing as love at first sight? In the media and in 'real' life I hear about people getting married after only months of dating and hear phrases being thrown around like "as soon as I saw them I knew". Do you believe in this, or if this has been your experience I would love to hear.
③How many hours of sleep should we be getting?
The average adult sleeps less than seven hours per night. The quality of your sleep directly affects your mental and physical health and the quality of your waking life, including your productivity, emotional balance, brain and heart health, immune system, creativity, vitality, and even your weight. No other activity delivers so many benefits with so
④ What do you do to take advantage of your commute? Share your productivity habits below!
Catch Up on Email
Plan Your Day
Read eBooks or Articles
Check emails and voice messages.
Listen to music or audio books
Mentally prepare for the day.
Create a to-do list
Check in on your social networks
⑤ Bad Ways and Good Ways to End a Relationship
Ending a relationship is always painful.
When relationships come to an end, there is so much emotional pain that it may seem impossible to find a way to ease the suffering. If you’re the one ending the relationship, you may be plagued by guilt and remorse; if you’re the one being left, you’re faced with the misery of rejection.
⑥ Do you think Smartphones have changed your lives?
⑦ How good is your memory? How Sure Are You About Your Memories?
Can you remember what you had for breakfast yesterday? Can you remember the second happiest moment in your life? Can you remember your credit card number? Can you remember what city you were in ten years ago? What about your favorite book ten years ago?
The topic for 6/30 is, "Things that make people dislike you."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-06-27 (火) 21:07:32)
Key questions here
1. Is there any items in the article that you think you have?
2. Which characteristics are there in the person who you like or dislike?
3. Is there any characteristics you have wanted to improve?
To get the article, please visit http://www.standard.co.uk/lifestyle/london-life/13-things-youre-doing-that-make-people-dislike-you-immediately-a3510181.html
The topic for 6/23 is, "Japanese shrinking population."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-06-17 (土) 12:30:29)
This topic is provided by Slava!!
It is generally acknowledged that some of the developed countries are faced with the shrinking population and it could require governments strenuous efforts to seek radical solutions.
For the time being, there seems to be no remedy to improve the situation although many researchers and politicians have thrashed out the ramification that probably hinders their economies from growing.
In the article below, some potential solutions are suggested whereas those have been thought innovative for Japanese society.
When reading this, what do you come up with?
Now let's discuss what we are forced to face up!!
Key questions here>>
1. What do you think is the most critical problem behind shrinking population?
2. In your opinions, what is the efficacious measure to solve the problem you answer at question No.1?
3. Compared with foreign countries, what can be typical factors in Japan?
To get the article, please visit http://www.japantimes.co.jp/opinion/2015/11/19/commentary/japan-commentary/japans-population-problem/#.WUSdH1BcWEc
There will be two materials on June 16th meeting.
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-06-14 (水) 05:02:54)
You (your group) can choose either one you like and discuss it for 45 minutes or discuss both topics
Topic 1: Do relationships between older women and younger men work?
Unlike U.S. President Donald Trump, whose 23-year jump on his wife has people yawning and rolling their eyes, the age difference between Macron, French President, and his wife is treated as downright scandalous in more puritanical circles.
How do you feel about a woman’s comment saying “Why can’t we marry younger men? I date them all the time,” “It’s normal to see men with younger women. So it’s rather great to see the opposite.”
Can you imagine what it would be like to lead a marriage life with a big age gap?
Does age play any important part in your married life?
What is the right age difference between you and your spouse?
Does too much age difference really make your relationships stressful?
WEBSITE: http://www.nicolemccance.com/item/do-relationships-between-older-women-and-younger-men-work.html
Topic 2: Why-How Do They Still Love Trump?
After all the lies, contradictions, hypocrisy, flip-flops, gaffes, unforced errors, self-pity, insults, provocations, threats, bullying, betrayals, disappointments, scapegoating, exploitation, nepotism, and corruption, why is Trump still beloved by 35% of the country?
WEBSITE: https://www.counterpunch.org/2017/05/19/92810/
The topic for 6/9 is, "Better arguments with your partner."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-06-07 (水) 22:51:53)
In this discussion, you can talk about not only your partner but ex-boyfriends/girlfriends or your close friends.
Key questions
1. When you and your partner are squabbling, how do you behave?
2. Can you become honest and say to your partner heartfelt words this article suggests when you are being upset?
3. Is there any helpful tip or episode you share with other participants in this discussion?
To get the article, visit http://m.huffpost.com/us/entry/us_59361f91e4b033940169cd8a?utm_hp_ref=relationships
The topid of 6/2 is "Summer festivals around the world"
- 投稿者：Kaz (2017-05-27 (土) 21:26:34)
Thank you for comming BBQ party on 5/28. We are now struggling with new idea for next event. Cherry blossom and a large amount of meet can collect many people. Then, supposed that you are an organizer of some events and have and order from your boss to let people enjoy, what plan do you offer?
On the other hand, what's the best memory of exciting event in your life? Music concert, school and business training trip, Christmas party, Halloween party, any events have their own attractive point to gather people in one place. This question also stimulates the exchange of this discussion.
Here's article about summer festival around the world. Let's look into other culture too!
https://www.internationalteflacademy.com/blog/bid/116548/Great-Summer-Festivals-Celebrations-Around-the-World
The topic of 5/26 is " What are dreams? Why do we dream?"
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-05-23 (火) 23:08:21)
It seems that even though science has come up with an answer for nearly everything, it still can’t account for dreams. What are dreams? Why do we even have dreams? Where do dreams come from? These are all questions that are asked all of the time but still have no concrete answers. Let's share your thoughts about the questions below. What was the worst dream you have ever had?
What are the best dreams you ever had?
Have you ever had a recurring dream? Have you ever had a dream that involved someone you know and when you told them, they said they had the same dream that night? Have you ever had such a realistic dream that you wake up bitterly disappointed when you realise it was mere fiction? What was it/how did you feel when you woke up?
What does it mean when you dream about someone?
WEBSITE https://psychcentral.com/lib/9-common-questions-about-dreams-answered/
The topic of 5/19 is "Exercise in your life."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-05-16 (火) 21:14:29)
Do you spare time to exercise every day or week?
It is generally believed it has become more difficult that you squeeze a small amount of time in daily schedule to enjoy your hobbies or a little fitness mainly on weekdays.
However, some universities in U.K. warn that being seated for a long time should be detrimental to your health and increase the potential risk to suffer from vitally dangerous diseases like diabetes.
So how do we tackle this issue?
In this article below, it is clearly suggested that small efforts to exercise or some tips used in business situations make big differences if they are continued constantly.
Let's share our views about daily exercise aimed to keep our health as well as get refreshment!
The key questions about the coming discussion
1. Which form of exercise do you do?
2. How does the exercise you do contribute to your health?
3. Is there anything else you care about to maintain your health?(e.g. supplements, adequate sleep)
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/health-family/fitness/walk-run-or-cycle-which-is-the-best-exercise-1.3065072?mode=amp
The topic of 5/12 is "Education and Trainning".
- 投稿者：Kaz (2017-05-08 (月) 23:21:52)
Education at school and training at workplace have in common and difference. Let's discuss them.
Teacher always wish learners apply what they learned to benefit. But as is often said that children and subordinate doesn't work as you wish. Imagine you are the teacher and lead children to best direction. Or lead your subordinate where you wish.
Share likely troublesome situation and good resolution too.
http://www.teachthought.com/learning/10-characteristics-of-a-highly-effective-learning-environment/
http://m.ecmweb.com/content/ten-tips-effective-training-program
Those articles are little a bit difficult so I'll bring easier documents with minor improvements.
The topic of April 28 is " Does Speaking A Foreign Language Change Your Personality?
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-04-25 (火) 23:33:20)
It has been often said that “ Your personality changes when you speak a foreign language”
“ People who are actually fluent in two languages also feel their personality shifting as they switch between languages.”
linguists asked over a thousand bilinguals whether they “feel like a different person" when they speak different language . Nearly two-thirds said they did.
Speaking a foreign language gives you a new perspective and allows you to see the world from another point of view.
I asked myself if my personality changes when speaking English. The answer, I think, is No. I don’t feel like an American when speaking English.
But I know someone whose personality changes when speaking English. He becomes more aggressive, more assertive, harsh, and offensive. He speaks in a belligerent tone. I asked him “ Why are you so aggressive when speaking English? You seem to be a different person speaking a different language. “ He said “ I don’t know why. But speaking English subconsciously makes me more assertive and aggressive.”
Do you think you have different personality when you speak different language?
WEBSITE
https://www.babbel.com/en/magazine/how-bilingualism-almost-drove-me-crazy
The topic of 4/21 is "Performance Review Season(業績考課の季節). "
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-04-18 (火) 22:57:55)
Yes, It’s Performance Review Season(業績考課の季節).
Have you already had your performance appraisal conversation with your boss?
Or have you ,as a manager, gave positive or negative feedback to employees who work for you?
I guarantee you that everyone dreads this kind of performance review session.
People are awful at both giving and getting criticism.
So what do you do if your boss gives you a bad review?
Do you think performance reviews are useful?
Why are performance reviews important?
Many companies in the US have done away with the yearly check-in and numerical rankings and switched to giving employees more regular feedback, which employees say they want. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-01-13/the-cure-for-the-annual-performance-review-is-more-reviews
The topic of 4/14 is "Japanese uniqueness."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-04-11 (火) 22:18:45)
It could be argued that a growing number of foreigners have been captivated by the uniqueness of Japanese culture and urged to visit for a variety of reasons.
However, it might be rather difficult for Japanese to recognise what makes Japan outstanding because Japanese culture has been deeply embedded in our lives.
In this article below, some aspects of Japanese "uniqueness" are discussed mentioning recent lively news, which include from public policy to political problems.
What do you think is the attractiveness of Japan?
How do you introduce Japanese culture to your foreign friends?
Do you like Japan?
Let's discuss what makes Japan Japan!!
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2017/04/01/national/media-national/anything-makes-japan-unique/#.WOzKmL1cWEf
The topic of 4/7 is "People aged 40-59 are least happy and most anxious. "
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-04-05 (水) 00:14:17)
Statisticians analysed personal wellbeing data for more than 300,000 adults found that happiness and life satisfaction plummeted among respondents aged 35 and over. People with the highest levels of life satisfaction were aged 70-74, followed closely by 65-69-year-olds and 16-19-year-olds.
Happiness followed a similar pattern, with respondents aged 40-59 generally reporting low levels of happiness, and 50-54-year-olds the least happy of all. Those aged 65-74 were the happiest and people aged 16 to 19 also reported good levels of happiness. The report suggests that the multiplying responsibilities of middle age could be taking a toll on people, with many facing the twin pressures of looking after young children and ageing parents at the same time. I asked myself if I am happier than I have ever been. Do I feel more content than at any other point in my life?
Do you think you are now happier than you have ever been? Or do you think you’ll be happier in the near future than 2017-04-05 (水) 00:14:17
Strangely according to other survey the peak age of happiness is 53.
WEBSITE https://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/feb/02/middle-aged-people-least-happy-most-anxious-ons-wellbeing-report
The topic of 3/31 is "Smoking Ban."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-03-29 (水) 08:25:24)
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
On March 24 you can talk about a casual topic and a serious/political topic.
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-03-21 (火) 21:43:44)
You can choose just one topic or discuss both of the articles.
Topic One
Now psychologists have found evidence of what many already believe that men need alcohol to smooth the way in social situations. Unlike women, who are capable of enjoying themselves and bonding with others while sober, men do better with a drink to loosen up in a group setting.
Researchers found males are more likely to smile and talk loudly after a few rounds. While many men are reluctant to show emotion, alcohol’s influence on the brain makes them more willing to share their feelings.
Do you agree that women are perfectly capable of enjoying themselves and bonding with others sober, and men need alcohol to get to the same point.
Topic Two
School of shock
An ultranationalist kindergarten in Japan
Embarrassingly, it has links to the prime minister.Some people say that such blatant indoctrination of kindergarten kids like this should be a grave crime and should be instantly stopped.Other people don't see a problem with this school saying that it is natural for them to ask its pupils to pay respect to the Japanese national anthem and flag.
Share your thoughts about this problem.
Go to two websites below
http://www.economist.com/news/asia/21717996-embarrassingly-it-has-links-prime-minister-ultranationalist-kindergarten-japan
http://www.oddnaari.in/life/story/odd-alcohol-women-men-social-situation-party-inhibitions-sober-124985-2017-03-18
The topic of 3/17 is "Healthy Diet."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-03-15 (水) 19:04:20)
It is generally acknowledged that health is the most crucial for every single person to lead a happy life as well as make a business career successfully.
On the contrary, people often lightly eat meals which contain few of nutritious foods because of varying reasons such as lack of time to cook.
Under this contradictory situation, how should we manage to keep our diets well-balanced to retain our physical health from long term perspective?
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
As for the 3/10 article, please go to the website below
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-03-09 (木) 20:17:35)
http://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/six-difference-between-britsh-and-american-english/3063743.html
The topic of 3/10 is " Difference between British English and American English"
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-03-09 (木) 07:24:19)
Which is easier for you to understand/listen to, American English or British English?
Written forms of British and American English (AmE) vary little in their essential features,
But the spoken forms of British English(BrE) vary considerably.
Although spoken American and British English are generally mutually intelligible, there are occasional differences which might cause embarrassment—for example, in American English a rubber is usually interpreted as a condom rather than an eraser.
A public school has opposite meanings in the two countries. In AmE this is a government-owned institution open to all students, supported by public funding. The BrE use of the term is in the context of "private" education, to be educated privately with a tutor.
Do you know AmE equivalents for BrE words listed below.?Biscuit
Bonnet(of a car)
First floor
Football
Garden
Jumper
Lift
Take away(food)
Underground
Zed http://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/six-difference-between-britsh-and-american-english/3063743.html
The topic of 3/3 is "Digital Anxiety."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-03-01 (水) 22:37:21)
Do you use smartphones very often?
Are you reluctant to own smartphones?
I suppose the majority of you will answer "yes" to the first question and some of you may nod in agreement at the other one.
As technology has been developed, smartphones has been becoming indispensable gadgets to survive the modern world where information is flooding everywhere.
However, this prevalence has been raising the ramification called "digital anxiety," which possibly obsesses a large number of people around the globe.
Let's discuss how to use this cutting-edge technology correctly and share your views.
If you want to print out this article in advance, remember that the material distributed before the session will not be the whole article.
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
http://www.bbc.com/capital/story/20170220-cant-unplug-heres-how-to-navigate-your-digital-anxiety
The topic of Feb 24 is" Premium Friday "
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-02-22 (水) 01:12:20)
I wonder how many of you will be able to enjoy “ Premium Friday” which begins on Feb.24.
The scheme, dubbed "Premium Friday", suggests companies make employees go home at 15:00 on the last Friday of the month, starting in February.
In an effort to curb excessive work hours and to spur consumption, the government and business groups will launch the “Premium Friday campaign” on Feb. 24.
Some people are skeptical of the “ Premium Friday”, saying that it won’t work in Japanese working culture.
Companies face higher costs and Japanese workers often feel guilty at leaving their colleagues behind.
It has been often said that Japanese workers worry about letting down their colleagues. They have a strong sense of working as a team.
On the other hand the campaign is promoting commercial opportunities for restaurants, shops, travel companies and other businesses who could benefit, in the hope that firms will see the benefit of increased leisure time for employees.
Question
Do you think the "Premium Friday" practice will work well in japan?
If your company adopts the "Premium Friday" what do you do after leaving the office at 15:00 on the last Friday of the month?
Do you think "Premium Friday" can get people to spend more money ?
Go to two Websites
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2017/01/02/national/bid-curb-long-working-hours-ministry-plans-roll-premium-friday-campaign/#.WKxkshiKW8V
http://the-japan-news.com/news/article/0003488428
The topic of 2/17 is "Climate Fight."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-02-16 (木) 01:11:53)
Climate change is one of the most urgent issues on our modern society although its impact has been ignored by many political leaders to lay the first priority on the economic growth.
On the other hand, there has been various movements to curb the emissions of greenhouse gases or minimise its influence to our mankind society such as the implementation of the Paris agreement last year.
Leonardo DiCaprio, the Hollywood star who won the Oscar award last year, has been involved for years with climate change as an environmental activist and keeps widely addressing this environmental problem with a variety of people or organisations including the United Nations.
This article below shows the details about how DiCaprio has contributed to tackle climate change.
Based on his thoughts, let's discuss the increasing threat of climate change!!
Key questions are here.
1. Is there anything you do to stop climate change?
2. Do you think it is possible that economic growth and policies against climate change can co-exist?
3. What kind of action can you start today to tackle climate change?
If you want to print out this article in advance, remember that the material distributed before the session will not be the whole article.
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2016/dec/17/leonardo-dicaprio-climate-change-united-nations?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
The topic of Feb 10th is "Moral education raises risks."
- 投稿者：久高邦子 (2017-02-05 (日) 19:18:27)
Schools have been facing different types of problems, such as bullying, suicide, refusing to go to school,,,,,,,,
Some say that it’s the influence of change in the society and change of family environment , others say it comes from negligence of teachers and improper care by parents.
But it’s urgent to tackle these problems happening in school so often.
“Moral education” could be one of the solutions?
Anyway, ”Moral education” will be an official subject next year.
What do you think of moral education? <Question>
■ Your child is bullied or bullying, how do you react?
■ How did your patients teach you about morality?
■ Dangers and merits of moral education.
Website http://www.japantimes.co.jp/opinion/2015/02/10/editorials/moral-education-raises-risks/#.WJb5qRiKW8V
The topic of 2/3 is "How to Impress Your Boss at Work Without Sucking Up"
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-02-01 (水) 11:15:43)
Some of you probably don’t care how you can impress your boss.
But most of you must be concerned about how to impress your boss.
Are you recognizing how your performance is being evaluated by your boss ?
This article is trying to share ways to improve the Perception of Your Inputs & Outputs.
How many of them do you agree with?
I don’t agree with the writer of the article that you’d better stay late at the office. “ Don’t leave the office before your bosses leave. Even though this can be extremely inconvenient at times, it shows them that you are working longer hours than they are, and it exudes a sense of respect. Leaving early every day reflects a lack of passion about the position and a lack of desire to take on additional projects.” I’m skeptical of this opinion. How about you? Did you ever feel uncomfortable leaving the office before your boss WEBSITE http://www.moneycrashers.com/how-to-impress-your-boss-without-sucking-up/
The topic of 1/27 is "Donald Trump" again!!
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-01-24 (火) 23:32:40)
At the earlier phase of the election, it was no exaggeration that Donald Trump was the last Republican candidate to be elected as the American President.
Ironically, the US nations voted for him because of their demoralising dissatisfaction with unemployment, immigration policy and globalised economy.
The Trump's presidency has just inaugurated since 20th of January and veered off the pivotal policies of his predecessor Barack Obama.
The new president already proclaimed that he would repeal Obamacare and the withdrawal of Trans-Pacific Partnership has been realised.
Let's discuss the unprecedented US President and his central policies.
If you want to print out this page in advance, keep it in your mind that the material I'll hand out on Friday this week will be a little different from the original one.
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
http://www.bbc.com/news/business-38713326
The topic of 1/20 is "Millions of Japanese Over 35 Still Live With Mom and Dad"
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2017-01-18 (水) 07:38:56)
In Japan, more than 3 million singles aged 35 to 44 still live with their parents, mainly for financial reasons .
Most of them have no choice but to live with their parents.
According to a survey 80 percent of those living with their parents are pessimistic about their prospects for marriage, with some convinced they are “incapable” of getting married and others content to remain single.
Generally speaking most of us want to be independent. Children, if they are mentally and physically healthy, generally separate from their parents as soon as they are financially able to do so.
Do you think the idea of living with your adult children (or your parents), no matter how well you get along, can be disconcerting?
Do you want to live with your parents (or your children) ?
WEBSITE of the article↓
The topic of 1/13 is "Artificial Intelligence."
- 投稿者：Tom (2017-01-11 (水) 21:07:03)
The Guardian says Japanese life insurance company Fukoku has been introducing the AI-based system aiming at increase in its productivity.
Reportedly, this scheme will enable the firm to save a large amount of money, whereas tens of employees are supposed to lose their job in return for the replacement.
It can be said that AI is still on an experimental phase but it's already been arousing public controversy.
Let's discuss AI and foresee the future when the evolutionary technology will prevail in the various situations of humanity.
Get a quick access to the article here!
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/jan/05/japanese-company-replaces-office-workers-artificial-intelligence-ai-fukoku-mutual-life-insurance?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
The topic of 1/6 is " 5 Suprising Life Regrets That You Can Easily Avoid "
- 投稿者：土方良幸 (2017-01-04 (水) 13:08:58)
People are focusing on live daily life desparately to suvive. However when those are close to their death, what do they regret what they should have done during their life? To better live one's life, let's listen carefully to the old senior aged people's voices here.
Questions
What do you think about the 5 things Which advice do you agree to and why?
Which advice do you want to pick up to do for you life?
What other advice do you have?
Website
http://www.inc.com/jessica-stillman/5-surprising-life-regrets-that-you-can-easily-avoid.html
The topic of Dec 22 is " The first impression "
- 投稿者：徳永 和信 (2016-12-20 (火) 20:53:33)
Sometimes, first impressions can be totally wrong — other times they can be right on point.
It might be true that first impressions play a large role in business and private life.
We can’t judge a person on the basis of his/her first impression because it takes time to understand someone but still first impression matters a lot.
First Impressions might count even more than you might think. Let’s share your thoughts about questions below.
1 Do you believe in a first impression you make on other people ?
2 What do you think people think of you when they first meet you? In other words,how do you think you come across?
3 How do you feel about your own first impression?
4 Do you think first impressions let you know who the persons really are or do first impression not show who the person really is?
5 Do you think the first impression is accurate and reliable or not?
WEBSITE
http://www.talentsmart.com/articles/Master-the-Art-of-the-First-Impression-2147446641-p-1.html
The topic of 12/16 is "Christmas."
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-12-15 (木) 08:42:52)
12/17 topic Christmas
Hi, everyone!!
Winter has come and it has been freezing outside these days.
Speaking of the end of the year, we generally have several amusing events such as year-end parties and Christmas!
We are going to talk about Christmas on this coming Friday and let's share your ideas how to celebrate the holy night with your family or friends.
By the way, what do you know about Christmas customs?
The article below shows you the actual history of Christmas and its habits which are derived from interesting facts a few centuries ago.
Below are key questions.
1. Which of the 10 Christmas traditions in the article have you ever experienced and what do you think about them?
2. Compared with foreigners' customs, in which point do you think the Japanese style of Christmas celebration is good / bad?
3. How will you spend this coming Christmas?
Get a quick access to the article here!
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/food-and-drink/finest-christmas/festive-traditions-origins/
This article shows the actual history of Christmas.
The topic of Dec 9 is " 8 Tiny Habits That Will Make You Happier"
- 投稿者：Hijikata (2016-12-05 (月) 20:36:01)
These days mental issues are becoming one of big troubles which might perish human being from the earth in the future.
Thus to keep a good mental condition is crucial to make our daily life easier and to avoid a awful disaster.
Here eight habits that can make a big difference in your life and work.
Q1 Do you agree or not each habit? And why?
2 Which habit do you do for your life?
3 Which one do you want to use?
4 Any other habit do you have and if so what?
Website
http://www.inc.com/lolly-daskal/8-tiny-habits-that-will-make-you-happier.html
The topic of Dec 2nd is " English proverbs"
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-11-30 (水) 03:22:20)
“There are plenty of fish in the sea.” This is the proverb someone of FMEC said to me a few times recently. Honestly I didn’t know the famous proverb until I heard it from him. I found it very useful.
The first time I heard the proverb “The cat’s out of the bag” I didn’t know the meaning.
It's good to know the really common English proverbs because you hear them come up in conversation all the time.
Learning proverbs can also help you to understand the way that people in English-speaking cultures think about the world.
Native English speakers often use them in conversation without even realizing it.
However, we Japanese seldom use an English proverbs in English conversation because it’s difficult to use them as often as NES.
I think we should be more familiar with English proverbs.
How many of the proverbs mentioned in the article have you known?
Can you empathize with the proverb “A man without a woman is like a ship without a sail” and “A woman without a man is like a fish without a bicycle”
WEBSITE
http://www.bbc.com/capital/story/20161117-we-need-proverbs-because-they-reflect-who-we-are
The topic of 11/25 is "Leadership."
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-11-23 (水) 23:20:15)
You may be a leader or working with your leader in various situations such as business or ordinary life.
According to Harvard Business Review, there are several key features of “leadership” which outstanding leaders in business have been seen to be equipped with.
Let’s exchange your views about ideal leadership!!
You may well talk about the leadership in personal life.
Below are key questions.
1. What is the desirable definition of “leader” for you?
2. If you were a leader, what skills or personality would you want to obtain?
3. Is there anyone who you respect and admire as a leader?
If you want to print out this page in advance, keep it in your mind that the material I'll hand out on Friday this week will be a little different from the original one.
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
https://hbr.org/2016/11/the-traits-of-leaders-who-do-things-fast-and-well
The topic of Nov 18th is Donald Trump.
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-11-15 (火) 23:45:36)
Next week we will not be using English material of a newspaper.
You can choose and talk about a few or all topics from the ten topics below about the last week’s U.S. presidential election.
A lot has been talked about the election of Donald Trump. Some of you might be sick and tired of discussing Trump and others might be still willing to say many things about the unexpected result. Let's share your thoughts about these topics.
1. Why were all the predictions and polls so inaccurate/wrong regarding
Donald Trump’s election?
2. Would Bernie Sanders have defeated Donald Trump?
3. What was your first reaction when you heard that Trump is the United States' new president?
4. What kind of first lady will Melania Trump be?
5. What will happen if Trump can’t satisfy his voters’ expectations?
6. Do you think Donald trump will fulfill his campaign promises or was he just saying things to get elected to office?
7. If Donald Trump tried to fulfill all of his campaign promises by any means necessary, what would happen to him and to America?
8. Did Hillary Clinton lose the election because of the FBI reopening her email case?
9. Trump threatened to withdraw U.S. troops from Japan unless the country drastically increased its financial contributions to cover the cost of stationing U.S. troops in Japan. Will he really do that?
10.What are the chances Donald Trump is assassinated once he becomes president?
The topic of 11/11 is "Are native English speakers the world's worst communicators?"
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-11-07 (月) 23:15:04)
Nowadays, there has been a growing number of business conversations, meetings, and conferences with our colleagues who speak English at varying levels.
It is understandable that native English speakers tend to dominate almost all the parts of multinational communications although those who speak English as a second language may well give their constructive opinions which will probably be great contributions.
In this article below, some linguistic professionals and officers working at global companies point out that people speaking English as a mother tongue sometimes become the worst communicators in terms of their deficient awareness to communicate in English under multinational situations.
Let’s exchange your views about…
1. Do you feel any hesitation to give your opinions when you are talking to native English speakers and why?
2. Do you think that native English speakers should improve something when communicating with non-native English speakers?
3. What can you do to facilitate multinational communication?
If you want to print out this page in advance, keep it in your mind that the material I'll hand out on Friday this week will be a little different from the original one.
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
http://www.bbc.com/capital/story/20161028-native-english-speakers-are-the-worlds-worst-communicators
The topic of Nov 4th is "Do your Friends Actually Like You? "
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-11-01 (火) 19:45:34)
“Are Your Friends Really Your Friends? ”
It seems like a stupid question, right? You are probably thinking, of course the people we think of as friends consider us their friend too, but a new study reveals that we are pretty terrible at determining who really likes us. The study finds that only about half of the people we consider to be a friend, actually consider us to be their friend. Stings, doesn’t it?
“People don’t like to hear that the people they think of as friends don’t name them as friends,” said a researcher at M.I.T
People sometimes might mistake just acquaintance for friendship.
As many people say, friendship is difficult to describe.
What do you think is the difference between acquaintances and friends?
D you think it is true that only half your friends actually like you?
Have you ever wondered whether people you consider friends feel the same way about you?
If there is a way to know if the people you think are friends think of you as friend, will you use the way?
Printed materials would be more compact and concise than the Internet article.
WEBSITE
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/07/opinion/sunday/do-your-friends-actually-like-you.html?partner=rss&emc=rss
The topic of 10/28 is "American Presidential Election."
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-10-27 (木) 00:06:01)
A new American president is going to be elected on 8th of November.
It is widely acknowledged that this ongoing residential campaign is rated unprecedented in the USA history and the words of Donald Trump, who is a presidential candidate from Republican Party, has been so controversial that much of his remarks has been catching interests of people all over the world.
As for political discussion, Bernie Sanders, who was a Democratic Presidential nominee against Hillary Clinton, brought out his profound suggestions mainly aimed to Democrats.
His opinions were released by The New York Times and his arguments point out not only the depressing reality about the society of America, but also modern globalized economy which very few parts of people benefit from.
Let’s discuss the excellent and well-organised article as well as the upcoming historical election!!
If you want to print out this page in advance, keep it in your mind that the material I'll hand out on Friday this week will be a little different from the original one.
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/29/opinion/campaign-stops/bernie-sanders-democrats-need-to-wake-up.html
On October 21 you can choose any topics from 6 topics below.
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-10-15 (土) 21:30:45)
次の金曜日（１０月２１日）は英語の記事を使用しません。
下記の６項目のtopicを設けましたので好きなtopicについて話してください。
各グループメンバー全員が１つのトピックを気に入ったら４５分間それを語っても良いし、好きな順に幾つかのtopicをdiscussionしても面白いと思います。
初めての試みですが、メンバーの感想次第では不定期に実施してみたいと思っています。
① An Osaka railway company has been under fire after a train driver made an apologetic in-train announcement to Japanese passengers saying “We have many foreigners on board today. We apologize for causing you inconveniences”
「本日は多数の外国人のお客さまが乗車されており、大変混雑しておりますので、日本人のお客さまにはご不便をおかけしております 」
How do you feel about the incident ?
② Are you satisfied with the current salary and your career situation or feel oppressed?
③ If you're in the situation in which your father, mother, wife/husband, and kids are drowning in front of you, and you're able to save only one, who would you save?
④ Do you like yourself? What is it that you like about yourself?
What do you like least about yourself?
⑤ Should English be taught in kindergarten in japan?
⑥ If you had the chance to become immortal(永遠に死なない), would you do it?
The topic of Oct 14th is about "Infidelity ”
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-10-10 (月) 11:14:19)
For a while I have been ambivalent about picking up on this post, though I have found the article insightful and interesting.
I was wondering if some people might shy away from talking about infidelity. But some girls said to me “ You don’t have to be worried and nervous about it”. So I decided to choose the article.
This article comments on the famous TED Presentation by Esther Perel「Rethinking infidelity ... a talk for anyone who has ever loved」which has been viewed more than 6 million times.
The presentation starts with the following comments:
Why do we cheat? And why do happy people cheat? And when we say "infidelity," what exactly do we mean? Is it a hookup, a love story, paid sex, a chat room, a massage with a happy ending? Why do we think that men cheat out of boredom and fear of intimacy, but women cheat out of loneliness and hunger for intimacy? And is an affair always the end of a relationship?
The presentation ends with this comments:
“I look at affairs from a dual perspective: hurt and betrayal on one side, growth and self-discovery on the other -- what it did to you, and what it meant for me.
Your first marriage is over. Would you like to create a second one together? ”
No wonder the pros and cons of Esther Perel’s arguments are batted back and forth
Do you enthusiastically agree with Esther Perel ? Or respectfully beg to differ?
WEBSITE
http://rindalog.blogspot.com/2015/07/rethinking-infidelity-by-esther-perel.html
This website includes Japanese sentences ,but the printed material will include no Japanese sentences.
The topic of 10/7 is "Working overtime."
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-10-02 (日) 17:06:33)
Reuters reports that Boeing Co, one of the largest airline companies, announced it is cutting down the payment of exempt overtime by 80,000 workers in USA.
According to the article, this attempt aims to enhance affordability and competitiveness of Boeing by means of curbing expenditure, whereas overtime should be paid only in the situation where it is judged and approved by direct managers in advance.
As for Japanese worker, the majority of foreigners may describe them as “much serious officers” and “they work too hard.”
This points out that a large number of Japanese officers feel unconsciously obliged to overwork so as to fulfill their duties.
Let’s exchange our views about…
1. Do you think the Boeing’s effort will achieve its goal?
2. What do you generally think about working over17:06:33
3. Should the Japanese workstyle be changed?
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-boeing-overtime-idUSKCN11K2UT
The topic of 9/30 is "Local vernaculars survive? (English vs. Singlish)"
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-09-24 (土) 14:39:23)
It is generally assumed that there are a number of different types of English spoken at each corner of the globe such as “Singlish.”
This unofficial language may often come in for criticism that it prevents a large number of Singaporean from obtaining a good command of the standardized English.
Of course, sufficient skills of a national language enable them to get proper jobs.
Nevertheless, many researchers suggest local vernaculars consist of diversified characteristics which exemplify intercultural identities and differences.
This article below is too long to finish reading at the first phase of our discussion.
I'm going to compile it and reduce less important sentences.
If you want to print out this page in advance, keep it in your mind that the material I'll hand out on Friday this week will be a little different from the original one.
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
http://www.bbc.com/culture/story/20160919-the-language-the-government-tried-to-suppress
The topic of Sept 23rd is “11 American Behaviors That Are Considered Rude Around the World”
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-09-20 (火) 21:39:52)
Next Friday we are going to talk about 11 behaviors that are widely viewed as acceptable in the United States but considered offensive or rude in other countries.
Those are :
1. TIPPING
2. WHISTLING
3. OPEN-MOUTH LAUGHING
4. SHOWING UP ON TIME
5. GOING SANS-MASK WHILE SICK
6. OPENING A GIFT IN THE PRESENCE OF THE GIVER
7. NOT REJECTING A GIFT
8. DOING PRETTY MUCH ANYTHING LEFT-HANDED
9. BLOWING YOUR NOSE IN PUBLIC
10. CROSSING YOUR FINGERS
11. PUTTING YOUR HANDS IN YOUR POCKET WHILE SPEAKING
The writer of the article says some of these manners might offend Japanese people who are famous for being polite.
I was surprised to know that in most Asian countries, most notably China and India, tearing into a gift in front of the gift giver is poor form. It looks greedy. Actually ,I make it a rule to open a gift in the presence of the gift giver. How about you?
How many of these do you think would be impolite, offensive or impolite in other countries?
WEBSITE
http://mentalfloss.com/article/62421/11-american-behaviors-are-considered-rude-around-world
The topic of 9/16 is "Abdication of Japanese Emperor."
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-09-11 (日) 20:53:06)
Once the Japanese Emperor Akihito externalized his intention to abdicate, discussion about his retirement sprang up throughout Japan and has urged the majority of the politicians to realize his desire.
As soon as it was revealed by some media like NHK, it had been claimed that it is impossibly difficult to pave a path to renounce the throne without any amendment of Constitution or Imperial Household Law.
In contrary, it seems that the interest of the Japanese nation focuses on what is the duty the Emperor has been engaged in.
Furthermore, some statistical survey shows the multitude of Japanese are identifying with the Emperor’s expression, whereas this issue is simultaneously raising another critical discussion: female emperor should be authorized or not?
Let’s discuss this historically significant matter.
I’ll extract last several paragraphs from the article below to reduce the reading-time and make a little arrangement which will help us read more smoothly.
If you learn about the history of legislation of Japanese Emperor, I strongly suggest you peruse the entire essay!
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/community/2016/08/28/issues/japan-fumbles-legal-path-emprexit/#.V9U185iLTIU
The topic of 9/9 was chosen by our native guest John Sinnott
- 投稿者：徳永和信 on behalf of John (2016-09-05 (月) 20:04:04)
In 2010 the president said he wanted to convey his "inner feelings" through his music and inspire Indonesians.
But at that time the president was battling a corruption scandal and falling popularity, and his critics said he should focus on running the country.
On the other hand some of the Indonesian people said they liked the idea of having a president periodically release albums, or at least saw nothing wrong in it. They said ” Instead of trying to solve real problems, maybe he’s trying to entertain the people with music.”
This article was chosen by John Sinnott who is from Ireland.
His comments about it are as follows:
“Hello! I have chosen the article I will use. It is an old article, but the topics are very relevant and I have lots of questions prepared. The topic will be about how politicians should behave, whether politics has become a popularity contest and who has more influence over our lives - politicians or celebrities.”
WEBSITE
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-indonesia-pop-idUSTRE60O1XS20100125
The topic of 9/2 is "Everything you think you know about single people is wrong"
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-08-30 (火) 23:26:13)
The writer of this article said single people have been too often stereotyped and stigmatized. “They are pitied while married people are celebrated. Yet single life can be tremendously meaningful and fulfilling.”
“Research comparing people who have stayed single with those who have stayed married shows that single people have a heightened sense of self-determination and they are more likely to experience ‘a sense of continued growth and development' as a person,” said
“Increasing numbers of people are single because they want to be. Living single allows them to live their best, most authentic, and most meaningful life,” she said.
Professor DePaulo,the writer of the article, said married people were bolstered by the “relentless celebration of marriage and coupling and weddings that I call matrimania”.
“Single people, in contrast, are targets of singlism – the stereotyping, stigmatizing, marginalizing and discrimination against people who are single,” she said.
But academic studies did not support the prevailing idea of “get married, get happier and healthier”.
What do you think about the “single people vs married people"
WEBSITE:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/in-theory/wp/2016/02/08/everything-you-think-you-know-about-single-people-is-wrong/?utm_term=.a013ae50aaf3
The topic of 8/26 is "Junk food and obesity."
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-08-24 (水) 22:23:06)
Today junk food and fizzy drinks purchased at supermarket and local shop is countless and consumed by the majority of children.
The British government tried to launch a radical policy to diminish the number of advertisements which have been released to urge consumers to purchase fast food and sugary drink.
However this article reports that this innovative measure has been foiled and then point out that there will be an enormous rise in the cost spent to tackle this unhealthy lifestyle problem.
In fact, the proportion of children who suffer from obesity is increasing gradually, some Japanese media says.
Let's exchange your views and thrash out this issue!!
If you want to print out this page in advance, keep it in your mind that the material I'll hand out on Friday this week will be a little different from the original one.
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
http://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/aug/20/failure-to-curb-junk-food-ads-parents-public-health-chief?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
The topic of 8/19 is "Number of computer-illiterate young people in Japan increasing
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-08-15 (月) 22:23:43)
「最近の新入社員の中に、パソコンを使えない社員が混じっている」
と、苦笑まじりにこぼす人事部の人がいるそうです。
大学時代を通じてスマホしか使ったことがない新世代（？）の社会人が職場に進出してきたということらしい。
入力はスマホの方が速いというか、パソコンのキーボードは基本的に打てなく、かたくなに「私はスマホしか使えません」といってスマホで下書きしてパソコンに送るような若者も少数派ではあるが、存在する模様。
多くの企業は業務がパソコンをベースに設計されているため、パソコンが使えないと仕事が回らないので少数派と言っても放置はできないようです。
Computer Illiteracyという点ではshockingな数字があります。米国、英国ではteen agers の90%がPCを使用するのに対して日本でのPC使用率ははるかに低いのです（desktopで16%, laptopで30％）。42カ国の調査で学校におけるPC使用率は日本は下から２番目なのです。Global competitionに勝ち抜くためにも家庭、学校でも何らかの対策を講じないとComputer Illiteracyは改善できないのかもしれません。
一方ではこんな意見もあります。「やがて今の新入社員たちが30代になり、製品設計や業務設計の中心世代になると、パソコン中心の業務フロー自体が時代遅れであることに気づくようになるだろう。あんな大きな物体に机を占領させておくよりも、業務はスマホで十分だということに気づき、会社の仕組みは今よりもずっとスマートなものに変化するだろう。」
長い文章をSmartphone LINEで送ってきた若い人に面倒くさいだろうと言ったら「そんなことはないです、すぐに入力しました」
http://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20151025/p2a/00m/0na/005000c
The topic of 8/5 is "Pokemon Go: Who owns the virtual space around your home?"
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-08-02 (火) 22:22:56)
Craze is engulfing the globe now!
“Pokemon Go,” which is astonishingly viral application derived from one of the most popular video game in Japan “Pokemon,” has been released all over the world since last month.
Reportedly the number of the download has skyrocketed phenomenally as soon as it was started to be distributed and it doubled the stock prices of Nintendo, which is the original creator of “Pokemon.”
However, the explosive zeal of the players have raised an unprecedented problem that the insatiable desire of players to capture monsters in virtual world entices them into stepping into others’ premises inadvertently without any permission.
It seems that there is no recognition that a series of their actions are, strictly speaking, illegal.
The Guardian addresses this issue from totally different perspective than Japan and it points out the ramification resulted from the collision between real and virtual world won’t go away in the future.
Let’s share your views about…
・What is the positive and negative aspect of release of “Pokemon Go”?
・If you were a developer of “Pokemon Go,” what would you do to improve this situation or make more success in terms of business?
・Who owns the virtual space around your home?(This is also the theme of the aricle)
This article below is too long to finish reading at the first phase of our discussion.
I'm going to compile it and reduce less important sentences.
If you want to print out this page in advance, keep it in your mind that the material I'll hand out on Friday this week will be a little different from the original one.
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2016/jul/13/pokemon-virtual-space-home
The topic of 7/29 is " How to survive a long-haul flight "
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-07-27 (水) 00:48:51)
We all love to travel, but not many of us enjoy the exhausting long, international flights。
Long-haul flights are a brutal test of endurance. You really have to love to travel to endure them. How do you survive them without going crazy?
Spending half the day in a metal tube with more than 300 strangers isn't ideal, especially coupled with the fact that it can be uncomfortable and flat-out boring.
This article tries to give us10 survival tips for long flights to emerge refreshed, relaxed and ready to start your holiday when you touch down...
However, it's important to realize that what works for one person may not work for you. Everyone's mind and body is different.
Let’s talk about which tips best apply to you.
Are there any methods you have already took advantage of?https://www.skyscanner.net/news/tips/how-to-survive-a-long-haul-flight/
The topic of 7/22 is " Why France has become the NO.1 target for terror"
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-07-20 (水) 06:35:11)
なぜフランスばかりが頻繁に過激派に狙われるのか
記事の中では下記の説明もあります。
The roots of the problem are complex:
France has a history of violence in its encounters with the Middle East and North Africa and a domestic Muslim community with long experiences of discrimination and feelings of exclusion from French society.
植民地支配という過去も、国内イスラム社会の辺縁で国家に対する憎しみを増長させた。
国内のイスラムコミュニティーが必ずしも十分にフランス社会に統合されておらず、
疎外された若い男たちがイスラム過激派によって戦闘員に利用されたと指摘する声も多いです。
オランド大統領はフランスが自由の象徴ゆえに攻撃されたとの認識を示しています。
憎しみの連鎖を断ち切らないと テロは無くならないのでしょうか。
安全だと思われていた場所が次々とテロのターゲットになっています、
「日本人は巻き込まれないだろうと」いう淡い期待も裏切られました。
Is the Islamic State Unstoppable?
Share your thoughts on this matter.
http://time.com/4407810/nice-attack-france-target-jihadists-terrorism/?xid=homepage
このサイトの記事をコンパクトにしたものをprint outしてdiscussionします。
The topic of 7/15 is "Lowered Voting Age"
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-07-12 (火) 22:21:07)
The upper house election which was held on Sunday 10th of July, 2016 was the first national poll where those aged 18 and 19 were allowed to cast ballots.
This election is reportedly claimed to be a historical advancement in terms of Japanese democracy, whereas some point out that it is impossibly difficult for this tiny addition to rectify the Japanese “Silver Democracy.”
The expansion of the voting age has been controversial in some fields and the discussion had lasted for long before the revised electoral legislation was enforced by Japanese government.
In the article below, the opinions of two young Japanese are explained and the reality behind the Japanese election is elucidated demographically.
If you fully peruse it, you will surely find these young voters are of quite logical opinions that the government has been underestimating the thoughts or future benefit of younger generations.
Let’s share your opinions about…
・Do you agree or disagree with those aged 18 and 19 participating in election and why?
・How does lowering voting age affect teenagers?
・How do these new participants contribute to improve our society?
This article below is too long to finish reading at the first phase of our discussion.
I'm going to compile it and reduce less important sentences.
If you want to print out this page in advance, keep it in your mind that the material I'll hand out on Friday this week will be a little different from the original one.
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2016/07/08/national/politics-diplomacy/young-voters-hope-reform-japans-silver-democracy/#.V4TkMriLTIU
The topic of 7/8 " 7 Things That Make Great Bosses Unforgettable "
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-07-03 (日) 12:09:22)
Next Friday let’s talk about “how to have a better relationship with your Manager (or boss)” and “unique qualities of unforgettable bosses people want to work for”.
Your relationship with your manager is a key driver of how well you do at work and how happy you are in your job.
Do you think you have been getting along well with your boss?
How would you describe your boss?
What do you like most about your boss ?
What is it that you don’t like about your boss?
Some bosses are harder to forget than others. While bosses can be unforgettable because they make life miserable, the most memorable bosses stick with us because they change us for the better.
According to the article Google has topped Fortune magazine’s list of the 100 Best Companies to Work For and Google is building bosses that are so good, they’re unforgettable.
Who is the greatest boss you ever worked for? Please share your thoughts.
WEBSITE
http://www.forbes.com/sites/travisbradberry/2015/10/15/7-things-that-make-great-bosses-unforgettable/#43d0d40953b7
The topic of 7/1 is "Brexit; UK has voted to LEAVE the EU."
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-06-27 (月) 22:30:06)
The UK's historical referendum showed the "Brexit" finally became real.
Huge surprise struck the world last Friday.
A multitude of media have been warning that the economic damage of UK's leaving the EU might be catastrophic not only to EU countries but to the globe.
UK's Prime Minister David Cameron made an emotional speech as soon as he became determined to step down.
It is safe to say that we are faced with the challenging situation, yet the will of British people must be respected.
Let's share your opinions about...
・If you were a Briton, would you be for or against Brexit and why?
・What will happen in the future because of Brexit?
・How much will Brexit influence Japan?
Allan is going to join the advanced course this coming Friday, who is from England and supported for "remain".
His presence will surely make our discussion profoundly interesting.
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
http://www.theguardian.com/politics/economics-blog/2016/jun/24/the-day-brexit-pushed-the-markets-into-freefall
＊For your preparation, I have attached some informative articles here.
You can see lots of opinions about a variety of issues from both perspectives.
http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-eu-referendum-36027205
Here is “all you need to know.”
http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-32810887
Other articles which may supplement your self-study about Brexit.
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/jun/24/eu-referendum-working-class-revolt-grieve?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
The topic of 6/24 is "Anxiety."
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-06-22 (水) 02:08:39)
Are you an anxious person?
How do you usually deal with your anxiety?
Anxiety is one of the most essential things to our everyday lives and every human inherently has it.
It is undeniable that anxiety often enables us to become wisely determined in the situations where you are required reasonable criteria.
However, it is no exaggeration to say that there are many people who hold in their mind excessive anxiety that might agonise themselves habitually.
Hugely anxious people are likely to be encouraged or consoled by those who are close to them, although these behaviours sometimes aggravates their consistent tendencies to hold much concern deep in their minds.
Let’s share your opinions about…
・In what kind of situation do you feel anxious?
・When you become excessively anxious, how do you calm down?
・What do you think is the best way to console people who are obsessed by anxiety?
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
http://www.learning-mind.com/anxiety-disorders-hidden-powers/
The topic of 6/17 is " Are You Assertive Enough? Here's 25 Ways to Tell "
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-06-12 (日) 19:31:43)
Do you think you are assertive enough?
日本でもそうですが特にアメリカではAssertiveness〔自分の意見や要求を正当かつ誠実に自己主張すること〕は プライベートでもビジネスでも重要視されていますね。” How to be assertive without becoming aggressive?” 等の投稿が無数にあります。一見自己主張が得意なように見えても、バランスよく、建設的にassertiveになるのは難しいようです。 本当はYES(or NO)と言いたいけどNO(or YES)と言ったり、言いたいことを押し殺して行動するのはアメリカ人も同じということでしょうね。この問題で多くの ” How to” 記事を読んでそんな印象を持ちました。 その中でAssertiveness Inventory(自己主張度合いを測るリスト)を扱った面白い記事がありました。こんな場合assertiveになれるか？という２５の質問形式です。
例えば “If the food served to you in a restaurant isn’t to your satisfaction, would you bring it to the waitperson’s attention? ” _
又は “ If a close and respected friend or relative were annoying you, would you find a way of communicating your annoyance to them? “
“Yes,” が多いほど assertive capabilitiesがあるとのこと。
私はYes は少なかっですね、遠慮がちな人生を送っているんでしょうか？
websiteの記事はちょっと長いので この質問の答えをあらかじめ用意するだけでも面白いと思います。
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/evolution-the-self/201606/are-you-assertive-enough-heres-25-ways-tell
記事をコンパクトにした印刷用マテリアルはダウンロードボタンをクリックしてください
The topic of 6/10 is "To be a more complete Japanese speaker."
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-06-08 (水) 01:57:03)
Many reports says there is a gradual rise in the number of foreigners who visit Japan for sightseeing or business.
In accordance with the spreading globalisation, the opportunities of communication with other-language speakers have been increased steadily and additionally foreign languages tend to be more interested by enthusiastic learners.
However, we Japanese often find some striking differences between Japanese and English, and vice versa.
At the coming discussion, the agenda is difference between them found by English speakers, followed by "how to be a more complete Japanese speaker."
I guess many of us don't know exactly what are the difficulties that exist in Japanese study by foreigners.
This talking will be even more curious if some of our foreign guests participate in the advanced course this week.
This article below is too long to finish reading at the first phase of our discussion.
I'm going to compile it and reduce less important sentences.
If you want to print out this page in advance, keep it in your mind that the material I'll hand out on Friday this week will be a little different from the original one.
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/life/2016/05/09/language/complete-japanese-speaker-leave-sentences-incomplete/#.V1b0eZouWnP
The topic of 6/3 is "Obama visit highlighted differences in Japan and U.S. over ‘an apology’"
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-06-01 (水) 07:16:52)
オバマ大統領の広島訪問に際しては“apology”の言葉は聞かれないだろうというのは当初から予測されていましたから、特別失望感もなく、むしろオバマの真摯な態度が好感を持って受け止められたようです。
記事のタイトルにある通り、日米には「謝罪」に関しての対応に様々な差がありますね 「謝る日本人。謝らないアメリカ人」というステレオタイプ的な表現は時代遅れだとしても、文化的相違はまだ存在していると思います。『アメリカでは謝ること、「I’m sorry」の一言は重い。謝る＝責任を認めることになるので、謝る前にまず弁解し。なぜそのような行動をとったのか、その意図について語ることが多い。また、すぐに謝るのは「弱い人間」として見られることもある。したがって、謝る前に必ず自分の行動についての説明が必要になる」と評論家たちはよく言いますが、 個人的な付き合いに限って言えば「そんなことはないだろう、日本人と同じだろう」と思うこともあります。
国家レベルと個人レベルでは謝罪文化は異なるのでしょうね。
我々日本人は「スミマセン」という言葉を1日平均何回言うのでしょう。とっさに出てしまうこの言葉、アメリカ人から見たらどう映るのでしょう。WEBSITEはこちらです
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2016/05/30/national/politics-diplomacy/obama-visit-highlighted-differences-japan-u-s-apology/#.V04L01cvHCF
The topic of 5/27 is "Morning Routine"
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-05-24 (火) 22:12:44)
Do you have any morning routine?
Do you usually keep early hours or stay up late?
There are certainly some assumptions that short time between when you get up and when you get to your office can be taken advantage of to squeeze in your activity like physical exertion or self-study.
Time is undoubtedly the most valuable resource we have, however a few amount of time on the morning can be easily wasted.
In contrast, there is also the fact that some people manage to make the most of the intervals of tens of minutes to revitalise their bodies and then get a vibrant start of their work.
Let's talk about your morning routine and share your opinions to enhance the quantity of your invaluable time in your lives!
This article below is too long to finish reading at the first phase of our discussion.
I'm going to compile it and reduce less important sentences.
If you want to print out this page in advance, keep it in your mind that the material I'll hand out next Friday will be a little different from the original one.
Click below to get a quick access to the article!!
http://www.bbc.com/capital/story/20160516-can-a-morning-routine-make-you-better-at-your-job
The topic of 5/20 is "Bare Necessities of Life"
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-05-14 (土) 15:09:17)
What are the top 3 bare necessities of life for you?
Some are probably sure they can't live without good relationships with their friends, boyfriend/girlfriend or husband/wife, while others say technical devices are definitely indispensable for contemporary life.
Nowadays we all have been incessantly surrounded by countless amount of things so that it is becoming more and more difficult to define what is the most important...no, it's impossible.
In this article below, the result of a statistical survey features the list of the top 20 bare necessities of life among Britons aged between 18 and 65.
Needless to say, there is no particularly correct answer about this topic although I believe that our diversified thoughts will stimulate the discussion and make us lead to expansive perspectives.
If you have time, please pick up things without which you think you can't live.
That will help us get a smooth start of the discussion.
Click here to get access to the article!!
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2339523/The-20-necessities-modern-life-simply-live-without.html
The topic of 5/13 is "Donald Trump Does Not Want to Be President"
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-05-10 (火) 21:46:43)
It seems over the past year not a day has passed without mainstream media running a story about Trump.
The media’s attitude towards him has changed gradually from a position of somewhat gleeful ridicule to concern that this man actually has a shot at becoming president of the United States—and that the media itself may have helped put him there.
I found an interesting article about him. It says Trump doesn’t want to be a president ,he just wants to win the elections. He himself might be wondering how many his political ideas he can put into action. It seems to me he has been wanting to say to his supporters “ Do you really think I can carry out what I have said ? “
Do you think he will be able to keep a single campaign promise he made？
Website
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ralf-michaels/donald-trump-does-not-wan_b_9285638.html
The topic of 5/6 is " Why money can’t buy you happiness "
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-05-03 (火) 20:08:32)
“Can money buy happiness? “is both a new and an old question. Much has been said and written about whether money makes people happy, and the conclusions offered can differ radically, depending on which psychologists, economists, or commentators we listen to. It is often said that when we don’t have money we often believe
As for me the answer is Yes and NO. There seems to be no simple answer.
Do you think you could be really and much happier if you won a lottery of ¥100million ?
Let’s talk about this question.
WEBSITE of the article is below
http://www.bbc.com/future/story/20130326-why-money-cant-buy-you-happiness
The topic of 4/22 is "Introvert & Extrovert"
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-04-16 (土) 16:19:14)
Introvert・・・内向的な人
Extrovert・・・外向的な人
人の性格やcommunication styleを英語で表す時に、この二つの単語は非常によく使われます。
控えめで物静かな、自分の意見をあまりはっきりと言わない人がIntrovertで、自分の主張をはっきりと言える、社交的ではつらつとした人がExtrovertといった感じでしょうか。
みなさんはご自身をどちらのタイプたと思いますか。
私もかつてはそうでしたが、自分のタイプがどちらか、自分自身と他人とで考えが違うこともあるのがまた面白いですね。
日本人はIntrovertの方が多いと海外では認識されているようです。
しかし、だからと言ってIntrovertが決して悪いわけではありません。
日本の職場や学校でも、Introvertに対するExtrovertたちの誤った思い込みについて取り上げられることがあります。
今回の記事では、Extrovertが多数の職場でIntrovertが活躍するためのtipsがまとめられています。
この記事をもとにして、IntrovertとExtrovertについて話してみましょう。
今回のdiscussionでは、みなさん自身がどちらのタイプなのか、自分らしい特徴をいくつか事前に書き出しておくととても面白い意見交換になると思います。
記事はこちらから。
＊事務局でも印刷して用意しておりますが、不足が出ることもありますので、事前印刷へのご協力をお願いしております。
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ann-davis/how-i-thrived-as-an-introvert-in-an-extroverted-work-environment_b_9020828.html
The topic of 4/15 is "Why You Shouldn’t Care What Others Think About You"
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-04-12 (火) 06:45:23)
今週はちょっとpsychologicalな内容です
「他人がどう自分のことを思っているか」はそんなに気にしなくて良い、、、と頭でわかってもつい気にしてしまうものです。
we all want to feel important and so we crave the positive attention of others,this is one of our basic needs----これもわかりますね
この記事は 他人から良く思われたいという症状は薬物中毒症状に似て、簡単に逃れられないけど 自由になるならこれを断ち切らなければと書いています、、、、面白い見方です。
記事の中で引用されているオスカーワイルドの格言は含蓄があります。
「ほとんどの人々は他の人々である。彼らの思考は誰かの意見、彼らの人生は模倣、そして彼らの情熱は引用である。」
Make a conscious decision to stop caring what other people think----Easier said than done! ですね
記事の内容は程度の差こそあれ思い当たる節があるのではないでしょうか。Let't talk about it.
記事websiteは こちら http://www.pickthebrain.com/blog/why-you-shouldnt-care-what-others-think-about-you/
The topic of 4/8 is "Japan's cherry blossoms"
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-04-03 (日) 23:25:43)
皆さん、今日はマルチリンガルのお花見に参加していただきありがとうございました！
これまで話したことがなかったメンバーと仲良くなったり、外国人ゲストと交流を深めたりと、とても楽しい一日でしたね。
また、今日来られなかった方々も、来年のお花見にはぜひご参加ください！
さて、次回８日（金）の上級トピックはズバリ「日本の桜」です。
お花見と言うと私たち日本人は当たり前のように桜を思い浮かべますが、どのようにしてお花見の習慣が生まれたか、ご存知の方は少ないのではと思います。（僕もこの記事を読むまでは知りませんでした。）
今回の記事はJapan Timesからの引用です。
日本のおよそ2,000年の歴史に深くかかわっていることがわかる、非常に興味深い記事になっています。
この記事をもとにdiscussionをして、来年のお花見ではその歴史を外国人に説明できるように頑張りましょう～
記事はこちらから。
＊事務局でも印刷して用意しておりますが、不足が出ることもありますので、事前印刷へのご協力をお願いしております。
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2016/03/14/reference/the-centuries-old-charm-of-japans-cherry-blossoms/#.VwEe9vmLTIU
The topic of 4/1 is "April fool's day"
- 投稿者：Kei (2016-03-29 (火) 22:24:16)
月日が経つのは早いもので、もう4月がやってきました。新しい生活のスタートや周りの様々な変化がある季節ではないでしょうか？
さて、今回の開催は4/1。ということで"April fool"についてのテーマを取り上げたいと思います。小さなうそから大掛かりな馬鹿話までなぜか盛大なイベントとなる場合のあるこの日。みなさんの体験やApril foolにまつわる話を共有しながら楽しく新年度のスタートといたしましょう！
記事はこちら
http://www.timeanddate.com/news/holidays/april-fools-day.html
The topic of 3/25 is "Extraterrestrial life"
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-03-21 (月) 11:29:04)
３月も終わりに近づいて来ましたが、まだ肌寒い日が続きますね。
皆さまいかがお過ごしでしょうか。
さて、前回は少しseriousな話題だったようなので、今回はcool downも兼ねて以前好評だった"Extraterrestrial life"を扱います。
Japan Timesから記事を選びましたが、火星での水の発見から、将来人類が火星に移住する際に参考となるanalysisについても触れています。
昨年9月に同じテーマを扱いましたが、あの時とは顔ぶれも違いますので、また異なる議論が楽しめるのではないでしょうか。
今回の記事は難しい構文もなく、使用されている単語も易しめで良質な記事だと思います。
記事はこちらからご確認ください。
いつも事前印刷へのご協力ありがとうございます。
（Japan Times）
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/09/30/world/science-health-world/find-water-mars-boosts-quest-extraterrestrial-life/#.Vu9SOvmLTIW
The topic of 3/18 is "Court Orders One of Japan’s Two Operating Nuclear Plants to Shut Down
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-03-14 (月) 22:54:36)
ここのところ、casualなトピックが続いていましたが、今週は船橋マルチリンガルのゲストメンバーであるBrent Olian( テキサス、オースティン出身)が選定したNew York Timesの記事で久しぶりに時事問題となります。BrentがFacilitatorとなって進行役を務めます。
高浜原発3、4号機(福井県高浜町)の運転差し止めを命じた大津地裁の仮処分決定を扱った記事です。 Nuclear power plantについては最近あまり話題に上ることが少なくなっていますが、外国人が改めてpick upしたのも興味深いです。 Brentのコメントは下記の通り。 I chose the article because I feel it has a variety of discussion topics within in.
People can talk about:
1.Do you think nuclear power is safe?
2. What are the economic effects of not using nuclear power?
3. Should courts have this kind of power? WEBSITEはこちら
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/10/world/asia/japan-nuclear-plant.html?_r=0
最後に会場セットアップに関するご協力のお願いがありますので、
こちらを閲覧の上ご協力いただけると幸いです。
The topic of 3/11 is " Three Views of Marriage "
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-03-08 (火) 12:07:41)
結婚観が多様化はどこの国でも同じだと思いますが、アメリカにおいては特にそれが顕著なようです。結婚カップルの半分弱が離婚に至り、結婚に踏み切るのを、あるいは夫婦関係を継続することをためらう人が年々増えている結果、大人の半分ほどが未婚状態となり、” marriage is becoming obsolete “ という見解も増えているとか。
そんな状況の中でNew York Times にThree Views of Marriage「結婚を決める際に三つのレンズ(personality lens, romantic lens, moral lens )を通して相手を見極めることが必要」という記事がありました。 「人間のngative traitsは時間をかけても変わらない」、「Loveは恋愛が燃え尽きた後の残り物」、「結婚は自分を自分自身に紹介すること」等示唆に富んだ意見もあります。 日本も婚姻率の減少に見舞われていることから、結婚というシステムに何が必要か考えるのも面白いです。 Websightはこちら。
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/02/23/opinion/three-views-of-marriage.html?ref=international
最後に会場セットアップに関するご協力のお願いがありますので、
こちらを閲覧いただけると幸いでございます。
The discussion topic of 3/4 is, "Why some cultures love the taste you hate?"
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-02-29 (月) 23:57:36)
食べ物の好き嫌い、皆さんはどのくらいありますか？
程度の差はあれ、誰にでもあるものだと思いますが、海外に行ってみるとどうでしょう？
「なんでこんなものを食べてるの？」って聞きたくなるような経験をしたことはありませんか？
今回のディスカッションでは、このような異文化における味覚の違いについて書かれた記事を扱います。
皆さんの経験や外国人ゲストの意見をシェアしていきましょう。
今回は久しぶりにBBCの記事を使用します。
綴りがイギリス英語になっている箇所がありますので、ご注意ください。
当日は記事を編集して短くしたハンドアウトを使用します。
いつも事前印刷へのご協力ありがとうございます。
http://www.bbc.com/future/story/20160125-why-some-cultures-love-the-tastes-you-hate
尚、事務局より会場の設営準備に関するお願いがございます。
こちらをご閲覧いただき、準備にご協力いただけると幸いでございます。
Downfall of Japanese TV’s girl next door highlights wider industry sexism
- 投稿者：Y (2016-02-21 (日) 12:06:35)
Do you think it's Japanese sexism?
興味のない人でも目にした話題かと思いますが、不倫相手とのラインのやり取りを週刊誌に暴露され、芸能界から姿を消したベッキーはこのまま淘汰されるのでしょうか。
世間を騒がせる話題は次々起こるもので、この話題ももう古いものとなりつつあるかもしれませんが、英国の100年近い歴史があり、高級紙と言われるガーディアンがこの件を "Japanese sexism" だと取り上げていて驚きました。
難しい問題も多い中、たまにはこんなゴシップがらみの記事を読んで忌憚ない意見を交換しませんか。
＊記事はこちらから
いつも事前印刷へのご協力ありがとうございます。
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/feb/08/downfall-japan-tv-becky-industry-sexism
最後に会場の設営ご協力に関するお願いがありますので、
こちらを閲覧いただけると幸いでございます。
The topic of 2/19 is, "Omotenashi"
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-02-14 (日) 21:34:56)
オリンピック招致の際に滝川クリステルがプレゼンし、流行語大賞にまで登り詰めた「おもてなし」。
この「おもてなし」とは何か、皆さんは英語で説明できますか。
今や日本人の気質や文化を代表する言葉となりましたが、この「おもてなし」を別の観点から見る人々もいるようです。
今回取り上げるJapan Timesの記事では、来日外国人に対する「おもてなし」から観光業に至るまで、示唆に富む意見が述べられています。
皆さんが誰かに「おもてなし」を"した"、または"された"時のことを思い出しながら、ディスカッションを進めてみましょう。
＊記事はこちらから
いつも事前印刷へのご協力ありがとうございます。
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/10/10/national/media-national/omotenashi-comes-short-humility/#.VsBgfvKLTIV
The topic of 2/12 is " Blood Type & Personality "
- 投稿者：徳永 (2016-02-09 (火) 02:38:08)
血液型による性格診断は日本人が好きな話題のひとつといえますが、
外国人（自分の血液型を知らない人が多い）から見ると奇異に映るらしいです。
「血液型による性格診断は科学的根拠がなく迷信だ」という否定的な見解が大勢を占める一方、「血液型と性格は医学的に関係がある」という少数派も存在。 性格は、家庭環境や家族構成、友人関係、健康状態など複数の要因が絡み合って形成されるため、単純に4つに分類できないというのは当然ですが、根本的に備わっている資質という点で、血液型が多少なりとも影響している可能性は否定できないのかもしれません。
記載してある性格分析は累計600万部以上を売上げ、血液型ブームに火をつけた血液型別『自分の説明書』から引用したものです。「そう言われれば思い当たる節がある」、「全然自分の性格には該当しない」、「その通り」、、、どんな感想をお持ちですか？
今回のマテリアルは下記二つの記事から一部を抜粋したものです。https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blood_type_personality_theory
http://www.japantoday.com/category/lifestyle/view/the-importance-of-blood-type-in-japanese-culture
このトピックで意見が出尽くしたら short skit“Dating Nice Guys and Bad Boys ”も記載してありますので chatしてみてください。
参加される方は下記ダウンロードボタンからマテリアルの印刷をお勧めしています。
The topic of 2/5 is, "Valentine's Day"
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-02-01 (月) 19:54:54)
時間が経つのは速いもので、今年ももう２月に入りました。
バレンタインデーを２週間後に控え、デパートではチョコレートの特設コーナーで気の早い女性客が頭を悩ませています。
今回のディスカッションでは、間近に迫るバレンタインデーの世界事情を覗いてみましょう。
甘くて苦いバレンタインは日本だけ？？
世界には拍子抜けしちゃうような味気ないものから、生々しくて唖然とするものまでいーっぱいです！！
皆さんはどの国のバレンタインデーを体験してみたいですか？
＊今回は記事を二つ取り上げます。
当日のマテリアルは編集して一つにまとめたものを使用します。
いつも事前印刷へのご協力ありがとうございます。
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-3418795/In-Japan-s-MEN-treated-France-women-burn-pictures-spurn-Infographic-reveals-Valentine-s-Day-traditions-world.html
http://worldwide.giftbasketsoverseas.com/valentines-traditions-around-world
印刷は上のボタンからダウンロードをして行って下さい。
1/29のトピックはHow to Spot a Liar
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-01-26 (火) 04:41:50)
この英会話クラブのEnglish native speakerに “What do you think about white lies”と聞いたら,日本語で「嘘も方便」という答えが返ってきました。上手いこと言うなと感心しましたが、今回は「嘘」に関するトピックです。題材はPamela Meyerの有名な(12百万回以上の閲覧ありました) TED talk How to spot a liar(嘘を見破る方法)のエッセンスをまとめた記事です。
「初対面の人と会話する時は我々は最初の10分間で３回嘘をつく」とか「夫婦のやりとりでは１０回に1回は相手に嘘をつく」とかドキッとする指摘をしています。
昨年このトピックで英語chatした時「私は主人の嘘は大体見破ることができる」と言っていた恐ろしい女性がいましたが、本当に可能なのでしょうか？(笑)
人間は何故嘘をつくのでしょうか？
嘘が全く言えない社会はそれはそれでpainfulなものになってしまうとも指摘しています。 色々と考えさせられることが多いですね。
当日のプリント内容はこちらのwebsite全文と
http://www.nkamarketing.com/musings/detail/173/how-to-spot-a-liar
それとこちらのwebsiteの一部(white lies)を抜粋しています。
http://www.spring.org.uk/2009/10/are-you-a-liar.php
プリント内容は「印刷用ダウンロードボタン」をクリックして確認の上 印刷して持参願います。
The discussion topic of 1/22 is, "Yuru-Kyara", Japan's cuddly yet costly mascots!!
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-01-18 (月) 23:31:08)
「ゆるキャラ」、今や日本で知らない人はいない言葉になりましたね。
マルチリンガルでも皆さんの出身地は様々、とってもユニークなキャラクターが自慢の方もいらっしゃるでしょう。
人気のあるゆるキャラはグッズにもなり、ご当地の小売店などで販売されていて、「ついうっかり買ってしまった！？」なんて方もいるかもしれませんね。
くまモンほど人気が出れば、もはや地元のアイデンティティとなっているでしょう。（「くまモン」って一発で変換できた！！）
数え切れないほど多くなった彼ら、彼女ら（性別不明）。
最近では増えすぎて物議を醸すこともしばしばです。
同じ自治体のゆるキャラでも、納税の呼びかけや防犯の促進など目的ごとにたくさん作られてしまい、面倒を見てあげる（着ぐるみの維持とか）のに手間がかかっていますね。
かわいくて憎めないこの子たち。
人間には人間の都合があるのだよ。
ということで(笑)、最近のゆるキャラ事情について考えてみましょう。
皆さん自慢のゆるキャラがあれば、ぜひ英語で紹介してみてください。
ちなみに僕のご当地キャラは先日フジテレビでドラマデビューしました。
当日使用するプリントはWEBSITE内容を一部抜粋したものです。「印刷用ダウンロードボタン」をクリックして、印刷して来てくださることをお勧めいたします。
記事はこちらから：（少し古めですが、内容は悪くありません。）
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/04/08/national/japans-cuddly-yet-costly-mascots-face-extermination/#.VpzhriqLTIW
Topic of 1/15 is " Can men and women really just be friends?
- 投稿者：徳永和信 (2016-01-11 (月) 20:10:40)
今までどれだけ語られてきたか分からないこの問題、あなたはどう感じますか？
若い人にとってはそんなことは当たり前で今更このテーマを論じるか？と思う人もいるかもしれませんね。このtopicでの英語記事はたくさんありますが、今回ピックアップしたのはTEDのスピーカーとしても有名なEsther Perel(ベルギー出身の精神療法医)が投稿した記事です。男女間の問題をテーマにTEDでプレゼンテーションをしています。Cross sex friendship(異性間の友情)にどう対応しているのか、、、、これも男女で微妙に異なり、時としてこの差が友情成立の阻害要因になる。一方では同性間での友情からは得られないものがある。わかる気がします。
このテーマに関する意見は年代で大きく異なるかもしれないので若い世代も参加して欲しいですね。
当日配布するプリントは下記のWEBSITEの内容を一部抜粋したものです。プリント内容は「印刷用ダウンロードボタン」をクリックして確認してください。
https://www.psychologies.co.uk/can-men-and-women-really-just-be-friends
The discussion topic of 1/8 is, "Gun Regulation"
- 投稿者：Tom (2016-01-04 (月) 00:22:41)
Happy New Year!!
今年もよろしくお願い致します。
2016年のセッションは、１月８日（金）からスタートです。
Don't miss it out!!
さて、新年最初のTopicは"Gun Regulation"、「銃規制」です。
今回の記事は昨年12月のNew York Timesの社説ですが、この社説は発行時に一面に掲載されました。
同紙が一面に社説を掲載するのは95年ぶりということで、日本の各紙も驚きを隠せなかったようです。
それだけに、New York Times紙がアメリカ国民に向けての強いメッセージを込めた、渾身の記事だとも言えるでしょう。
新年最初のマテリアルとして、この歴史的な良質記事をもとに意見交換しましょう。
なお、今回の会場は公民館５階の第４集会室です。
会場の都合から部屋が変更になることがありますので、ご注意ください。
記事はこちらから：
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/05/opinion/end-the-gun-epidemic-in-america.html?_r=0
印刷は上のボタンからダウンロードをして下さい。
今年最後(12/18)の上級コースTopicは “ Opinion Poll “ です。
- 投稿者：徳永 (2015-12-14 (月) 12:54:16)
「世論調査」(Opinion Poll)は頻繁にマスコミが利用していますね。数字として出てくると ついそれが実態だと信じてしまいますが、つかみどころがないのが実情ですね。 「半分以上が⚪️⚪️を信じている」という結果が出ても自分の周りには信じている人が殆どいなかったり。 この前の安保法案でも賛成は半分に満たないとか、80%以上が賛成しているとか、様々な数字があり何が実態なのかよくわかりません。 質問の方法によって結果が大きく異なってしまうのも世論調査の危ういところです。 わずかな人たちにアンケートしただけで国民の真意と言えるのかという疑問もあります。
NY TimesでPublic Opinion Pollの問題点・功罪を論じています。 「PollはIllusionをつくってしまう」という意見もあれば「では、他に民意を知る手立てがあるのか」という主張もあります。 どちらの意見に共感されるでしょうか。 二人のコラムニストの意見はこちらです。http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2015/11/30/does-polling-undermine-democracy/polls-can-create-an-illusion-of-public-opinion
印刷は上のボタンからダウンロードをして下さい。
The discussion topic of 12/11 is "Climate Change and Terrorism"
- 投稿者：Tom (2015-12-06 (日) 21:56:03)
11月30日、パリでCOP21（気候変動枠組条約第21回締約国会議）が開幕しました。
12月11日までの会期の中で、2020年以降の温室効果ガス排出削減目標について議論されることとなっています。
今回の開催地パリは、奇しくも先日のイスラム国（IS）による同時多発テロの標的となった都市です。
開催国フランスのオランド大統領は、首脳演説の中で「テロと地球温暖化との関わり」について指摘しています。
パリのテロがきっかけとなり、気候変動とテロとの因果関係について様々な記事がメディアで取り上げられるようになりました。
もちろん、気候変動がテロの唯一の誘因ではありませんが、その関連性に注目が集まっているのは新たな傾向と言えます。
犠牲者に対し深く哀悼の意を示すとともに、気候変動についてより真剣に考える時が来ているという論調が目立ちます。
気候変動はテロ以外にも、農作物の不作や移民、島嶼国の国土喪失など、様々な出来事につながっています。
皆さんはどの切り口から気候変動を捉えますか。
寒さ厳しさ増す中、今最もホットなトピックについて意見交換しましょう。
印刷は上のボタンからダウンロードをして行って下さい。
12/4トピック Native English-speaking teachers: always the right choice?
- 投稿者：徳永 (2015-11-29 (日) 17:19:26)
NEST vs NNest--------何のことかおわかりでしょうか？
Native English Speaking Teachers vs Non-Native English Speaking Teachersのことです。
TEFL (teaching English as a foreign language ----英語圏以外の国で、英語が母語でない人に英語を教えること)関連の英語教師募集サイトでは７０％がNative English Speakersを求めているとのこと。英語教師職募集においてNativeを偏重する傾向に疑問を呈しているのがポーランド人の英語言語学者、英語教師でもあるMarek Kiczkowiak (winner of the British Council’s Teaching English blog award)。
英語教師を採用する際に” nativeness is equal to teaching ability.” という概念を否定しています。非英語圏の生徒に教える際にはNon-Nativeの方が有利な点もあると指摘しています。 Native or Non-nativeは関係なく、必要なのはコミュニケーション能力、教師としての特性、インテリジェンスだと主張。Nativeだけが優秀な教師になるというのは神話だとも。日本においても昔はNative と同じくらいに英語が堪能なアジア人が英会話教室を開催しても生徒が一人も集まらなかったという事例があったようですが、さすがに今はそういう差別はなくなっていますね。
そもそも論からいうと”Who is a NEST? “という疑問もあります。
当日(4日)にはこの記事に投稿した読者の意見も合わせて読んでいただきます。
WEBSITEはこちらです。
https://www.britishcouncil.org/voices-magazine/native-english-speaking-teachers-always-right-choice
下記のボタンから12/4のマテリアルをダウンロード→印刷をお願いします。
11/27上級コーストピックは 「難民はもうたくさん？」
- 投稿者：徳永 (2015-11-23 (月) 14:39:32)
「難民はもうたくさん」、、、、、 世界を震撼させたパリ同時多発後、こんな声がある一方で
「移民や難民はテロから逃れてきているのであり、テロを起こすために来ているのではない」と冷静な対応を求めている声もあるようです。
テロ防止と難民受け入れ。どちらを優先すべきか、欧州は揺れています。
難民同様不安視されているのが “ Home-made terrorists” の存在です。今回の実行犯のなかにフランス人が含まれているのも対応をさらに困難にさせています。
３人の識者がNew York Timesにコメントを寄せており、” Should Europe try to protect itself by keeping refugees out? “ について論じています。どの意見に共感されるでしょうか。 記事のWEBSITEに入ったら下記の３件のコメントをクリックしてください
http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2015/11/16/should-europe-shun-refugees-after-the-paris-attacks
Stop Blaming Refugees for Attacks Like Those in Paris
Conscript Male Refugees to Fight in Syria
A Crackdown on Refugees Won’t Ease the Threat of Terrorism
追加：2015/11/24
上級コース参加ご希望の方は、各自で学習マテリアルの印刷やタブレットを準備するなどして参加いただくようご協力お願い致します。
(こちらで用意するプリントは枚数が限られております。)
11月20日の上級コーストピックは Asian Advantage
- 投稿者：徳永 (2015-11-17 (火) 14:49:30)
アメリカでは「アジア系アメリカ人はアメリカにおいて何故そんなに成功を収めているのか？」ということが問われているようです。
(アジア系の定義------- 日本、中国、韓国、インド、フィリピン、ベトナム)
調査によるとアジア系アメリカ人は、満足度、経済力、学歴全てにおいて、一般のアメリカ人のレベルを上回り、世帯平均収入に関しても、アメリカの全体平均を大きく上回る結果があるそうです。 Asian –Americans are “ smart and hard-working “という認識。 子供の教育に対する熱心さも群を抜いている模様。アメリカ人全般で、子どもに「勉強しなさい」と説教する親は9％にすぎないという。
一方ではアジア系アメリカ人が「マイノリティの(成功)モデル」と呼ばれるほどの実績にもかかわらずアジア系人材が企業のトップになるのが偏見や文化的差異によって阻まれているという(Glass ceilingならぬ)Bamboo ceilingが依然としてあるようです。
実際には アジア系アメリカ人として一括りにするのは困難なほどアジア人の間の多様性は大きくなっていますがアメリカ人からするとassertiveness, vision and interpersonal skillsを欠いているというstereotypeがあるようです。 皆さんどう思われますか？
WEBSITEは二つあります
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/10/11/opinion/sunday/the-asian-advantage.html
もう一つはこちら
http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2015/10/16/the-effects-of-seeing-asian-americans-as-a-model-minority/a-bamboo-ceiling-keeps-asian-american-executives-from-advancing
11/13の上級ディスカッショントピックは、"One-Child Policy"
- 投稿者：Tom (2015-11-03 (火) 21:42:29)
次回のセッションは11月13日（金）となりますので、ご注意ください。
（11月6日（金）は公民館が使えず、お休みです。）
さて、次回の上級コースのトピックは"One-Child Policy"、中国の一人っ子政策です。
先週末、中国政府が一人っ子政策の廃止を決定したという報道がありました。
中国の一人っ子政策といえば、小学校の社会で習ってから中国のイメージとしてすっかり定着してしまった人も多いのではないでしょうか？
基本として子供は一人しか持ってはいけないというこの特異な政策は、中国社会にどのような影響を与えてきたのでしょうか。
現代社会では先進国を中心とした人口高齢化問題と、一部の発展途上国の人口爆発の懸念など、人口に関する様々な問題があります。
中国だけでなく、世界にも目を向けながらディスカッションしましょう。
記事はこちらから：http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-34665539
10/30上級コーストピックは"Switching Job (転職)です
- 投稿者：徳永 (2015-10-26 (月) 19:11:40)
我々日本人にとっては転職は人生でそう頻繁に遭遇する出来事ではありませんが、転職大国と言われているアメリカでは平均して１１もの仕事をすると言われています。
アメリカでは20代の約80％が転職したいと考えており、30代では64％、40代では54％となっています
従って “ How to switch job ” の類のものが巷に溢れているようですが、今回はHarvard Business Review(ハーバード大学の経営大学院の機関誌)に掲載された記事を採用してみました。専門家による５のアドバイスが記されており、これには賛否両論あるでしょうが、転職を考えている人にも、考えていない人にも面白く読めます。
more fulfilling, challenging, and satisfying jobを探す上でのヒントになるかもしれません。
アメリカのこの状況は日本の未来の姿なのかも!? 日米の比較も含め皆さんが転職についてどんなイメージを持っていらっしゃるのか聞いてみたいです。
WEBSITEはこちらです。
https://hbr.org/2015/07/setting-the-record-straight-on-switching-jobs
10/23の上級ディスカッショントピック "Summer Baby"
- 投稿者：Tom (2015-10-17 (土) 23:51:04)
皆さんのお誕生日はいつですか？
今回の記事は夏生まれの方に朗報です！
冬生まれの方は、、、落ち込まないでください！！
イギリスでは、夏生まれの子供が他の季節に生まれた子供よりも健康に育ちやすいという研究結果が出ているようです。
その主な要因の一つが、お母さんが妊娠期間中に浴びた日光の量だと考えられています。
具体的なメカニズムはまだ解明されていませんが、日光によるビタミンDが妊娠期間中の乳児になんらかの良い影響をもたらすようです。
今回はこのことについて書かれた記事をもとにして、夏生まれの子供とその他の季節に生まれた子供について話してみましょう。
ちなみにBBC Learning Englishでも夏生まれの子供についてのマテリアルが配信されていました。
こちらは学校での成績など別の要素について検討されていましたが、イギリスでは夏生まれと冬生まれの子供の比較が流行っているんでしょうか？？？
今回も特別な専門知識などは必要ありません。
自由に意見を出し合いましょう！
もちろん、春生まれと秋生まれの方もぜひご参加くださいね！笑
ちなみに僕は春が待ち遠しい２月生まれです。
10/16の上級トピックEuthanasia(安楽死) and Physician -assisted suicide"
- 投稿者：Toku (2015-10-12 (月) 18:08:33)
約１年前、２９歳のアメリカ女性ブリタニー・メイナードさんが末期の脳腫瘍で余命半年と告知され、みずから死を選ぶと宣言し医師から処方された薬物を服用して死亡。「安楽死」の是非について世界的に大きな議論を呼んだのを覚えていらっしゃるでしょうか。
彼女が書いたコラム「My right to death with dignity at 29」は約6000件のコメントが寄せられ、これまで彼女のYouTubeは1千万回以上も再生され、安楽死、自殺幇助に関する全米での大論争のキッカケとなりました。安楽死は彼女が生まれ育ったカリフォルニアでは違法な為、多額の費用を要してオレゴン（安楽死が可能）にi移住しましたが、つい最近カリフォルニアでも合法化（アメリカで５番目の州）。これをきっかけに再度アメリカで論議が復活。日本ではもちろん禁止されていますが 患者を堪え難い苦痛から解放してやるという目的があるにしても倫理的な観点から各国では合法 or 非合法で揺れ動いています。 今回の記事では二人のコラムニストが賛成、反対の立場で各々コメントを寄せています。記事を読むとどちらの意見にも共感してしまうのは毎度のことですが、皆さんはどう思われますか。WEBSITEには６件のshort commentsが投稿されていますが、次の４件を討議対象とします。
No One Clearly Wants To Die Should be Forced To Live
Society Must Discourage Suicide, Not Facilitate It
Ending Incurable Suffering Must Be an Act of Compassion
Don’t Hasten the Slide Down the Slippery Slope
Web siteはこちらです http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2015/09/10/helping-a-suicide-when-the-end-isnt-near
10/9上級ディスカッショントピックは"Technology and Book"
- 投稿者：Tom (2015-10-06 (火) 22:42:38)
皆さんは読書が好きですか？
好きでも嫌いでも、全く本を読まない人はまずいないでしょう。
読書は私たちに新しい知識を与えてくれ、私たちの生活を豊かにしてくれます。
そんな読書が、ここ十数年の技術革新によってその姿を変えつつあります。
通勤電車の中でタブレットの画面を指でサッと払ったかと思えば、次のページへ・・・
キンドルなどに代表される電子書籍の普及です。
発売初期は既存の出版業界に大きな打撃を与えると考えられていたものの、紙の書籍はいまだ健在。
今回の記事では、この２種類の書籍に対してなるほどと思わせてくれる見解を示してくれています。
今週は、皆さんの読書習慣や電子書籍に対する考えをお聞かせください。
記事： http://www.bbc.com/news/business-33717596
10/2上級コーストピックは"High- and low-context cultures"
- 投稿者：Kei (2015-09-28 (月) 23:16:45)
国際化が進む今日において、異文化間での慣習等の違いによって様々な問題が生じる場合があると思います。言語においても「阿吽の呼吸」という言葉に代表される日本語のようなHigh context(文化)と英語、欧米の国々のようなLow context(文化)の違いからうまく意思疎通ができなかった経験があるのではないでしょうか？
例えば、電話をかける場合において、日本語では「Aさんはいらっしゃいますか?」と電話口で伝えれば、ほとんどの日本人はAさんと電話したいんだなということを推測します。
しかしこれを英語にそのまま直訳して「Is Mr. A there?」というと、High context圏の人にはただ在席確認をして欲しいだけと取られることがあり、「Aは今日いますけど」と回答される事もあるかと思います(私はこういう返事をされたことが何回もありました)
なので、英語では「May I speak to Mr. A?」というように目的をはっきりとさせた質問の仕方をする方がより適切だと感じています。
どちらが優れているということは決していえないと思いますが、国際語である英語を使って仕事、プライベートにおいて他の文化的背景をもった人と交流をしていく上でこれらの観点に気をつけることは必要だと感じています。そこでみなさんの考え方、contextの違う国の方とのうまい交流の仕方等について意見交換をしたいと思います。
記事：http://www.cbsnews.com/news/this-is-why-they-dont-understand-you-overseas/
(古めの記事ですが、なかなか見つからなかったため上記を題材といたします。よりよいものがあったら更新いたします)
参考：https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-_and_low-context_cultures
(High- and low-context culturesのwikipedia)
9/25上級コーストピックはGermany won respect by addressing its World War II crimes. Japan, not so much.
- 投稿者：Toku (on behalf of Imke) (2015-09-22 (火) 00:29:16)
ドイツは第二次世界大戦の戦争犯罪への対応で尊敬を集めているのに、日本は？
第二次世界大戦の敗戦国である日本とドイツは各々の戦後対応により被害国との関係に大きな差が生じています。周辺諸国の信頼を回復しEUの事実上のリーダーになったドイツと今だに領土問題と歴史認識で隣国と良好関係を築けないでいる日本。 違いはどこにあるのかをこの記事は論じています。37%のアメリカ人が「日本は十分謝罪している」と考え,24%が「これ以上のapologyは必要ない」と認識。謝罪という意味ではドイツより日本の謝罪姿勢をアメリカ人は評価している模様、、、なのに肝心の隣国はそう見てくれないんですね。
この点において何かドイツから学ぶことがあるのでしょうか。
今回の記事はドイツの女性が選定し司会も努めてくれます。彼女の意見もぜひ聞いてみたいですね。様々な観点から様々な意見が出ることを期待しています。 WEBSITEはこちらです https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/worldviews/wp/2015/08/13/germany-won-respect-by-addressing-its-world-war-ii-crimes-japan-not-so-much/
9/18上級ディスカッションのトピック：Can supersonic dreams survive the global warming age?
- 投稿者：Tom (2015-09-12 (土) 13:07:47)
みなさんは飛行機にどのくらい乗りますか？
仕事で海外へ行く人は、あの固いシートにうっぷんを溜めながら何時間も座っているかもしれませんね。
観光地に向けて、「どこ行こうかな～？？言葉通じるかな？」なんてわくわくどきどきしながらあの閉鎖空間を過ごす人もいるでしょう。
航空業界では地球温暖化への対策が差し迫った課題になっていて、超音速ジェットの開発に力を入れにくいそうです。
それでも業界の人や飛行機好きな人にとっては、航行速度を上げていくことは大きな夢であり続けます。
SFを中心としたたくさんの映画がメディア上であふれている今、私たちもあの空想上の世界が現実になったら、一度でいいからその飛行機に乗ってみたいときっと思うことでしょう。
この記事では超音速ジェットを開発する上で技術的に問題になることから、客席シートに工夫を凝らすことなどいろいろな観点からこの大きな夢について考えられています。
飛行機を使うときのことを思い出しながら、音速を超えた空の旅について意見交換をしていきましょう。
なお、この記事には技術的な英単語が少し使われており、語いレベルも高めになっています。
時間がある方は、セッションの前にこの記事をざっと読んでおくことをお奨めします。
記事はこちら： http://www.bbc.com/news/business-30915666
9/11の上級コースTopicは「German Higher Prodcutivity」
- 投稿者：Toku (2015-09-07 (月) 22:37:34)
記事のタイトルは「ドイツは労働時間が短いのに、何故、より多くの国富を生み出しているのか」 ドイツの効率性の高さをテーマにこの記事はアメリカとの対比を主体にしていますが、日本との対比で見ても一人当たりのGDP,一時間あたりのGDPいずれもドイツが日本を大きく上回っています。
福利厚生も充実しており、３０日間の有給を利用する人が多く、産休に対する手厚い制度が特徴的です。 何故、高い効率性と充実した福祉が両立するのか、ドイツ人の国民性も興味深く書かれています。 笑ってしまったのがアメリカ人なら “It would be great if you could get this to me by 3pm”と言うけどドイツ人は“I need this by 3pm”で済ませるとか。
英国BBCドキュメント” Make Me A German ”という番組で、ドイツ人女性が英国オフィスで働いた時のショックを次のように語っています。” I was in the office and the people are talking all the time about their private things… ‘What’s the plan for tonight?’, and all the time drinking coffee “
要はドイツ人は仕事中は無駄口をたたかないということ？
全体的に「ドイツを褒めすぎ？」の印象もありますが、なにかにつけて比較される日本とドイツという観点からも語りあいたいですね。
http://knote.com/2014/11/10/why-germans-work-fewer-hours-but-produce-more-a-study-in-culture/
9/4の上級コースTopicは、"Aliens"
- 投稿者：Tom (2015-09-01 (火) 00:14:26)
宇宙人、エイリアン、地球外生命体・・・
皆さんはこれらの存在を信じますか？
それともただのSFの世界なのでしょうか？
ロンドンのとある団体が、6,400万ポンド（約119億円）をかけて新たな調査計画（initiative）をスタートさせたと報じられています。
Alienの存在の是非はさておき、やはりいつの時代でも人々の関心を誘う話題であることは間違いありません。
本当にAlienは存在するのか、これまでの説やAlienを題材にした映画などを思い出しながら自由に意見を出し合いましょう。
記事：http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-33596271
8/28の上級コーストピックは World's most livable city
- 投稿者：Toku (2015-08-25 (火) 03:46:10)
「世界でもっとも住みやすい都市」ランキングは次の三つが有名
Mercer--- NY本拠地の世界最大の組織・人事マネジメント・コンサルティング会社
Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU)---名門の英経済誌「エコノミスト」の調査部門
Monocle-----英国発のグローバル情報誌
MercerとEIUの東京評価は低くBest 10にも選ばれていなく、Merceはウイーンを４年連続No.1にEIUはメルボルンを５年連続No.1に選出。 一方Monocleは2015年版で東京をNO.1(前年No.2)に選出しました。治安の良さ、公共交通、公立学校、医療制度の充実が評価されたようです。ウイーンがNo.2, ベルリンがNo.3です。 海外在住の日系女性ジャーナリストがこのMonocleのランキング結果を支持している記事を読むと、普段我々が当たり前に享受している日本の特性にもっと有り難みを感じなければと思います。この結果に辛口コメントを寄せている他の記事も合わせてお読みいただき、改めて東京assessmentを論じてみたいとおもいます。
記事WEBSITEは下記の二つです。
http://www.traveller.com.au/tokyo-worlds-most-liveable-city-four-reasons-this-city-is-the-best-gi6vs5
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/opinion/2015/06/20/editorials/tokyo-worlds-livable-city/#.VdtmSLQvHBY
8/21上級ディスカッションのトピック： Europe's migrant crisis
- 投稿者：Tom (2015-08-16 (日) 23:23:39)
地中海を中心とするヨーロッパ諸国では、移民が近年の最も大きな問題の一つとなっています。
紛争や経済的な理由など様々な事情を抱えて移住を試みる彼らに対し、受け入れる欧州各国も対応に頭を悩ませているのが現状です。
我が国日本においても、労働力として移民を受け入れるかどうか、十分と言えないまでもこれまで議論がなされてきました。
欧州における移民問題について考えながら、日本の移民問題における展望についても意見を出し合いましょう。
記事：http://edition.cnn.com/2015/08/15/world/mediterranean-migrants/index.html
8/7の上級コースTopicは Capital Punishment in japan
- 投稿者：Toku (2015-08-03 (月) 20:43:21)
ここのところ、casualなトピックが続きましたので今週はちょっとseriousな話題です。
テーマはCapital Punishment( or Death Penalty ) 。
Death penaltyは廃止・停止が世界の潮流のようで、主要な民主的、先進国家の中では日本とアメリカだけが死刑存置国だけであり、そのアメリカでも廃止する州が増える傾向にあるとのこと。 一方、日本の世論調査では死刑容認派が８０%を超える状態が続いています。理由は「被害者、家族の気持ちを考慮」「兇悪犯罪には極刑をもって臨むべき」「犯罪抑止効果がある」等が主なものですが、果たして本当にそうなのでしょうか？ 国連等人権擁護団体からの非難にもかかわらず世論を見方に頑なに死刑制度存続を選択してきた日本、この問題では孤立してしまうのでしょうか。どう思いますか。
WEBSITEは下記の通り二つあります。（いずれもJapan Times）
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/01/25/national/cabinet-office-poll-80-of-respondents-think-death-penalty-permissible/#.Vb8LT3gvEWO
Topic of 7/31 is "Let the Pluto conspiracy theories begin! I"
- 投稿者：Imke (2015-07-26 (日) 18:08:25)
Since mankind lived, a big part in the community has always been conspiracy theories(陰謀説). Anything that doesn't fit into the viewers way of seeing things is eventually marked as "fake". We heard the moon landing was fake, 9/11 was fake and other events which are hard to explain were fake as well. I personally think, the visit of Pluto by the New Horizon satellites was and is an exciting event and a big step for space sciences. I would like to talk about this event and conspiracy theories in general. The article gives information about what kind of theories came up after the New Horizon set its mission to Pluto and about the discoveries made so far.
Following is the WEBSITE of this article
7/24上級コースのTopicはArctic Ice
- 投稿者：Tom (2015-07-21 (火) 23:09:05)
現代社会で最大の環境問題である地球温暖化。
ゲリラ豪雨や台風の発生時期、生きものの生息域の変化など、私たちの生活にもその影響は身近に感じられるようになってきました。
この気候変動による影響が最も顕著に表れているのが、北極の氷の量。
ここ数年にどのような変化が起こり、今後はどのような展望なのか・・・
グローバルな視点、私たちの日常生活の両面からこの問題について考えてみましょう。
記事はこちら
http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-33594654
7/17上級コースのTopicはWages for Housework
- 投稿者：TOKU (2015-07-13 (月) 20:30:23)
New York Times にこんな記事が掲載されました「家事は家族にとって必要な労働だが、殆ど無報酬である。他人を雇ってしてもらう 料理、掃除、子供の世話には金を払うが、自らの労働には対価が支払われない。 昨年イタリヤの政治家が、政府、若しくは夫、パートナーが この報われない仕事に対して主婦に対価を払う法案を提案。 数年前にはインドが同様に検討。 家事の多くをする家族には対価を払うべきであろうか、、、、」というものです。
３人debatersの意見が掲載されていますのでそれぞれCLICKして読んで頂きたく。共感できるものはあるでしょうか。
私が共感できたのは次の文書 The job of a homemaker is often taken for granted. But the women and men who devote their days to keeping their households in order deserve respect and appreciation.
WEBSITE記事は３件あります。
http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2014/09/09/wages-for-housework/compensation-for-housework-should-be-a-family-decision
7/10の上級コーストピックは Japan’s troubling lack of romance
- 投稿者：TOKU (2015-07-06 (月) 21:14:21)
２０１５年版の「少子化社会対策白書」によると未婚で恋人がいない男女に恋人が欲しいかを尋ねたところ、「欲しくない」は３７・６％。理由は、46.2％が「恋愛が面倒くさい」。「自分の趣味に力を入れたい」が45.1％、「仕事や勉強に力を入れたい」32.9％、「恋愛に興味がない」が28％。
２０１０年の調査では２０代、３０代の男性未婚者の４人に1人がverginであるとのこと。 これらの現象が少子高齢化を促進している要因の一つとの分析です。
経済的余裕と恋愛はリンクしているとの判断で,白書は若年層の所得の伸び悩み、長時間残業、出産後の女性の就労継続が厳しい状況・、、等が晩婚化・晩産化の背景にあると指摘しており、政府はなんらかのサポートが必要と考えている模様。 これは日本特有の問題なのでしょうか
Japan Times とCNNの記事サイトはこちらhttp://www.japantimes.co.jp/opinion/2015/07/04/editorials/japans-troubling-lack-romance/#.VZpvb3gvEWO
http://edition.cnn.com/2015/06/24/asia/japan-middle-aged-virgins/?iref=obinsite
7/3上級コースTopicは"How many Earths do we need?"
- 投稿者：Tom (2015-06-29 (月) 22:06:30)
「世界中の人々がアメリカ人と同じレベルの消費生活をしたら、地球が４つ必要になる。」
このような興味深い記事を見つけました。
世界にはたくさんの国がありますが、社会のあり方は様々です。
記事の中では、意外な国が消費の多い国として挙げられていました。
人々の大量消費に起因する問題は、資源の枯渇など環境問題を中心にして多方面に波及しています。
今回の記事を題材にして、地球温暖化や生物多様性など世界中の環境問題へと話を繋げても面白そうですね。
記事はこちらから。
http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-33133712
6/26上級コースは米国黒人教会における銃発泡事件を題材にします。
- 投稿者：Toku (2015-06-22 (月) 21:37:37)
６月１７日にアメリカでまた無差別銃撃事件（９人死亡）が発生しました。今回は黒人協会での２０代の白人男性による発泡です。事件が起きる度にアメリカでは銃規制を見直そうとの動きが出ますが、その場限りで法制化までは至りません。スーパーで日常品を買うのと同じくらい容易に銃を購入できる社会は日本人には想像できません。それでも購入者のバックグラウンド確認は必要で、mentally health problemを抱えている人には販売出来ないのですが、このdata管理がずさんでworkしていない模様。 アメリカにおいて銃へのAccessを厳しくできるのか、またgun controlが厳しくなれば銃犯罪は減少するのかというのは難しい問題ですが、日本人に全く無縁な話とは思われません。英語で語りあいましょう。
websiteはこちら
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/20/us/gun-control-voices-in-congress-all-but-silent-after-charleston-shooting.html
6/12の上級コースTopicは"Electric Dreams"
- 投稿者：Tom (2015-06-06 (土) 15:21:34)
現代世界のトレンドの一つである人工知能。
あのソフトバンクの孫正義氏も、これからは人工知能の時代だと述べています。
同社が開発したpepperはソフトバンクの店頭でも目にしますね。
私たちの日常生活や仕事の一部がこれらのロボットに取って代わる時代も、そう遠くないかもしれません。
今回の記事は、佐世保市で来月オープンするホテルの驚くべき計画から始まります。
コンシェルジュがロボットのホテルなんて、これまで想像できましたか。
この記事では他にも、客室の施錠にスマートフォンが使われている事例から、このようなハイテク技術の普及による新たな問題についても触れています。
人工知能の普及の是非はもちろん、更なる技術革新を遂げた未来を想像しながら、Discussionを楽しみましょう。
記事はこちらから。
http://www.bbc.com/news/business-32931923
＊関連記事
http://toyokeizai.net/articles/-/59338
6/5の上級コースのTopicは” Performance Review” (勤務評価、業績評価)
- 投稿者：TOKU (2015-06-02 (火) 15:23:18)
組織で働く限り、成績を評価される、または評価するということは避けられないことの一つですね。アメリカ企業の多くが採用しているのは年一回のPerformance Review において上司が
部下の評価（５段階評価が多い）、coaching 等feedbackを提示すべくinterviewを設ける方法のようですが、評価の客観性、効果的なfeedbackを巡って賛否両論があるようです。 人を評価することの難しさは日米共通の課題であり、英語で論じてみたいですね。
WEBSITEはこちらです。
http://www.latimes.com/opinion/op-ed/la-oe-0213-culbert-performance-reviews-20150213-story.html
5/29の上級コースTopicは Our Pampered Wilderness
- 投稿者：Toku (2015-05-26 (火) 15:55:08)
アメリカには様々な有名な州立公園がありキャンプを楽しむ絶好の場所として人気がありますがます（年間７億以上の訪問数）。しかし多くが運営面で財政難に苦しんでいます。 公的資金援助が先細りして 何処も生き残りに必死のようです。 そんな中新しいキャンピングスタイルとして最近登場したのが Glampingです。Glamorous Campingの略で、ホテル並みの快適さやサービスが受けられる業態です。これが州立公園の活性化になりうるかどうか興味あるところです。
記事のWEBSITE はこちらです。
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/24/opinion/sunday/our-pampered-wilderness.html?smid=nytcore-ipad-share&smprod=nytcore-ipad&_r=0
5月22日のトピックは「Are you more stressed at home than at work?」
- 投稿者：Toku (2015-05-19 (火) 22:07:59)
アメリカでのある調査によると男女共に職場にいる方が家よりless stressfulという結果がでているそうです。職場が家のようになり、家がストレスに満ちてくる現象が進んでいるらしい。
女性は家にいるより職場の方がhappier ,男性は職場にいるより家の方がmoderately happierとの調査結果もあるとのこと。
アメリカとは事情が違うので日米比較は一概にはできませんがユニークな記事です、英語も簡単で読みやすいです。
WEBSITEはこちらです。
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/she-the-people/wp/2014/05/22/are-you-more-stressed-at-home-than-at-work/?hpid=z1
5/15の上級コースTopicはWhy Don't Americans Take Vacation?
- 投稿者：TOKU (2015-05-11 (月) 15:44:32)
先進国の中で有給休暇取得率が高い国はバカン好きのフランスで、最低が日本というのは通例となっていますが、日本と同じくらい低いのが意外にもアメリカなのです。アメリカは先進国の中で、唯一企業に有給休暇を義務付ける法律が存在しない国で、４人に1人は有給休暇を全く取っていないとのこと。アメリカが “ no-vacation nation “ と呼ばれる所以らしい。
有給休暇がとりづらいというのは日米共通の事情もあればアメリカ独特の事情もあるみたいです私が１３年間アメリカの日本法人に勤めていた時は有給休暇を100%取得するようしつこく言われていたのでこの記事は予想外でした。 このタイトルで４人の有識者が意見を投稿しています。どの意見に共感されますか？
記事のWEBSITEはこちらです。
http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2014/09/04/why-dont-americans-take-vacation-7
５月８日上級コースのDiscussion Topicは"What is the purpose of my life?
- 投稿者：Toku (2015-05-06 (水) 18:43:53)
「あなたの人生の目的は何？」と聞かれて即座に答えられる人はどれくらいいるんでしょうか。
昔と違って今は、人生の意義というような哲学的な論議をする機会も、答えに導いてくれる有識者も少なくなっているとのこと。世界の多様化、分散化が原因らしいです。
しかし、現在でも人生の意義、目的を見出すことを熱望している人は多いようでこの記事は示唆に富んでいます。
記事のWEBSITEはこちらです。
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/05/opinion/david-brooks-what-is-your-purpose.html?smid=nytcore-ipad-share&smprod=nytcore-ipad
5/1の上級コースTopicは Single Mother
- 投稿者：Toku (2015-04-28 (火) 10:08:37)
今年３月にWashington Postに女性作家が刺激的なタイトルで記事を寄稿し、560件の読者コメントが寄せられ一時 controversial になりました。
Titleは " I'm a single mother by choice. One parent can be better than two. Stop pitying single mothers " (自ら望んでシングルマザーになった。親は一人の方がよい。シングルマザーに同情するのは辞めて） 多くの反応があったのも当然ですね。彼女のことをselfish, irresponsible, narcissistと批判するコメントが多い反面賛同の声もあります。何故彼女がそんなことを言ったのか興味ありますよね。
Let me know what you think of her opinion.
記事のwebsiteはこちら
4/24の上級コースTopicは Other Side of Boredom
- 投稿者：Toku (2015-04-22 (水) 09:46:32)
皆さんは「退屈」「何もすることがない」状態に耐えられるでしょうか？この記事によるとと"Boredom is often crazy-making"らしいですが,一方ではboredomをうまく利用すれば有益な時間帯になるようです。時間を無駄に過ごしたりダラダラと何もしないことも時には必要で、そこから新しい発想が生まれるとも。皆さんが日常生活にいてどのような時に「退屈さ」を感じて、如何に対処しているか聞いてみたいですね。
記事のWEB SITEはこちらです。
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/19/opinion/sunday/the-other-side-of-boredom.html?smid=nytcore-ipad-share&smprod=nytcore-ipad
４月17日 上級コースTopic "Prenup" 婚前契約
- 投稿者：Toku (2015-04-13 (月) 15:48:17)
Prenup( or Prenuptial Agreements)という言葉を聞いたことがありますか？
「婚前契約」です。
結婚／離婚を繰り返す海外セレブやハリウッドスターが離婚時の金銭トラブルを回避するために予め慰謝料や財産分与を取り決めておく慣習から始まりましたが、今では一般層でも頻繁に活用されています（欧米ではカップルの２０％が利用）。
普及に伴い、内容もmoney mattersから結婚生活における夫婦の約束事等Life Styleにまで及んでいます。
約束違反の場合はPenaltyが待ち受けているとか。「え、そんなことも事前に契約で決めるの？」というのが大方の日本人の感想でしょうけど、、、、、
WebSiteはこちらの二つです。
http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/personalfinance/2014/12/28/nerdwallet-prenup/20901021/
上級(discussion)コース4月10日の Topicについて
- 投稿者：K.T (on behalf of H.T) (2015-04-09 (木) 12:02:04)
記事Title:Retired Japanese Fighter Pilot Sees an Old Danger on the Horizon
98歳の元ゼロ戦パイロットの原田要さんの戦争体験をNY Timesが記事にしました.
戦争の生き証人が訴える反戦は何よりも増して説得力があります。
"What a moving piece"という読者のコメントもうなずけます。
記事の英語も分かりやすいです。一緒に語り合いましょう。
記事のWEB SITEはこちらです。
上級(discussion)コースのご案内と4月3日のDiscussion Topicについて
- 投稿者：K.T (2015-03-22 (日) 12:25:40)
上級コースでは毎週英語記事(Japan Times, NY Times, The Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, CNN, Financial Times, TED 等)を題材にdiscussionを行います。
２〜3ページの記事につきreading、意味不明箇所の確認をしてからFree discussionに入ります。
４月３日のTopicは下記の通りです。
Title:「Starbucks Initiative on Race Relations Draws Attacks Online」
◇記事概要
スターバックスのCEO Howard Schultzが又物議を醸しています。
店舗で出すコーヒーカップにRace Together(人種の共存。人種問題を共に考えよう) と書くよう従業員に奨励。
警官による黒人青年銃殺事件などをきっかけに米国で再燃しつつある人種問題が背景にありますが、当然賛否両論が噴出。
「財政の崖」をめぐり与野党が対立した際もコーヒーカップに「Come together（団結を）」と書くよう求めたこともあり、彼のことを単なる目立ちがりやと揶揄する人もいますが、彼は一貫して「沈黙を続けるのは我々のやり方ではない」と主張します。
朝の美味しいコーヒーをスタバで飲む時に政治問題は意識したくないというアメリカ国民の気持ちもわかりますが、皆さんはどうお考えですか。
Let’s discuss in English!
記事掲載のWEBSITEはこちらです。
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/19/business/starbucks-race-together-shareholders-meeting.html
英会話上級コース掲示板に戻る。
