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８月は、この６年間に配信した207本の「やさしい英語会話」よりエピソードを厳選し、毎回４本分を濃縮してお届けします。ナチュラルスピードの会話を、スクリプトとともにお楽しみください。ウェブ上で元のエピソードを検索して、解説を聞くこともできます。 第３回の今回のテーマは"Which Is Better?"。スーパーマンvsバットマン、カープvsタイガースなど、それぞれのファン同士が意見を戦わせる会話を選びました。さて、あなたはどちらがお好き...? Image credit: PublicDomainPictures via Pixabay Public Domain CC0. Download MP3 スマートフォン用（テスト中） （8:31 8.3MB 中級〜上級）1. やさしい英語会話 (15) Comics: Superman or Batman? M: Superman. W: Batman. M: Superman! W: Batman! M: Come on now. How can you pick that powerless loser over the strongest man in the Universe? W: How can you pick such a boring emotionless person over the suave Dark Knight? M: Oh really? Well for one Superman is actually super. He didn't buy his powers. W: Well, what Batman lacks in Brawn he has in brain. Anyone can be born with superpowers. It takes a real man to make his own ones. M: Oh yea? Well Superman can fly. W: Batman has the Batwing Jet. M: He can run really fast. W: Why run when you can drive? M: Well, Superman has x-ray vision, ice breath, and many other abilities… W: That I'm sure Batman has, with his brain, figured out how to manipulate and use as a weapon. Face it: Batman is just a lot cooler than Superman. M: I know one thing that Batman doesn't have that Superman does. W: And what would that be? M: Lois Lane. W: He doesn't need a Lois Lane. M: I'm surprised he has used his brain to make a beautiful woman for himself yet. (Written by Tijan Nicholson) 2. やさしい英語会話 (32) Classical or Rock? W: Hi, Tom. What's up? M: Hey, What's up, Yoko? W: Did you get my message yesterday? M: Yeah, I got it! Sorry, I didn't call you back last night. I checked the message in the middle of the night. So, what was that about? W: It's OK. Don't worry. It wasn't urgent. It was just about a concert. M: A concert? W: Yeah, you know Shiori, right? She gave me two concert tickets, and I was wondering if you'd like to come with me. M: Sounds nice. What kind of concert is it? Rock? R&B? W: Sorry, but it's classical music. The Tokyo Philharmonic is coming to Hiroshima next week! M: Uh… I think I'll pass on it. Sorry. Actually, I'm no big fan of classical music…. I mean I fall asleep halfway through classical concerts! W: OK, OK. But think of it this way: you told me that you were really feeling stressed out the other day, right? I heard that classical music is really good at reducing tension and creating inner calm. I think that concert would help you to reduce the stress. M: I see, but thank you anyway, Yoko. I'll pass on the classical music. Ah, I wish that concert was rock! W: Rock? You like rock music that much? M: Yeah!! I love rock music!! Oh, it's darn cool. Everyone loves rock! Don't you? W: Uh…no thanks. I'm no big fan of rock music. It's just… loud. They're just… shouting, and there's no important message. There's no reason to listen to rock music. M: What? You kidding me, Yoko? Rock is fantastic! Rock's the real music! They're singing what we young people like. They're singing about the heart! W: But rock has a bad influence on young people, don't you think? M: That's ancient history, Yoko. No one's thinking that way any more. [sigh] By the way, have you ever listened to rock music? W: Um……no. M: Unbelievable! Hey, why don't you give this CD a try? Then talk about rock music, OK? I think you'll like it! W: OK, thanks. Now, Tom…. Have you decided to go to the classical music concert next week? M: Oh, dear… (Written by Saori Nakanishi) 3. やさしい英語会話 (25) Partying or Studying? M: Hey, Vickie, what are ya gonna do tonight? W: Well, I think I’m gonna study in the library. M: You’re kidding! You wanna study on a Friday night?? Oh, no, no… Vickie, you should relax. You study too much! Let’s go to a club and dance! W: Oh, I'm really sorry, Adam…I can’t. M: OK. I guess that’s a traditional Asian students’ life! W: Yeah, a traditional Asian students’ life! And, I see that you guys like to party! M: Yeah, we go to parties almost every weekend; and we almost always go to a club, too. There’re fewer clubs in Japan and far fewer parties. When I first came to Japan, it really was culture-shock; I just can’t bear this kind of boring life. W: Really? To tell you the truth, I’ve never been to a bar before! Only bad students go bars in China. M: Bad students? Ridiculous, what kind of students are bad students? Hmm… Maybe bars and clubs in Australia are different from those in Asia? They’re not as bad as you think. They’re actually a lot of fun. W: I see. M: I think you should go to clubs or bars once. You should experience the atmosphere there. It's so relaxing! W: Yeah, OK, but maybe some time… M: Oh, so you won't change your mind about tonight, no matter what I say, huh? I’m so sad that I think I’m going to cry! W: Please don't be sad, Adam. I promise I’ll go with you next time. M: Haha, I’m only joking! Hey, typical Asian girl: you’d better study a lot in the library! W: Haha! Yes, sir! (Written by Sun Guangna (Ruby)) 4. やさしい英語会話 (175) Which Team Is Better: The Carp or The Tigers? Situation: A Carp fan and a Tigers fan are about to watch a game in Hiroshima. W: Oh, it's so fun to be here! I really like Mazda Stadium. M: Hey! Who's that guy? He looks pretty important. W: Oh, that's Kenta Maeda! He's a great pitcher! We call him Maeken. I love him! He's got an array of pitches: a fastball, a slider, a changeup, and a curve! M: Yeah, I've heard of him. Are there any other good Carp pitchers? W: I think Takeru Imamura is really good. M: Who's he? I don't know much about him. W: Well…he's a good pitcher, and they say that he'll be a great pitcher in the future. His best pitches are his fastball and slider. But he also throws a forkball about 8% of the time! M: Wow, Tomoko. I see you really, really like baseball and the Carp! But, you know, the Hanshin Tigers are better. W: Oh, really? Are there any good pitchers on the Tigers this year? M: Hmm…I think Atsushi Nomi is a good pitcher. He was on Japan's national team in the World Baseball Classic. W: Hmm… I don't know much about him. M: Really? Boy, you only know about the Carp! Nomi's a great relief pitcher. He's really good at saving games. I watched the game last night, and Nomi was doing a great job. W: But I still like Maeken better. I'm really happy to see him pitching in this game. And we're sitting super-near him! We can see him really close up! M: I still think the Tigers have better pitching and hitting. Also, the atmosphere around the Tigers is really good this year. I hope that the Tigers win it all! W: No way! I'm sure the Carp will win everything this year! The team has a lot of young players. Also they're trying a lot of new things. People say that the Carp have not been champions for a long time, and it's impossible for them to be champions. But I don't believe a word of that! I'm sure that the Carp will win the Japan Series! M: Hey! The game's beginning. Here we go! W: Go Carp Go! M: Come on, Tigers! (Written by Kaho Yasuda)
８月は、この６年間に配信した207本の「やさしい英語会話」よりエピソードを厳選し、毎回４本分を濃縮してお届けします。ナチュラルスピードの会話を、スクリプトとともにお楽しみください。ウェブ上で元のエピソードを検索して、解説を聞くこともできます。 第３回の今回のテーマは"Which Is Better?"。スーパーマンvsバットマン、カープvsタイガースなど、それぞれのファン同士が意見を戦わせる会話を選びました。さて、あなたはどちらがお好き...? Image credit: PublicDomainPictures via Pixabay Public Domain CC0. Download MP3 スマートフォン用（テスト中） （8:31 8.3MB 中級〜上級）1. やさしい英語会話 (15) Comics: Superman or Batman? M: Superman. W: Batman. M: Superman! W: Batman! M: Come on now. How can you pick that powerless loser over the strongest man in the Universe? W: How can you pick such a boring emotionless person over the suave Dark Knight? M: Oh really? Well for one Superman is actually super. He didn't buy his powers. W: Well, what Batman lacks in Brawn he has in brain. Anyone can be born with superpowers. It takes a real man to make his own ones. M: Oh yea? Well Superman can fly. W: Batman has the Batwing Jet. M: He can run really fast. W: Why run when you can drive? M: Well, Superman has x-ray vision, ice breath, and many other abilities… W: That I'm sure Batman has, with his brain, figured out how to manipulate and use as a weapon. Face it: Batman is just a lot cooler than Superman. M: I know one thing that Batman doesn't have that Superman does. W: And what would that be? M: Lois Lane. W: He doesn't need a Lois Lane. M: I'm surprised he has used his brain to make a beautiful woman for himself yet. (Written by Tijan Nicholson) 2. やさしい英語会話 (32) Classical or Rock? W: Hi, Tom. What's up? M: Hey, What's up, Yoko? W: Did you get my message yesterday? M: Yeah, I got it! Sorry, I didn't call you back last night. I checked the message in the middle of the night. So, what was that about? W: It's OK. Don't worry. It wasn't urgent. It was just about a concert. M: A concert? W: Yeah, you know Shiori, right? She gave me two concert tickets, and I was wondering if you'd like to come with me. M: Sounds nice. What kind of concert is it? Rock? R&B? W: Sorry, but it's classical music. The Tokyo Philharmonic is coming to Hiroshima next week! M: Uh… I think I'll pass on it. Sorry. Actually, I'm no big fan of classical music…. I mean I fall asleep halfway through classical concerts! W: OK, OK. But think of it this way: you told me that you were really feeling stressed out the other day, right? I heard that classical music is really good at reducing tension and creating inner calm. I think that concert would help you to reduce the stress. M: I see, but thank you anyway, Yoko. I'll pass on the classical music. Ah, I wish that concert was rock! W: Rock? You like rock music that much? M: Yeah!! I love rock music!! Oh, it's darn cool. Everyone loves rock! Don't you? W: Uh…no thanks. I'm no big fan of rock music. It's just… loud. They're just… shouting, and there's no important message. There's no reason to listen to rock music. M: What? You kidding me, Yoko? Rock is fantastic! Rock's the real music! They're singing what we young people like. They're singing about the heart! W: But rock has a bad influence on young people, don't you think? M: That's ancient history, Yoko. No one's thinking that way any more. [sigh] By the way, have you ever listened to rock music? W: Um……no. M: Unbelievable! Hey, why don't you give this CD a try? Then talk about rock music, OK? I think you'll like it! W: OK, thanks. Now, Tom…. Have you decided to go to the classical music concert next week? M: Oh, dear… (Written by Saori Nakanishi) 3. やさしい英語会話 (25) Partying or Studying? M: Hey, Vickie, what are ya gonna do tonight? W: Well, I think I’m gonna study in the library. M: You’re kidding! You wanna study on a Friday night?? Oh, no, no… Vickie, you should relax. You study too much! Let’s go to a club and dance! W: Oh, I'm really sorry, Adam…I can’t. M: OK. I guess that’s a traditional Asian students’ life! W: Yeah, a traditional Asian students’ life! And, I see that you guys like to party! M: Yeah, we go to parties almost every weekend; and we almost always go to a club, too. There’re fewer clubs in Japan and far fewer parties. When I first came to Japan, it really was culture-shock; I just can’t bear this kind of boring life. W: Really? To tell you the truth, I’ve never been to a bar before! Only bad students go bars in China. M: Bad students? Ridiculous, what kind of students are bad students? Hmm… Maybe bars and clubs in Australia are different from those in Asia? They’re not as bad as you think. They’re actually a lot of fun. W: I see. M: I think you should go to clubs or bars once. You should experience the atmosphere there. It's so relaxing! W: Yeah, OK, but maybe some time… M: Oh, so you won't change your mind about tonight, no matter what I say, huh? I’m so sad that I think I’m going to cry! W: Please don't be sad, Adam. I promise I’ll go with you next time. M: Haha, I’m only joking! Hey, typical Asian girl: you’d better study a lot in the library! W: Haha! Yes, sir! (Written by Sun Guangna (Ruby)) 4. やさしい英語会話 (175) Which Team Is Better: The Carp or The Tigers? Situation: A Carp fan and a Tigers fan are about to watch a game in Hiroshima. W: Oh, it's so fun to be here! I really like Mazda Stadium. M: Hey! Who's that guy? He looks pretty important. W: Oh, that's Kenta Maeda! He's a great pitcher! We call him Maeken. I love him! He's got an array of pitches: a fastball, a slider, a changeup, and a curve! M: Yeah, I've heard of him. Are there any other good Carp pitchers? W: I think Takeru Imamura is really good. M: Who's he? I don't know much about him. W: Well…he's a good pitcher, and they say that he'll be a great pitcher in the future. His best pitches are his fastball and slider. But he also throws a forkball about 8% of the time! M: Wow, Tomoko. I see you really, really like baseball and the Carp! But, you know, the Hanshin Tigers are better. W: Oh, really? Are there any good pitchers on the Tigers this year? M: Hmm…I think Atsushi Nomi is a good pitcher. He was on Japan's national team in the World Baseball Classic. W: Hmm… I don't know much about him. M: Really? Boy, you only know about the Carp! Nomi's a great relief pitcher. He's really good at saving games. I watched the game last night, and Nomi was doing a great job. W: But I still like Maeken better. I'm really happy to see him pitching in this game. And we're sitting super-near him! We can see him really close up! M: I still think the Tigers have better pitching and hitting. Also, the atmosphere around the Tigers is really good this year. I hope that the Tigers win it all! W: No way! I'm sure the Carp will win everything this year! The team has a lot of young players. Also they're trying a lot of new things. People say that the Carp have not been champions for a long time, and it's impossible for them to be champions. But I don't believe a word of that! I'm sure that the Carp will win the Japan Series! M: Hey! The game's beginning. Here we go! W: Go Carp Go! M: Come on, Tigers! (Written by Kaho Yasuda)
新シリーズ「アメリカ探究の旅〜イングリッシュポッドキャスト・英語を学ぶはじめの一歩〜」（Adventure in America）の第９回目です。少し英語が苦手！という皆さんを対象にした、長さもレベルも聞きやすい番組です。しっかり聞いて、しっかり声に出して練習してみましょう。 リディアがジュンをコンサートに誘います。けれどジュンはあまり嬉しくなさそうな様子。その理由とは…？ Download MP3 （7:02 4.5MB 初級） ※毎月第２週目に「アメリカ探究の旅」を２編ずつ配信します。Adventure in America (9) 場面: ジュンとリディアが音楽について話している。 W: Hey, Jun, look at this ad. A concert! Wanna go with me? M: Sounds nice. What kind of concert is it? Rock? R&B? W: Sorry, but it's classical music. The Seattle Symphony Orchestra! M: Ah, I think I'll pass on it. Sorry. Actually, I'm no big fan of classical music. I mean, I fall asleep halfway through classical music concerts! W: OK, OK. But think of it this way: you told me that you were really feeling stressed out the other day, right? I think that concert would help you to reduce the stress. M: I see, but thank you anyway, Lydia. Ah, I wish that concert was rock! W: Rock? You like rock music that much? M: Yeah!! I love rock music!! It's awesome! Everyone loves rock! Don't you? (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
新シリーズ「アメリカ探究の旅〜イングリッシュポッドキャスト・英語を学ぶはじめの一歩〜」（Adventure in America）の第９回目です。少し英語が苦手！という皆さんを対象にした、長さもレベルも聞きやすい番組です。しっかり聞いて、しっかり声に出して練習してみましょう。 リディアがジュンをコンサートに誘います。けれどジュンはあまり嬉しくなさそうな様子。その理由とは…？ Download MP3 （7:02 4.5MB 初級） ※毎月第２週目に「アメリカ探究の旅」を２編ずつ配信します。Adventure in America (9) 場面: ジュンとリディアが音楽について話している。 W: Hey, Jun, look at this ad. A concert! Wanna go with me? M: Sounds nice. What kind of concert is it? Rock? R&B? W: Sorry, but it's classical music. The Seattle Symphony Orchestra! M: Ah, I think I'll pass on it. Sorry. Actually, I'm no big fan of classical music. I mean, I fall asleep halfway through classical music concerts! W: OK, OK. But think of it this way: you told me that you were really feeling stressed out the other day, right? I think that concert would help you to reduce the stress. M: I see, but thank you anyway, Lydia. Ah, I wish that concert was rock! W: Rock? You like rock music that much? M: Yeah!! I love rock music!! It's awesome! Everyone loves rock! Don't you? (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
新シリーズ「アメリカ探究の旅〜イングリッシュポッドキャスト・英語を学ぶはじめの一歩〜」（Adventure in America）の第８回目です。少し英語が苦手！という皆さんを対象にした、長さもレベルも聞きやすい番組です。しっかり聞いて、しっかり声に出して練習してみましょう。 ジュンとリディアの滞在中、フロリダをハリケーンが襲ったようです。ハリケーンに人の名前がつけられているのに興味をもったジュンは、リディアにその理由を聞いています。 Download MP3 （9:22 5.9MB 初級） ※今週は特別編として計８編を一挙にお届けします。 来月からは毎月第２週目に「アメリカ探究の旅」の続きを配信します。Adventure in America (8) 場面: ジュンとリディアが、なぜハリケーンに名前がついているのかについて話しています。 M: Hey, Lydia! Did you hear about the hurricane in Florida this week? W: Yeah, I saw it on the news this morning. M: Hey, I hear they usually give a person's name to hurricanes, like Katrina, Jeanne, or Andrew. Why do they do that? W: Ahh, it's easier to remember than a number, isn't it? I hear they started naming them after women about 60 or 70 years ago. It was first a kind of American humor, like hurricanes were similar to women, and they were difficult to calm down. M: Ha ha. W: Hey, that's NOT very funny. Women are nice! M: Oh, sorry! W: So, in the 70's, they started to give men's names to hurricanes, you know, to be politically correct. M: Wow! That's interesting! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
新シリーズ「アメリカ探究の旅〜イングリッシュポッドキャスト・英語を学ぶはじめの一歩〜」（Adventure in America）の第８回目です。少し英語が苦手！という皆さんを対象にした、長さもレベルも聞きやすい番組です。しっかり聞いて、しっかり声に出して練習してみましょう。 ジュンとリディアの滞在中、フロリダをハリケーンが襲ったようです。ハリケーンに人の名前がつけられているのに興味をもったジュンは、リディアにその理由を聞いています。 Download MP3 （9:22 5.9MB 初級） ※今週は特別編として計８編を一挙にお届けします。 来月からは毎月第２週目に「アメリカ探究の旅」の続きを配信します。Adventure in America (8) 場面: ジュンとリディアが、なぜハリケーンに名前がついているのかについて話しています。 M: Hey, Lydia! Did you hear about the hurricane in Florida this week? W: Yeah, I saw it on the news this morning. M: Hey, I hear they usually give a person's name to hurricanes, like Katrina, Jeanne, or Andrew. Why do they do that? W: Ahh, it's easier to remember than a number, isn't it? I hear they started naming them after women about 60 or 70 years ago. It was first a kind of American humor, like hurricanes were similar to women, and they were difficult to calm down. M: Ha ha. W: Hey, that's NOT very funny. Women are nice! M: Oh, sorry! W: So, in the 70's, they started to give men's names to hurricanes, you know, to be politically correct. M: Wow! That's interesting! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
８月は、2009年9月から2010年7月までの1年間に配信された番組の傑作選をお届けいたします。第１回の今回は"Transportation in Hiroshima"（2009/10/20配信）です。 この時期、多くの外国人観光客が広島を訪れます。広島駅の北にあるユースホステル(Youth Hostel)を利用する人も多く、英語で道（directions）をたずねられたり、教えたりする機会も多いと思います。今回の会話を通じて、そのような際に役立つ表現を復習しましょう。 Download MP3 （13:28 7.8MB 初級～中級）2009/10/20配信「やさしい英語会話 (41)」の再放送です。 *** Script *** (Slow speed) 03:00-04:35 (Natural speed) 09:50-11:10 W: Hey, Yusuke! Do you have time now? M: Yeah, what's up? W: I heard that you're from Hiroshima City. Is that right? M: Oh, I'm from just north of Hiroshima City. Can I help you? W: Yes! I'm going to Hiroshima this weekend and want to ask you how to get to my hotel from Hiroshima Train Station. M: OK. No problem. Where are you staying? I hope I know the place. W: Well, actually I'm going to stay at the youth hostel in—what's it called—Ushita? M: Oh, I know that place! I've passed by there a lot. W: Lucky me! So, first at the train station, what do I do? M: Um… Go out the south exit. That's the exit on the opposite side from the Bullet Train. There's a big fountain outside. W: Oh, so you don't go out the Bullet Train side? M: No, the other side. Then walk a few meters in front of you, to where all the buses are. I think you can take Bus A, B or C. W: OK. M: It costs 220 yen and takes about 25 minutes. Get off at Ushita-shinmachi-itchome. W: Wow, that name sounds difficult… M: Ushita-shinmachi-itchome. Then you cross over the busy road and you'll see a big information board with directions to the youth hostel. I think it takes about 10 minutes to walk from the bus stop. W: Hmm… I hope I can get there. M: Of course, you can! It's as easy as pie! W: OK. I may be OK. If I get lost, can I call you? M: Sure. But I bet you won't get lost. W: I hope not! (Written by Saori Nakanishi and Joe Lauer)
８月は、2009年9月から2010年7月までの1年間に配信された番組の傑作選をお届けいたします。第１回の今回は"Transportation in Hiroshima"（2009/10/20配信）です。 この時期、多くの外国人観光客が広島を訪れます。広島駅の北にあるユースホステル(Youth Hostel)を利用する人も多く、英語で道（directions）をたずねられたり、教えたりする機会も多いと思います。今回の会話を通じて、そのような際に役立つ表現を復習しましょう。 Download MP3 （13:28 7.8MB 初級～中級）2009/10/20配信「やさしい英語会話 (41)」の再放送です。 *** Script *** (Slow speed) 03:00-04:35 (Natural speed) 09:50-11:10 W: Hey, Yusuke! Do you have time now? M: Yeah, what's up? W: I heard that you're from Hiroshima City. Is that right? M: Oh, I'm from just north of Hiroshima City. Can I help you? W: Yes! I'm going to Hiroshima this weekend and want to ask you how to get to my hotel from Hiroshima Train Station. M: OK. No problem. Where are you staying? I hope I know the place. W: Well, actually I'm going to stay at the youth hostel in—what's it called—Ushita? M: Oh, I know that place! I've passed by there a lot. W: Lucky me! So, first at the train station, what do I do? M: Um… Go out the south exit. That's the exit on the opposite side from the Bullet Train. There's a big fountain outside. W: Oh, so you don't go out the Bullet Train side? M: No, the other side. Then walk a few meters in front of you, to where all the buses are. I think you can take Bus A, B or C. W: OK. M: It costs 220 yen and takes about 25 minutes. Get off at Ushita-shinmachi-itchome. W: Wow, that name sounds difficult… M: Ushita-shinmachi-itchome. Then you cross over the busy road and you'll see a big information board with directions to the youth hostel. I think it takes about 10 minutes to walk from the bus stop. W: Hmm… I hope I can get there. M: Of course, you can! It's as easy as pie! W: OK. I may be OK. If I get lost, can I call you? M: Sure. But I bet you won't get lost. W: I hope not! (Written by Saori Nakanishi and Joe Lauer)
６月と言えばジューン・ブライド。今回はそんなロマンティックな月にふさわしい、結婚披露宴（wedding receptions）にまつわる会話です。 友人・知人の結婚披露宴に招かれるのは楽しいもの。一方で日本では出席者が御祝儀を贈る習慣があり、いくらお金を包むべきか悩むこともしばしばあります。会話の男性は日本での結婚披露宴に初めて出席することになり、御祝儀をどうすればよいか、相手の女性に尋ねます。この日本人でも戸惑うことの多い習慣について、女性はどのようなアドバイスをしていますか。 今回お借りした素材 写真（結婚式）：Wikipedia BGM：パブリックドメイン・クラシック Download MP3 （14:00 8.0MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:35-05:10 (Natural speed) 10:10-12:10 Wedding Receptions M: Hey Michiko. My friend, Tom, got married to a Japanese girl 2 weeks ago. They had a wedding in Paris just for their family. W: Wow, sounds sweet! M: Yeah. So they're having a reception to celebrate with their friends next week. And they invited me. But this is the first time for me to go to a Japanese reception. So, I just wondered if you could help me. W: Sure, so what do you want to know about Japanese weddings? M: Yeah, I read a Japanese manner book and it said something about Oshugi. So, Japanese usually give money as a wedding gift, right? How much should I give? W: Oh, I see. I think you don't need to give money because it's a reception, not a wedding ceremony, right? The reason for giving Oshugi is because the wedding ceremony is very expensive. So we give money and support them. But for a wedding party, I usually give a present with my friends. Of course, you can give money. But you pay the fee for the party, right? So I think you don't need to give money. It's up to you. M: Hmm, I see. So if I give money, how much is common? W: Hmm, it's up to you, because the amount of money is decided by how close you guys are. In my case, I went to my best friend's wedding and gave 30,000 yen. On the other hand, I gave 20,000 to my college friends. So it depends on how close you are. And you are still a student, so they'll understand that you don't have to give much. M: Hmmm, I see. And I've heard that people usually give 30,000 yen for Oshugi. But why 30,000 yen? What does that mean? W: Hmmm, I think it's just a kind of Japanese humor, like the number 3 isn't divisible. We hope the couple won't get divorced in the future! M: Ahh, I see. How about 20,000 yen? The number 2 is divisible! W: Ahhh… lately, with the Japanese economic slowdown, it's getting hard to pay a lot. So people also thought that the number 2 was lucky because it means “A Pair”. So it's getting common to give 20,000 yen for Oshugi now. M: Aha, interesting! So Oshugi depends on me, right? I think money is helpful for them, but I want to give something nice, for a lasting memory. Hmm, so I think I'll give a present with my friends! W: I think that's really good! Good luck, then! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
６月と言えばジューン・ブライド。今回はそんなロマンティックな月にふさわしい、結婚披露宴（wedding receptions）にまつわる会話です。 友人・知人の結婚披露宴に招かれるのは楽しいもの。一方で日本では出席者が御祝儀を贈る習慣があり、いくらお金を包むべきか悩むこともしばしばあります。会話の男性は日本での結婚披露宴に初めて出席することになり、御祝儀をどうすればよいか、相手の女性に尋ねます。この日本人でも戸惑うことの多い習慣について、女性はどのようなアドバイスをしていますか。 今回お借りした素材 写真（結婚式）：Wikipedia BGM：パブリックドメイン・クラシック Download MP3 （14:00 8.0MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:35-05:10 (Natural speed) 10:10-12:10 Wedding Receptions M: Hey Michiko. My friend, Tom, got married to a Japanese girl 2 weeks ago. They had a wedding in Paris just for their family. W: Wow, sounds sweet! M: Yeah. So they're having a reception to celebrate with their friends next week. And they invited me. But this is the first time for me to go to a Japanese reception. So, I just wondered if you could help me. W: Sure, so what do you want to know about Japanese weddings? M: Yeah, I read a Japanese manner book and it said something about Oshugi. So, Japanese usually give money as a wedding gift, right? How much should I give? W: Oh, I see. I think you don't need to give money because it's a reception, not a wedding ceremony, right? The reason for giving Oshugi is because the wedding ceremony is very expensive. So we give money and support them. But for a wedding party, I usually give a present with my friends. Of course, you can give money. But you pay the fee for the party, right? So I think you don't need to give money. It's up to you. M: Hmm, I see. So if I give money, how much is common? W: Hmm, it's up to you, because the amount of money is decided by how close you guys are. In my case, I went to my best friend's wedding and gave 30,000 yen. On the other hand, I gave 20,000 to my college friends. So it depends on how close you are. And you are still a student, so they'll understand that you don't have to give much. M: Hmmm, I see. And I've heard that people usually give 30,000 yen for Oshugi. But why 30,000 yen? What does that mean? W: Hmmm, I think it's just a kind of Japanese humor, like the number 3 isn't divisible. We hope the couple won't get divorced in the future! M: Ahh, I see. How about 20,000 yen? The number 2 is divisible! W: Ahhh… lately, with the Japanese economic slowdown, it's getting hard to pay a lot. So people also thought that the number 2 was lucky because it means “A Pair”. So it's getting common to give 20,000 yen for Oshugi now. M: Aha, interesting! So Oshugi depends on me, right? I think money is helpful for them, but I want to give something nice, for a lasting memory. Hmm, so I think I'll give a present with my friends! W: I think that's really good! Good luck, then! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
前回に引き続き、水にまつわる会話をお届けします。 島国の日本では想像しにくいことですが、世界ではひとつの川が何カ国にもまたがっているケースも多く、そのような川は「国際河川」（transboundary river / transboundary water）と呼ばれます。 国際河川を共有する国々は、お互いによく話し合いながら川を使わないと、しばしば外交問題を引き起こします。 たとえば川の上流の国が、自国の水資源確保のためにダムを作ったら、その下流に位置する国にはどのような影響が及ぶでしょうか。 今回はそんな、国境を越えた川の問題について考えてみましょう。 今回お借りした素材 写真（バングラデシュの川）：World66 BGM：パブリックドメイン・クラシック Download MP3 （15:15 8.8MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:10-04:25 (Natural speed) 10:55-12:30 Fresh Water Everywhere? (2) M: And one more thing: I want to tell you about is the water situation in Bangladesh. W: What's that? M: Actually we're facing a serious fresh water problem, especially in the dry season. This matter is called “transboundary water.” W: Transboundary water? What's that? M: Actually, you don't have that problem in Japan because you're surrounded by the sea. But Bangladesh is surrounded by land on three sides. I mean India. You know that, right? W: Yeah, I've checked it before. M: And, for example, a long time ago the Ganges River flowed through India to Bangladesh and enriched the people's lives. But about 30 years ago, India constructed a dam on the Ganges River located in the Indian state of West Bengal, roughly 10 kilometers from the border with Bangladesh. You can imagine what happened to Bangladesh? W: Decreased the amount of water going into Bangladesh from India? M. Right. W: There aren't any agreements between India and Bangladesh regarding using the water? M: Of course, we've talked and made concessions about the problem for a long time. But we're still arguing. Of course, I can understand the situation in India: the many poor, and the country developing rapidly. But I say they are killing us because we need fresh water too. Fresh water should be for everyone! Lots of countries have these transboundary water problems. W: I see. We have to find a solution for that as soon as possible. Thank you for your comments and story. I like to learn about new things like that. Thank you. M: Thank you, too. Let's think of a solution together!! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
前回に引き続き、水にまつわる会話をお届けします。 島国の日本では想像しにくいことですが、世界ではひとつの川が何カ国にもまたがっているケースも多く、そのような川は「国際河川」（transboundary river / transboundary water）と呼ばれます。 国際河川を共有する国々は、お互いによく話し合いながら川を使わないと、しばしば外交問題を引き起こします。 たとえば川の上流の国が、自国の水資源確保のためにダムを作ったら、その下流に位置する国にはどのような影響が及ぶでしょうか。 今回はそんな、国境を越えた川の問題について考えてみましょう。 今回お借りした素材 写真（バングラデシュの川）：World66 BGM：パブリックドメイン・クラシック Download MP3 （15:15 8.8MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:10-04:25 (Natural speed) 10:55-12:30 Fresh Water Everywhere? (2) M: And one more thing: I want to tell you about is the water situation in Bangladesh. W: What's that? M: Actually we're facing a serious fresh water problem, especially in the dry season. This matter is called “transboundary water.” W: Transboundary water? What's that? M: Actually, you don't have that problem in Japan because you're surrounded by the sea. But Bangladesh is surrounded by land on three sides. I mean India. You know that, right? W: Yeah, I've checked it before. M: And, for example, a long time ago the Ganges River flowed through India to Bangladesh and enriched the people's lives. But about 30 years ago, India constructed a dam on the Ganges River located in the Indian state of West Bengal, roughly 10 kilometers from the border with Bangladesh. You can imagine what happened to Bangladesh? W: Decreased the amount of water going into Bangladesh from India? M. Right. W: There aren't any agreements between India and Bangladesh regarding using the water? M: Of course, we've talked and made concessions about the problem for a long time. But we're still arguing. Of course, I can understand the situation in India: the many poor, and the country developing rapidly. But I say they are killing us because we need fresh water too. Fresh water should be for everyone! Lots of countries have these transboundary water problems. W: I see. We have to find a solution for that as soon as possible. Thank you for your comments and story. I like to learn about new things like that. Thank you. M: Thank you, too. Let's think of a solution together!! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
かつては「水と安全はタダで手に入る」と言われた日本でも、最近ではボトル入りのミネラルウォーター（bottled water）がすっかり定着しました。今回と次回は、そんな「水」についてのお話です。 資源の少ない日本は多くの物を輸入（import）に頼っており、水も大量に輸入しています。一方で深刻な水不足（water shortages）に悩む国々も存在します。水の消費大国とも言える日本で、水資源について少し考えてみませんか。 今回お借りした素材 写真：Wikipedia（撮影：Walter J. Pilsak） BGM：パブリックドメイン・クラシック Download MP3 （14:13 8.2MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:35-05:05 (Natural speed) 10:40-12:20 Fresh Water Everywhere? (1) M: Hey Kanako. You don't look so happy. What are you looking at? W: Hey, Islam. Yeah, look at this. This is my water bill from last month. It's SO high. How come!? M: Yeah, that's pretty much. But I think Japanese use too much water compared to other countries, especially Bangladesh. W: Yeah, I guess so. Just the other day I saw a program about water shortages. It said Japanese use the most water per person in the world. But I'm wondering: does that really hurt other countries? I doubt it. M: What do you mean? You think it's not a problem at all? W: I don't mean that. Of course, we should save water. But I don't think our use of water hurts other countries. I mean…. I doubt there would be no poor or problems if we reduced the amount of water we use in Japan. M: Hmm. I see. But you're making one big mistake. Actually, we are using other country's water a lot in Japan. W: What? What do you mean? M: Hey, what's that on your desk? I can see a bottle of water. W: Huh? Oh, this is? ......Evian. Ah. Yeah we are using a little water from other countries. M: I hear Japan is importing a lot of bottled water from overseas even though there's plenty of clean water right here. And you're importing a large number of crops, like corn, wheat, and so on. Those crops need water to grow. W: Hmmm. Yeah, maybe we do have to be careful, because a lot of countries do have serious water problems. M: Don't worry, Kanako. I just wanted you to understand the water problem that we're facing. W: Yeah. Thanks. M: And one more thing I want to tell you about is the water situation in Bangladesh. W: What's that? (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
かつては「水と安全はタダで手に入る」と言われた日本でも、最近ではボトル入りのミネラルウォーター（bottled water）がすっかり定着しました。今回と次回は、そんな「水」についてのお話です。 資源の少ない日本は多くの物を輸入（import）に頼っており、水も大量に輸入しています。一方で深刻な水不足（water shortages）に悩む国々も存在します。水の消費大国とも言える日本で、水資源について少し考えてみませんか。 今回お借りした素材 写真：Wikipedia（撮影：Walter J. Pilsak） BGM：パブリックドメイン・クラシック Download MP3 （14:13 8.2MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:35-05:05 (Natural speed) 10:40-12:20 Fresh Water Everywhere? (1) M: Hey Kanako. You don't look so happy. What are you looking at? W: Hey, Islam. Yeah, look at this. This is my water bill from last month. It's SO high. How come!? M: Yeah, that's pretty much. But I think Japanese use too much water compared to other countries, especially Bangladesh. W: Yeah, I guess so. Just the other day I saw a program about water shortages. It said Japanese use the most water per person in the world. But I'm wondering: does that really hurt other countries? I doubt it. M: What do you mean? You think it's not a problem at all? W: I don't mean that. Of course, we should save water. But I don't think our use of water hurts other countries. I mean…. I doubt there would be no poor or problems if we reduced the amount of water we use in Japan. M: Hmm. I see. But you're making one big mistake. Actually, we are using other country's water a lot in Japan. W: What? What do you mean? M: Hey, what's that on your desk? I can see a bottle of water. W: Huh? Oh, this is? ......Evian. Ah. Yeah we are using a little water from other countries. M: I hear Japan is importing a lot of bottled water from overseas even though there's plenty of clean water right here. And you're importing a large number of crops, like corn, wheat, and so on. Those crops need water to grow. W: Hmmm. Yeah, maybe we do have to be careful, because a lot of countries do have serious water problems. M: Don't worry, Kanako. I just wanted you to understand the water problem that we're facing. W: Yeah. Thanks. M: And one more thing I want to tell you about is the water situation in Bangladesh. W: What's that? (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
今回はアメリカ中西部（The Midwest）に留学している大学生の会話です。中西部の片田舎にある（in the boondocks）大学に留学中の日本人学生。彼がこの場所で恋しがっているものは何でしょうか。また、そんな彼を会話の女性はどのように励まそうとしているでしょうか。 今回お借りした素材 写真（アメリカ中西部の農道）：Wikipedia Download MP3 （15:54 9.2MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:30-04:55 (Natural speed) 12:05-13:50 On a Campus in the Midwestern Part of the US W: So, Michihiro, how's life in the US? Are you getting used to things here? M: Hey, Susan, I'm kind of used to it, but I'm still having a hard time with the food. I really miss Japanese food. W: We've got a good Japanese restaurant here. M: Tokyo Steak House? Yeah, but it's still quite far from the real Japanese food I miss. And Tokyo Steak House is really expensive. Ahh, why did I choose to live in the boondocks here! W: What do you mean? M: Well, last summer I went to New York and saw a lot of good Japanese restaurants. And they were cheap! Ahhh, I wanna go home!! W: Haha. How about that Korean supermarket near the school? I saw a lot of Japanese food there, like miso, soy sauce, and Japanese rice. M: Yeah, Yeah, Yeah. I often go and buy food there. But something's different, and I can't explain what it is. Ahh, I should have learned from my Mom how to cook Japanese food. (Sigh.) W: Hey, do you have any classes tomorrow? M: Yeah, I have a class from 9 to 10. But nothing after 10. W: OK, done! So why don't we go to Minneapolis? There's a good ramen restaurant there. I think it's called Yamato. Do you remember? M: Oh, yeah! Now I remember! But won't that be too late to leave here for Minneapolis? W: Ahh, it's not so far. M: Hmm. Great. Okay, let's go! And can I buy doughnuts at Krispy Kreme in Minneapolis? I miss them so much! W: Sure. I like them, too. M: Yeah! … Sorry, I gotta go to class. W: OK, see you! And call me when you finish the class, OK? M: Okki Dokki! Later! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
今回はアメリカ中西部（The Midwest）に留学している大学生の会話です。中西部の片田舎にある（in the boondocks）大学に留学中の日本人学生。彼がこの場所で恋しがっているものは何でしょうか。また、そんな彼を会話の女性はどのように励まそうとしているでしょうか。 今回お借りした素材 写真（アメリカ中西部の農道）：Wikipedia Download MP3 （15:54 9.2MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:30-04:55 (Natural speed) 12:05-13:50 On a Campus in the Midwestern Part of the US W: So, Michihiro, how's life in the US? Are you getting used to things here? M: Hey, Susan, I'm kind of used to it, but I'm still having a hard time with the food. I really miss Japanese food. W: We've got a good Japanese restaurant here. M: Tokyo Steak House? Yeah, but it's still quite far from the real Japanese food I miss. And Tokyo Steak House is really expensive. Ahh, why did I choose to live in the boondocks here! W: What do you mean? M: Well, last summer I went to New York and saw a lot of good Japanese restaurants. And they were cheap! Ahhh, I wanna go home!! W: Haha. How about that Korean supermarket near the school? I saw a lot of Japanese food there, like miso, soy sauce, and Japanese rice. M: Yeah, Yeah, Yeah. I often go and buy food there. But something's different, and I can't explain what it is. Ahh, I should have learned from my Mom how to cook Japanese food. (Sigh.) W: Hey, do you have any classes tomorrow? M: Yeah, I have a class from 9 to 10. But nothing after 10. W: OK, done! So why don't we go to Minneapolis? There's a good ramen restaurant there. I think it's called Yamato. Do you remember? M: Oh, yeah! Now I remember! But won't that be too late to leave here for Minneapolis? W: Ahh, it's not so far. M: Hmm. Great. Okay, let's go! And can I buy doughnuts at Krispy Kreme in Minneapolis? I miss them so much! W: Sure. I like them, too. M: Yeah! … Sorry, I gotta go to class. W: OK, see you! And call me when you finish the class, OK? M: Okki Dokki! Later! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
今回の話題は「地震とハリケーン」です。東北地方で起こった地震の話をきっかけに、広島で起こった芸予地震や、アメリカのハリケーンについて話します。アメリカではハリケーンに名前をつけるのが慣例ですが、これはどのようにして起こったのでしょうか。 今回は、Hiroshima University's English Podcastが始まってから長い間司会をつとめてくれたJuriさんが出演する最後の回となります。 今回お借りした素材 Hurricane Katrina：Wikipedia Download MP3 （15:04 8.7MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:45-04:45 (Natural speed) 9:35-11:15 Earthquakes and Hurricanes M: Hey, Miki! Did you see the news about the big earthquake in Tohoku this morning? I was sooo surprised! W: Yeah, I did. I was really worried about my friend because he lives in Iwate. That was awful! M: Really? Is your friend OK? W: Yeah, I e-mailed him and he answered that he's fine. But he said that the earthquake was the worst one he'd ever had. M: Are there earthquakes here in Hiroshima? W: Yeah, we've had some, but not much, and not so big like that. M: Really? I've never been in an earthquake. What are they like? W: Hmm. The last one I had in Hiroshima was, maybe 7 or 8 years ago, I think. Because I remember that I was in elementary school. It was big, and was called the Geiyo earthquake. It's because this area is called the Geiyo area. A big earthquake is usually named after the area that had the earthquake. M: Hmm. That's interesting. In the States, we often have tornadoes and hurricanes. Especially to hurricanes, we usually give a woman's or a man's name, like Katrina, Jeanne, or Andrew. W: Yeah, I've heard about that. Katrina is very famous, right? But why do you give a person's name? M: Ahh, I heard that people started to name hurricanes from around World War II. Whether true or not, I heard that it was first a kind of American humor, like hurricanes were similar to women, and they were difficult to calm down. So in the beginning, hurricanes were named only after women. But in the late of 1970's, they started to give man's names to hurricanes, you know, to be politically correct. W: Wow! That's interesting! But I just feel sorry for the person who has the same name as a hurricane, such as Katrina. They might not feel good about their name when it's used for a hurricane. M: Oh, I don't think they care! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
今回の話題は「地震とハリケーン」です。東北地方で起こった地震の話をきっかけに、広島で起こった芸予地震や、アメリカのハリケーンについて話します。アメリカではハリケーンに名前をつけるのが慣例ですが、これはどのようにして起こったのでしょうか。 今回は、Hiroshima University's English Podcastが始まってから長い間司会をつとめてくれたJuriさんが出演する最後の回となります。 今回お借りした素材 Hurricane Katrina：Wikipedia Download MP3 （15:04 8.7MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:45-04:45 (Natural speed) 9:35-11:15 Earthquakes and Hurricanes M: Hey, Miki! Did you see the news about the big earthquake in Tohoku this morning? I was sooo surprised! W: Yeah, I did. I was really worried about my friend because he lives in Iwate. That was awful! M: Really? Is your friend OK? W: Yeah, I e-mailed him and he answered that he's fine. But he said that the earthquake was the worst one he'd ever had. M: Are there earthquakes here in Hiroshima? W: Yeah, we've had some, but not much, and not so big like that. M: Really? I've never been in an earthquake. What are they like? W: Hmm. The last one I had in Hiroshima was, maybe 7 or 8 years ago, I think. Because I remember that I was in elementary school. It was big, and was called the Geiyo earthquake. It's because this area is called the Geiyo area. A big earthquake is usually named after the area that had the earthquake. M: Hmm. That's interesting. In the States, we often have tornadoes and hurricanes. Especially to hurricanes, we usually give a woman's or a man's name, like Katrina, Jeanne, or Andrew. W: Yeah, I've heard about that. Katrina is very famous, right? But why do you give a person's name? M: Ahh, I heard that people started to name hurricanes from around World War II. Whether true or not, I heard that it was first a kind of American humor, like hurricanes were similar to women, and they were difficult to calm down. So in the beginning, hurricanes were named only after women. But in the late of 1970's, they started to give man's names to hurricanes, you know, to be politically correct. W: Wow! That's interesting! But I just feel sorry for the person who has the same name as a hurricane, such as Katrina. They might not feel good about their name when it's used for a hurricane. M: Oh, I don't think they care! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
寒い季節になると特に恋しくなる「ラーメン」が今回のテーマ。広島では醤油ベース（a soy-sauce base）、福岡では豚骨（pork bone）というふうに、日本にはそれぞれの地域に独特のラーメン文化が根付いていますね。皆さんのお住まいの地域で食されているラーメンの特徴を英語で説明できるようにしておくのも面白いと思います。 今回お借りした素材 尾道ラーメン：Wikipedia Download MP3 （16:11 9.3MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:15-04:25 (Natural speed) 12:20-14:10 Ramen M: Ohh. I'm stuffed. That was great. W: Yeah, it was pretty good. M: This ramen restaurant is not known as the best ramen restaurant in Higashi Hiroshima for nothing! W: Yeah, it's worth it. But if I had to say, I'd say that it's a little too salty. I prefer tonkotsu-ramen. You know that I am from Fukuoka. M: Oh, ya, right. I heard that ramen has different tastes from region to region. You said… tonkotsu? Not tonkatsu? W: Yeah. Fukuoka's famous for tonkotsu ramen. That's got a pork bone in it. Hiroshima's famous for a soy-sauce base. Hokkaido's known for miso ramen, and so on. I think people miss their own tastes of ramen sometimes. I sometimes miss tonkotsu ramen so much that I run out to Seven-eleven to buy instant noodles in the middle of night! Haha! M: Ahaha, right. I'm always surprised by the wide variety of instant noodles. I almost feel overwhelmed by all those options!! They all look so nice. I've never seen such a variety of noodles in Australia. W: Oh really? M: But, Miki. Now, I got a question. How many tastes of ramen do you have in Japan? So, there's, pork…I mean tonkotsu. And miso, right? There's soy-based…And what else?? Oh, yeah. I almost forgot…Salt, today we had it! W: Hmmmm. I really don't know, Jed. But I can say this. There are so many kinds and tastes of ramen. And you know ramen is evolving everyday. M: E…evolving? W: Yeah, I mean new kinds and tastes of ramen are being created everyday. Japanese love ramen. So people are always looking for new kinds and tastes of ramen. M: I see. On TV there are so many programs about ramen restaurants. I can see Japanese really love ramen. W: Right. We lo----ve ramen! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
寒い季節になると特に恋しくなる「ラーメン」が今回のテーマ。広島では醤油ベース（a soy-sauce base）、福岡では豚骨（pork bone）というふうに、日本にはそれぞれの地域に独特のラーメン文化が根付いていますね。皆さんのお住まいの地域で食されているラーメンの特徴を英語で説明できるようにしておくのも面白いと思います。 今回お借りした素材 尾道ラーメン：Wikipedia Download MP3 （16:11 9.3MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:15-04:25 (Natural speed) 12:20-14:10 Ramen M: Ohh. I'm stuffed. That was great. W: Yeah, it was pretty good. M: This ramen restaurant is not known as the best ramen restaurant in Higashi Hiroshima for nothing! W: Yeah, it's worth it. But if I had to say, I'd say that it's a little too salty. I prefer tonkotsu-ramen. You know that I am from Fukuoka. M: Oh, ya, right. I heard that ramen has different tastes from region to region. You said… tonkotsu? Not tonkatsu? W: Yeah. Fukuoka's famous for tonkotsu ramen. That's got a pork bone in it. Hiroshima's famous for a soy-sauce base. Hokkaido's known for miso ramen, and so on. I think people miss their own tastes of ramen sometimes. I sometimes miss tonkotsu ramen so much that I run out to Seven-eleven to buy instant noodles in the middle of night! Haha! M: Ahaha, right. I'm always surprised by the wide variety of instant noodles. I almost feel overwhelmed by all those options!! They all look so nice. I've never seen such a variety of noodles in Australia. W: Oh really? M: But, Miki. Now, I got a question. How many tastes of ramen do you have in Japan? So, there's, pork…I mean tonkotsu. And miso, right? There's soy-based…And what else?? Oh, yeah. I almost forgot…Salt, today we had it! W: Hmmmm. I really don't know, Jed. But I can say this. There are so many kinds and tastes of ramen. And you know ramen is evolving everyday. M: E…evolving? W: Yeah, I mean new kinds and tastes of ramen are being created everyday. Japanese love ramen. So people are always looking for new kinds and tastes of ramen. M: I see. On TV there are so many programs about ramen restaurants. I can see Japanese really love ramen. W: Right. We lo----ve ramen! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
先週に引き続き、ポッドキャストでマレーシア（Malaysia）を旅してみましょう。今回は多民族国家ゆえの悩みともいえる人種（race）の問題についての話です。 会話によれば、マレーシアには「ブミプトラ政策」(bumiputraism)という政策があり、どうやらこれは批判を受けているようです。ブミプトラ政策とはどのようなもので、なぜ批判されているのでしょうか。 今回の話題は私たちには少しなじみが薄いかも知れませんが、日本にも多くの外国人が住むようになった現在、多民族国家マレーシアの問題は決して人ごとではないと思われます。 今回お借りした素材 プトラジャヤ（クアラルンプール近郊にあるマレーシアの首都機能移転都市）：Wikipedia Download MP3 （20:47 12MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 03:20-06:15 (Natural speed) 15:15-17:40 Race in Malaysia and Japan (In a café) W: Now we can sit down and talk! So, what was the problem in Malaysia? Of course, it's strongly related to its multi-ethnicity, right? M: Yep. The center part of this problem is called “bumiputraism” which means the New Economic Policy. W: Hmm… Is that some kind of racial-preference policy? M: Yeah. I'm surprised! You may know better than me! W: Not really. And then? M: Anyway, this economic policy is a Malay-first policy. And it means “son of soil”. Here's the background: In 1969, an insurrection broke out between Malays and Chinese because of economic disparities among ethnic groups. W: OK, then? M: Then, the government adopted this racial-preference policy to achieve national unity by raising the economic and social positions of Malays and indigenous people. W: But isn't that a kind of racism, against non-Malays? M: Probably. I've read some papers and they said that there were some organizations that called for the abolition of the policy. But the government stamped down on the dissident movements. W: That's awful! Don't you think? M: Yes, I do. But on the other hand, I can understand the reasons for the racial-preference policy. It could be silly thinking, though. W: Tell me what you think. M: This is a very simple idea: this could happen in Japan, too! The population in Japan is decreasing, right? Which means that the number of employees in Japan is also decreasing. So, a lot of foreigners are coming into Japan as workers. Then, imagine Japan in the future. What will you think and feel if almost half of the population in Japan is from other countries? Will there be anti-non-Japanese policies? W: Hmm. I got your point. Let me think about it. M: Yeah, it's not easy to answer. But we all have to face this problem now or later. W: Yeah, thank you, Mike. Now I have a lot of things to study and write about. Can you read my paper and give some comments later? M: Sure! I'm looking forward to it! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
先週に引き続き、ポッドキャストでマレーシア（Malaysia）を旅してみましょう。今回は多民族国家ゆえの悩みともいえる人種（race）の問題についての話です。 会話によれば、マレーシアには「ブミプトラ政策」(bumiputraism)という政策があり、どうやらこれは批判を受けているようです。ブミプトラ政策とはどのようなもので、なぜ批判されているのでしょうか。 今回の話題は私たちには少しなじみが薄いかも知れませんが、日本にも多くの外国人が住むようになった現在、多民族国家マレーシアの問題は決して人ごとではないと思われます。 今回お借りした素材 プトラジャヤ（クアラルンプール近郊にあるマレーシアの首都機能移転都市）：Wikipedia Download MP3 （20:47 12MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 03:20-06:15 (Natural speed) 15:15-17:40 Race in Malaysia and Japan (In a café) W: Now we can sit down and talk! So, what was the problem in Malaysia? Of course, it's strongly related to its multi-ethnicity, right? M: Yep. The center part of this problem is called “bumiputraism” which means the New Economic Policy. W: Hmm… Is that some kind of racial-preference policy? M: Yeah. I'm surprised! You may know better than me! W: Not really. And then? M: Anyway, this economic policy is a Malay-first policy. And it means “son of soil”. Here's the background: In 1969, an insurrection broke out between Malays and Chinese because of economic disparities among ethnic groups. W: OK, then? M: Then, the government adopted this racial-preference policy to achieve national unity by raising the economic and social positions of Malays and indigenous people. W: But isn't that a kind of racism, against non-Malays? M: Probably. I've read some papers and they said that there were some organizations that called for the abolition of the policy. But the government stamped down on the dissident movements. W: That's awful! Don't you think? M: Yes, I do. But on the other hand, I can understand the reasons for the racial-preference policy. It could be silly thinking, though. W: Tell me what you think. M: This is a very simple idea: this could happen in Japan, too! The population in Japan is decreasing, right? Which means that the number of employees in Japan is also decreasing. So, a lot of foreigners are coming into Japan as workers. Then, imagine Japan in the future. What will you think and feel if almost half of the population in Japan is from other countries? Will there be anti-non-Japanese policies? W: Hmm. I got your point. Let me think about it. M: Yeah, it's not easy to answer. But we all have to face this problem now or later. W: Yeah, thank you, Mike. Now I have a lot of things to study and write about. Can you read my paper and give some comments later? M: Sure! I'm looking forward to it! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
今回は本ポッドキャストでマレーシア（Malaysia）を旅してみましょう。会話に登場する男性は最近マレーシアに行ってきたとのこと。彼はこの国の安い物価やおいしい食べ物、それに親切な人々が気に入った様子です。多民族国家（a multiethnic country）のため英語も通じやすいとのことで、一度は訪れてみたい国です。 今回お借りした素材 ペトロナスツインタワー（マレーシアの首都クアラルンプールにある超高層ビル）：Wikipedia Download MP3 （17:27 10MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:55-06:20 (Natural speed) 13:30-15:35 Visiting Malaysia W: Hey Zack, how was your trip to Malaysia last month? I often hear that Malaysia's a nice place to go to. M: Malaysia was fabulous, Hiromi! It was cheap. The food was delicious. The people were very friendly. And the people can speak very good English. W: Oh, they have a good English curriculum, do they? M: Maybe. Actually, Malaysia's a multiethnic country. The largest ethnic groups in Malaysia are the Malays, Chinese, and Indians. So they speak Chinese and Malaysian. And English is used to communicate between ethnic groups. W: Wow, really? M: Yeah. I was very surprised at first. But it's true. For example, they have a big Chinese community. I was staying in a Chinatown because it was cheap. They all are Chinese, and speak Chinese. Then I felt like I was in China! W: Haha. It could be a difficult problem in Malaysia, right? I mean, multiethnic countries have a lot of troubles between ethnic groups, right? Did you feel that in Malaysia? M: Actually no. Because I was really having a good time in Malaysia! Haha W: You're really a happy guy, huh? M: Take it easy, Hiromi. But I did study Malaysian history after I got back to Japan. And I noticed I was a very happy man… Oh, I visited Malaysia in the middle of a nation-wide election campaign. W: Oh, THAT sounds interesting. So what other things did you think about Malaysia? M: Like I was saying: I'm a happy-go-lucky guy, and I really was having a good time in Malaysia. So I didn't think anything about the election. I hardly knew such a big election was going on in Malaysia at that time. But now I know some about Malaysian history and policies. W: What is it? Changing of the governing party? M: Yeah, it's related to that… But why are you so interested in Malaysian politics? W: Yeah, I have to study hard because of a term paper. M: A term paper? W: Yeah, I have to hand in a term paper about politics by this Friday. Then, suddenly you're here with an interesting topic and a lot of resources. Thank you very much. M: You're a lucky girl, Hiromi! Why don't we go to a cafeteria and talk about Malaysia? W: Very nice! It's a done deal! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
今回は本ポッドキャストでマレーシア（Malaysia）を旅してみましょう。会話に登場する男性は最近マレーシアに行ってきたとのこと。彼はこの国の安い物価やおいしい食べ物、それに親切な人々が気に入った様子です。多民族国家（a multiethnic country）のため英語も通じやすいとのことで、一度は訪れてみたい国です。 今回お借りした素材 ペトロナスツインタワー（マレーシアの首都クアラルンプールにある超高層ビル）：Wikipedia Download MP3 （17:27 10MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:55-06:20 (Natural speed) 13:30-15:35 Visiting Malaysia W: Hey Zack, how was your trip to Malaysia last month? I often hear that Malaysia's a nice place to go to. M: Malaysia was fabulous, Hiromi! It was cheap. The food was delicious. The people were very friendly. And the people can speak very good English. W: Oh, they have a good English curriculum, do they? M: Maybe. Actually, Malaysia's a multiethnic country. The largest ethnic groups in Malaysia are the Malays, Chinese, and Indians. So they speak Chinese and Malaysian. And English is used to communicate between ethnic groups. W: Wow, really? M: Yeah. I was very surprised at first. But it's true. For example, they have a big Chinese community. I was staying in a Chinatown because it was cheap. They all are Chinese, and speak Chinese. Then I felt like I was in China! W: Haha. It could be a difficult problem in Malaysia, right? I mean, multiethnic countries have a lot of troubles between ethnic groups, right? Did you feel that in Malaysia? M: Actually no. Because I was really having a good time in Malaysia! Haha W: You're really a happy guy, huh? M: Take it easy, Hiromi. But I did study Malaysian history after I got back to Japan. And I noticed I was a very happy man… Oh, I visited Malaysia in the middle of a nation-wide election campaign. W: Oh, THAT sounds interesting. So what other things did you think about Malaysia? M: Like I was saying: I'm a happy-go-lucky guy, and I really was having a good time in Malaysia. So I didn't think anything about the election. I hardly knew such a big election was going on in Malaysia at that time. But now I know some about Malaysian history and policies. W: What is it? Changing of the governing party? M: Yeah, it's related to that… But why are you so interested in Malaysian politics? W: Yeah, I have to study hard because of a term paper. M: A term paper? W: Yeah, I have to hand in a term paper about politics by this Friday. Then, suddenly you're here with an interesting topic and a lot of resources. Thank you very much. M: You're a lucky girl, Hiromi! Why don't we go to a cafeteria and talk about Malaysia? W: Very nice! It's a done deal! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
今回は広島市内の交通機関についてのお話です。道（directions）をたずねたり、教えたりするための表現を学びましょう。 会話の女性は、広島駅から東区牛田新町１丁目にあるユースホステル(Youth Hostel)に行く道を知りたいようです。男性によると、広島駅のどの出口から、どのような交通機関に乗るとよいでしょうか。また、広島駅には「南口」「新幹線口」の２つの出口がありますが、それぞれどのように言えばよいでしょうか。 Download MP3 （13:02 7.5MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:35-04:10 (Natural speed) 09:30-10:45 W: Hey, Yusuke! Do you have time now? M: Yeah, what's up? W: I heard that you're from Hiroshima City. Is that right? M: Oh, I'm from just north of Hiroshima City. Can I help you? W: Yes! I'm going to Hiroshima this weekend and want to ask you how to get to my hotel from Hiroshima Train Station. M: OK. No problem. Where are you staying? I hope I know the place. W: Well, actually I'm going to stay at the youth hostel in—what's it called—Ushita? M: Oh, I know that place! I've passed by there a lot. W: Lucky me! So, first at the train station, what do I do? M: Um… Go out the south exit. That's the exit on the opposite side from the Bullet Train. There's a big fountain outside. W: Oh, so you don't go out the Bullet Train side? M: No, the other side. Then walk a few meters in front of you, to where all the buses are. I think you can take Bus A, B or C. W: OK. M: It costs 220 yen and takes about 25 minutes. Get off at Ushita-shinmachi-itchome. W: Wow, that name sounds difficult… M: Ushita-shinmachi-itchome. Then you cross over the busy road and you'll see a big information board with directions to the youth hostel. I think it takes about 10 minutes to walk from the bus stop. W: Hmm… I hope I can get there. M: Of course, you can! It's as easy as pie! W: OK. I may be OK. If I get lost, can I call you? M: Sure. But I bet you won't get lost. W: I hope not! (Written by Saori Nakanishi and Joe Lauer)
今回は広島市内の交通機関についてのお話です。道（directions）をたずねたり、教えたりするための表現を学びましょう。 会話の女性は、広島駅から東区牛田新町１丁目にあるユースホステル(Youth Hostel)に行く道を知りたいようです。男性によると、広島駅のどの出口から、どのような交通機関に乗るとよいでしょうか。また、広島駅には「南口」「新幹線口」の２つの出口がありますが、それぞれどのように言えばよいでしょうか。 Download MP3 （13:02 7.5MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:35-04:10 (Natural speed) 09:30-10:45 W: Hey, Yusuke! Do you have time now? M: Yeah, what's up? W: I heard that you're from Hiroshima City. Is that right? M: Oh, I'm from just north of Hiroshima City. Can I help you? W: Yes! I'm going to Hiroshima this weekend and want to ask you how to get to my hotel from Hiroshima Train Station. M: OK. No problem. Where are you staying? I hope I know the place. W: Well, actually I'm going to stay at the youth hostel in—what's it called—Ushita? M: Oh, I know that place! I've passed by there a lot. W: Lucky me! So, first at the train station, what do I do? M: Um… Go out the south exit. That's the exit on the opposite side from the Bullet Train. There's a big fountain outside. W: Oh, so you don't go out the Bullet Train side? M: No, the other side. Then walk a few meters in front of you, to where all the buses are. I think you can take Bus A, B or C. W: OK. M: It costs 220 yen and takes about 25 minutes. Get off at Ushita-shinmachi-itchome. W: Wow, that name sounds difficult… M: Ushita-shinmachi-itchome. Then you cross over the busy road and you'll see a big information board with directions to the youth hostel. I think it takes about 10 minutes to walk from the bus stop. W: Hmm… I hope I can get there. M: Of course, you can! It's as easy as pie! W: OK. I may be OK. If I get lost, can I call you? M: Sure. But I bet you won't get lost. W: I hope not! (Written by Saori Nakanishi and Joe Lauer)
今回はサンフランシスコにある日本料理のレストランが舞台です。前回と同様に、囲炉裏を囲んで男女が会話をしている場面です。 この会話ではいくつかの日本料理の英語表現が登場します。「あゆの塩焼き」は英語で何と言えばよいのでしょうか。また、会話に登場する"Japanese style spaghetti"とは何のことでしょうか。 今回の会話に出てくる表現のうち、レストランで注文をする表現や、乾杯をする時の表現なども、ぜひ覚えておきましょう。 今回お借りした素材 写真（あゆの塩焼き）：Wikipedia Download MP3 （15:54 9.1MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:35-05:40 (Natural speed) 11:50-13:55 (At a traditional Japanese restaurant in San Francisco, sitting around an irori) M: I really like this fireplace. Hey, Yoko, we should order the food first, then talk. W: Yeah, right! I'm starving. Let's order. M: Sure. What do you recommend? You've been here before, right? W: Yeah, let me think…well, do you like chicken? This restaurant has the best chicken in San Francisco. And salad, sashimi, and…Oh! How about broiled ayu with salt? I think chicken and ayu is the specialty of this restaurant. M: What's ayu? W: A kind of freshwater trout. M: Sounds nice! OK, we'll have them all! W: Okki dokki. Excuse me, Can we order? Well, we'll have salad, sashimi, 2 chickens and 2 ayus. And two bowls of rice, please. M: And this Japanese style spaghetti, please. M2: Sure, we'll bring it in a bit. (brief pause) W: What!? Spaghetti? You really eat a lot, eat like a horse. M: A horse? That's good! Haha, I like it! I eat like a horse, so I'm not a “dietaholic” like you. W: Oh. I like that word, a dietaholic. Ha-ha. M: So, you are still on a diet? You don't need a diet at all. W: I do! Hey, let's change the topic! We always end up without any progress. I think I need a diet, and YOU think I don't need a diet. That's all, OK? (10 minutes later) M: So, this is the chicken you recommended. Wow, it looks great! I didn't think it would be on a skewer! The fish is also on a skewer, isn't it! It's very cute and interesting. W: Ahaha. Hey, Zack, do you know that the skewer has a meaning? This is why we have the fireplace here, in front of us! M: Oh, hmmmmmmm. I gotcha! So we can warm the chicken within the fireplace? W: Yep. M: Sounds fun! W: Good to eat! Good to see each other! The irori is very nice! M: We can kill two birds with one stone, can't we! W: Yeah!! To the fireplace! M: To the fireplace!! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
今回はサンフランシスコにある日本料理のレストランが舞台です。前回と同様に、囲炉裏を囲んで男女が会話をしている場面です。 この会話ではいくつかの日本料理の英語表現が登場します。「あゆの塩焼き」は英語で何と言えばよいのでしょうか。また、会話に登場する"Japanese style spaghetti"とは何のことでしょうか。 今回の会話に出てくる表現のうち、レストランで注文をする表現や、乾杯をする時の表現なども、ぜひ覚えておきましょう。 今回お借りした素材 写真（あゆの塩焼き）：Wikipedia Download MP3 （15:54 9.1MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:35-05:40 (Natural speed) 11:50-13:55 (At a traditional Japanese restaurant in San Francisco, sitting around an irori) M: I really like this fireplace. Hey, Yoko, we should order the food first, then talk. W: Yeah, right! I'm starving. Let's order. M: Sure. What do you recommend? You've been here before, right? W: Yeah, let me think…well, do you like chicken? This restaurant has the best chicken in San Francisco. And salad, sashimi, and…Oh! How about broiled ayu with salt? I think chicken and ayu is the specialty of this restaurant. M: What's ayu? W: A kind of freshwater trout. M: Sounds nice! OK, we'll have them all! W: Okki dokki. Excuse me, Can we order? Well, we'll have salad, sashimi, 2 chickens and 2 ayus. And two bowls of rice, please. M: And this Japanese style spaghetti, please. M2: Sure, we'll bring it in a bit. (brief pause) W: What!? Spaghetti? You really eat a lot, eat like a horse. M: A horse? That's good! Haha, I like it! I eat like a horse, so I'm not a “dietaholic” like you. W: Oh. I like that word, a dietaholic. Ha-ha. M: So, you are still on a diet? You don't need a diet at all. W: I do! Hey, let's change the topic! We always end up without any progress. I think I need a diet, and YOU think I don't need a diet. That's all, OK? (10 minutes later) M: So, this is the chicken you recommended. Wow, it looks great! I didn't think it would be on a skewer! The fish is also on a skewer, isn't it! It's very cute and interesting. W: Ahaha. Hey, Zack, do you know that the skewer has a meaning? This is why we have the fireplace here, in front of us! M: Oh, hmmmmmmm. I gotcha! So we can warm the chicken within the fireplace? W: Yep. M: Sounds fun! W: Good to eat! Good to see each other! The irori is very nice! M: We can kill two birds with one stone, can't we! W: Yeah!! To the fireplace! M: To the fireplace!! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
今回のテーマは「囲炉裏と家族の交流」です。 少し昔の日本の映画やドラマでは、家族が囲炉裏（fireplaces）を囲んで交流する場面がたびたび描かれています。囲炉裏は暖房や料理のほかに、家族の集う場として大切な役割を持っていました。 時代は変わり、囲炉裏のある家屋はすっかり姿を消してしまいましたが、家族の会話はどうなったのでしょうか・・・。 今回お借りした素材 写真（囲炉裏）：Wikipedia Download MP3 （18:55 10.9MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:12-05:30 (Natural speed) 14:20-16:53 (At a traditional Japanese restaurant) M: Hey, look at this! It's an irori, right? Wow! It's awesome! W: Yes, it's a traditional Japanese fireplace. M: In olden days, these fireplaces were used for cooking and heating the room, right? W: Yeah. Wow, I'm kind of surprised. I didn't know you were so interested in these fireplaces. You know, there are other ways to use these fireplaces, besides cooking and heating rooms. Of course, those were the main purposes. But my grandpa told me that iroris were places for communication in the family. Now, most people just use living rooms. M: I see. W: Years ago, we didn't have heating appliances for each room. So families got together and casually talked around the fireplace. My grandpa sometimes tells me that a lot of parents today can't understand their children and don't know what they are thinking about. He says that it's because we don't have these kinds of fireplaces any more. So, families don't have conversations like they used to. M: Hmmm, that's interesting. I think your grandpa's right. Now, here in Japan, there's a heater in every room. And also, there's a TV set in each room. Hmm… I love TVs and heaters, but children don't come out from their own rooms because they have everything they need in the room. It's no wonder that there's less conversation in families. Boy, that's bad. W: Yeah, it's not good. M: How about your family? You have conversations with your parents? W: Of course. I love my family. I think I talk with my parents more than other kids do. This is probably because I'm grown up. Of course, there was a time when I didn't like my parents. And I didn't talk to them at all, especially to my dad. Hmm… I had a lot of respect for him, but he kept nagging me all the time. “Clean this, study that…” So I didn't like him, and we didn't have conversations at all at that time. M: Yeah, I know what you mean. But it's a part of the resistance phase. All young people go through it. Of course, I did too. W: Yeah, but sometimes Japanese young people do too much, I think…like..what I did. M: What did you do? W: I asked my mom to wash my clothes and dad's clothes separately! M: Oh, my. Your poor father! W: I know I was wrong. Sorry dad! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
今回のテーマは「囲炉裏と家族の交流」です。 少し昔の日本の映画やドラマでは、家族が囲炉裏（fireplaces）を囲んで交流する場面がたびたび描かれています。囲炉裏は暖房や料理のほかに、家族の集う場として大切な役割を持っていました。 時代は変わり、囲炉裏のある家屋はすっかり姿を消してしまいましたが、家族の会話はどうなったのでしょうか・・・。 今回お借りした素材 写真（囲炉裏）：Wikipedia Download MP3 （18:55 10.9MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** (Slow speed) 02:12-05:30 (Natural speed) 14:20-16:53 (At a traditional Japanese restaurant) M: Hey, look at this! It's an irori, right? Wow! It's awesome! W: Yes, it's a traditional Japanese fireplace. M: In olden days, these fireplaces were used for cooking and heating the room, right? W: Yeah. Wow, I'm kind of surprised. I didn't know you were so interested in these fireplaces. You know, there are other ways to use these fireplaces, besides cooking and heating rooms. Of course, those were the main purposes. But my grandpa told me that iroris were places for communication in the family. Now, most people just use living rooms. M: I see. W: Years ago, we didn't have heating appliances for each room. So families got together and casually talked around the fireplace. My grandpa sometimes tells me that a lot of parents today can't understand their children and don't know what they are thinking about. He says that it's because we don't have these kinds of fireplaces any more. So, families don't have conversations like they used to. M: Hmmm, that's interesting. I think your grandpa's right. Now, here in Japan, there's a heater in every room. And also, there's a TV set in each room. Hmm… I love TVs and heaters, but children don't come out from their own rooms because they have everything they need in the room. It's no wonder that there's less conversation in families. Boy, that's bad. W: Yeah, it's not good. M: How about your family? You have conversations with your parents? W: Of course. I love my family. I think I talk with my parents more than other kids do. This is probably because I'm grown up. Of course, there was a time when I didn't like my parents. And I didn't talk to them at all, especially to my dad. Hmm… I had a lot of respect for him, but he kept nagging me all the time. “Clean this, study that…” So I didn't like him, and we didn't have conversations at all at that time. M: Yeah, I know what you mean. But it's a part of the resistance phase. All young people go through it. Of course, I did too. W: Yeah, but sometimes Japanese young people do too much, I think…like..what I did. M: What did you do? W: I asked my mom to wash my clothes and dad's clothes separately! M: Oh, my. Your poor father! W: I know I was wrong. Sorry dad! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
広島大学でも前期末を迎え、学生はテストやレポート（term paper）の準備に追われています。今回は、この「レポート」をテーマに取り上げます。 会話に登場する男性は、明日までに提出しなければいけないレポートのことをすっかり忘れている様子。レポートのテーマは「企業の社会的責任」（CSR=Corporate Social Responsibility）。相手の女性はあきれながらも、そんな怠け者の男性のことを少し助けてあげようとします。果たして彼はこの危機を乗り越えることができるのでしょうか。 Download MP3 （21:30 12.4MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** W: Zack, let's go out tonight!! M: I wish I could, but I have to hand in a term paper by tomorrow! So I better pass on it, but thanks for asking. W: It's alright, but you still have a term paper? What class for? M: Environmental Management 201. I've been stuck with that paper. What did YOU write about? W: Kidding me? You've not handed in that one yet? Oh, gosh. It'll take long to finish up that paper. How much have you already done? M: Um, none at all…haha W: What!? Zack, how about the topic? You already decided it? M: Yeah, I'm thinking to write about Japanese companies' voluntary activities in society. W: Be more specific, please. I may be able to help you. M: So, to be more specific, I'm gonna write about CSR, Corporate Social Responsibility. I'm very interested in CSR, and have some ideas about it. W: Did you already collect the materials and data? Actually, I've also written a bit about CSR in Japan. So I can give you some materials and data if you need. M: That's really appreciated!! Thank you, Michiko. Can I get them now? W: Sure, I have them in my house. So can you come over now? M: No problem. Thanks. (On the way to Michiko's house) W: So what's your idea to write about? And how are you gonna start writing? In my case, I focused on two home electric appliance companies and compared their accomplishments and policies concerning environmental management. M: Oh, that's a good one! I'm thinking to discuss about the history of CSR in Japan. Especially, I want to focus on a Japanese company, Fuji Xerox. I think they're a good example of a company that succeeded in CSR and is now leading the other companies in environmental management in Japan. So, I want to make clear how Fuji Xerox established their way in environmental management, and how they might impact the other companies. Sounds interesting, huh? W: Then why haven't you finished writing the paper? You already have a clear view of environmental management, right? M: Yeah. To tell the truth, I had just totally forgotten about that term paper, then remembered yesterday…haha. W: Oh, my… (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
広島大学でも前期末を迎え、学生はテストやレポート（term paper）の準備に追われています。今回は、この「レポート」をテーマに取り上げます。 会話に登場する男性は、明日までに提出しなければいけないレポートのことをすっかり忘れている様子。レポートのテーマは「企業の社会的責任」（CSR=Corporate Social Responsibility）。相手の女性はあきれながらも、そんな怠け者の男性のことを少し助けてあげようとします。果たして彼はこの危機を乗り越えることができるのでしょうか。 Download MP3 （21:30 12.4MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** W: Zack, let's go out tonight!! M: I wish I could, but I have to hand in a term paper by tomorrow! So I better pass on it, but thanks for asking. W: It's alright, but you still have a term paper? What class for? M: Environmental Management 201. I've been stuck with that paper. What did YOU write about? W: Kidding me? You've not handed in that one yet? Oh, gosh. It'll take long to finish up that paper. How much have you already done? M: Um, none at all…haha W: What!? Zack, how about the topic? You already decided it? M: Yeah, I'm thinking to write about Japanese companies' voluntary activities in society. W: Be more specific, please. I may be able to help you. M: So, to be more specific, I'm gonna write about CSR, Corporate Social Responsibility. I'm very interested in CSR, and have some ideas about it. W: Did you already collect the materials and data? Actually, I've also written a bit about CSR in Japan. So I can give you some materials and data if you need. M: That's really appreciated!! Thank you, Michiko. Can I get them now? W: Sure, I have them in my house. So can you come over now? M: No problem. Thanks. (On the way to Michiko's house) W: So what's your idea to write about? And how are you gonna start writing? In my case, I focused on two home electric appliance companies and compared their accomplishments and policies concerning environmental management. M: Oh, that's a good one! I'm thinking to discuss about the history of CSR in Japan. Especially, I want to focus on a Japanese company, Fuji Xerox. I think they're a good example of a company that succeeded in CSR and is now leading the other companies in environmental management in Japan. So, I want to make clear how Fuji Xerox established their way in environmental management, and how they might impact the other companies. Sounds interesting, huh? W: Then why haven't you finished writing the paper? You already have a clear view of environmental management, right? M: Yeah. To tell the truth, I had just totally forgotten about that term paper, then remembered yesterday…haha. W: Oh, my… (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
広島も急に暑くなってきました。今回のテーマは夏のファッションにおける男女の違いです。会話の中の男性は、真夏の暑さにもかかわらずレギンス（leggings）やストール（stole）を身につけて重ね着（several layers of clothes）している女性を見て、しきりに不思議がっています。また、Joeも「男女の違いは日本人とアメリカ人の違いよりも大きい」と考えているようです。さて、皆さんはどのように考えますか？ Download MP3 （18:30 10.7MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** M: Hey, Yuki! What's up? W: Hey, Zack. I'm OK. Boy, it sure is hot today, isn't it? I love summer, but this is too much! M: Yeah, It is. But, before you say you feel hot, I think you should dress for summer. W: What do you mean? M: I mean, I think you shouldn't wear pants under the skirt. Also, you don't need to wear more than one T-shirt. And why do you have a scarf wrapped around your neck in this middle of summer!! Crazy! I can understand why you feel hot, because you're wearing so much!! W: Ahh, you mean this? These are not pants. They're crop leggings. They're much thinner than normal pants. Also, these are made using breathable materials. So it's not hot like you imagine. And I'll give you one more comment: this is NOT a “scarf”. It's a “stole”. This pink stole accents my coordination today. It's cute, right? M: Yeah, it is. But still I think you're wearing too many clothes. W: Hmmm. Some of my friends from oversea also say the same thing, that I'm wearing too much. Even one of my friends told me that I was not an eco-person. That's so funny. She says I'm helping global warming because I'm wearing a lot. M: Helping global warming?….Haha, I like it. W: (Sad) Very funny. Thanks. M: Hey. I didn't mean it! I was only kidding. W: I know, Zack. I' m just kidding YOU. But I'm not wearing all these things for nothing. This is my style. I like wearing several layers of clothes and playing with colors. And this kind of fashion is very hot in Japan now. I like fashions, and want to look good always. M: I see, and I think you have good taste in clothes. But why do Japanese women want to cover their legs and body shapes? You guys are skinny, have beautiful legs! I think you should show yourselves more!! W: Ahaha, thank you for the man's opinion, my friend! But, I think different cultures have different ways of thinking. Also men and women have different ways of thinking, too! M: Oh oh. Maybe I shouldn't get involved in women's matters. W: Ahaha. That's right! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
広島も急に暑くなってきました。今回のテーマは夏のファッションにおける男女の違いです。会話の中の男性は、真夏の暑さにもかかわらずレギンス（leggings）やストール（stole）を身につけて重ね着（several layers of clothes）している女性を見て、しきりに不思議がっています。また、Joeも「男女の違いは日本人とアメリカ人の違いよりも大きい」と考えているようです。さて、皆さんはどのように考えますか？ Download MP3 （18:30 10.7MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** M: Hey, Yuki! What's up? W: Hey, Zack. I'm OK. Boy, it sure is hot today, isn't it? I love summer, but this is too much! M: Yeah, It is. But, before you say you feel hot, I think you should dress for summer. W: What do you mean? M: I mean, I think you shouldn't wear pants under the skirt. Also, you don't need to wear more than one T-shirt. And why do you have a scarf wrapped around your neck in this middle of summer!! Crazy! I can understand why you feel hot, because you're wearing so much!! W: Ahh, you mean this? These are not pants. They're crop leggings. They're much thinner than normal pants. Also, these are made using breathable materials. So it's not hot like you imagine. And I'll give you one more comment: this is NOT a “scarf”. It's a “stole”. This pink stole accents my coordination today. It's cute, right? M: Yeah, it is. But still I think you're wearing too many clothes. W: Hmmm. Some of my friends from oversea also say the same thing, that I'm wearing too much. Even one of my friends told me that I was not an eco-person. That's so funny. She says I'm helping global warming because I'm wearing a lot. M: Helping global warming?….Haha, I like it. W: (Sad) Very funny. Thanks. M: Hey. I didn't mean it! I was only kidding. W: I know, Zack. I' m just kidding YOU. But I'm not wearing all these things for nothing. This is my style. I like wearing several layers of clothes and playing with colors. And this kind of fashion is very hot in Japan now. I like fashions, and want to look good always. M: I see, and I think you have good taste in clothes. But why do Japanese women want to cover their legs and body shapes? You guys are skinny, have beautiful legs! I think you should show yourselves more!! W: Ahaha, thank you for the man's opinion, my friend! But, I think different cultures have different ways of thinking. Also men and women have different ways of thinking, too! M: Oh oh. Maybe I shouldn't get involved in women's matters. W: Ahaha. That's right! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
リスナーの皆さんはどのような音楽が好みでしょうか。今回の会話では、女性（Yoko）がロック好きの男性（Tom）をクラシック音楽（classical music）のコンサートに誘います。はたしてTomはどのような反応を見せるのでしょうか・・・。 今回お借りした素材 BGM：パブリックドメイン・クラシック（クラシック好きの方におすすめ！） 写真（ベートーベンの肖像画）：Wikipedia Download MP3 （16:27 9.5MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** W: Hi, Tom. What's up? M: Hey, What's up, Yoko? W: Did you get my message yesterday? M: Yeah, I got it! Sorry, I didn't call you back last night. I checked the message in the middle of the night. So, what was that about? W: It's OK. Don't worry. It wasn't urgent. It was just about a concert. M: A concert? W: Yeah, you know Shiori, right? She gave me two concert tickets, and I was wondering if you'd like to come with me. M: Sounds nice. What kind of concert is it? Rock? R&B? W: Sorry, but it's classical music. The Tokyo Philharmonic is coming to Hiroshima next week! M: Uh… I think I'll pass on it. Sorry. Actually, I'm no big fan of classical music…. I mean I fall asleep halfway through classical concerts! W: OK, OK. But think of it this way: you told me that you were really feeling stressed out the other day, right? I heard that classical music is really good at reducing tension and creating inner calm. I think that concert would help you to reduce the stress. M: I see, but thank you anyway, Yoko. I'll pass on the classical music. Ah, I wish that concert was rock! W: Rock? You like rock music that much? M: Yeah!! I love rock music!! Oh, it's darn cool. Everyone loves rock! Don't you? W: Uh…no thanks. I'm no big fan of rock music. It's just… loud. They're just… shouting, and there's no important message. There's no reason to listen to rock music. M: What? You kidding me, Yoko? Rock is fantastic! Rock's the real music! They're singing what we young people like. They're singing about the heart! W: But rock has a bad influence on young people, don't you think? M: That's ancient history, Yoko. No one's thinking that way any more. [sigh] By the way, have you ever listened to rock music? W: Um……no. M: Unbelievable! Hey, why don't you give this CD a try? Then talk about rock music, OK? I think you'll like it! W: OK, thanks. Now, Tom…. Have you decided to go to the classical music concert next week? M: Oh, dear… (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
リスナーの皆さんはどのような音楽が好みでしょうか。今回の会話では、女性（Yoko）がロック好きの男性（Tom）をクラシック音楽（classical music）のコンサートに誘います。はたしてTomはどのような反応を見せるのでしょうか・・・。 今回お借りした素材 BGM：パブリックドメイン・クラシック（クラシック好きの方におすすめ！） 写真（ベートーベンの肖像画）：Wikipedia Download MP3 （16:27 9.5MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** W: Hi, Tom. What's up? M: Hey, What's up, Yoko? W: Did you get my message yesterday? M: Yeah, I got it! Sorry, I didn't call you back last night. I checked the message in the middle of the night. So, what was that about? W: It's OK. Don't worry. It wasn't urgent. It was just about a concert. M: A concert? W: Yeah, you know Shiori, right? She gave me two concert tickets, and I was wondering if you'd like to come with me. M: Sounds nice. What kind of concert is it? Rock? R&B? W: Sorry, but it's classical music. The Tokyo Philharmonic is coming to Hiroshima next week! M: Uh… I think I'll pass on it. Sorry. Actually, I'm no big fan of classical music…. I mean I fall asleep halfway through classical concerts! W: OK, OK. But think of it this way: you told me that you were really feeling stressed out the other day, right? I heard that classical music is really good at reducing tension and creating inner calm. I think that concert would help you to reduce the stress. M: I see, but thank you anyway, Yoko. I'll pass on the classical music. Ah, I wish that concert was rock! W: Rock? You like rock music that much? M: Yeah!! I love rock music!! Oh, it's darn cool. Everyone loves rock! Don't you? W: Uh…no thanks. I'm no big fan of rock music. It's just… loud. They're just… shouting, and there's no important message. There's no reason to listen to rock music. M: What? You kidding me, Yoko? Rock is fantastic! Rock's the real music! They're singing what we young people like. They're singing about the heart! W: But rock has a bad influence on young people, don't you think? M: That's ancient history, Yoko. No one's thinking that way any more. [sigh] By the way, have you ever listened to rock music? W: Um……no. M: Unbelievable! Hey, why don't you give this CD a try? Then talk about rock music, OK? I think you'll like it! W: OK, thanks. Now, Tom…. Have you decided to go to the classical music concert next week? M: Oh, dear… (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
６月は教育実習（teaching practice）の季節です。広島大学でも多くの学生が実習に参加し、貴重な経験を得ました。 今回の会話では、１ヶ月間の教育実習を終えたサオリ（Saori）が、マイク（Mike）にその感想を話します。「教えることは大変（tough）だけど、それだけの価値がある（rewarding）」という彼女の言葉は、教育実習を経験した人はもちろんですが、人に何かを教えた経験のある人なら、きっと共感するのではないでしょうか。 ところでJoeも教育実習の経験があるようですが、日本では考えられないような場所で実習を行ったようです。また、アメリカでの教員免許取得事情の話も登場します。 今回お借りした素材 画像：Open Clip Art Library Download MP3 （15:50 9.1MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** M: Hey, Saori! It's been a while! How have you been? W: Hey, Mike. I had teaching practice at a junior high for a month. So that's why you haven't seen me around. M: Oh, I didn't know that you were trying to get a teaching license. So you'll be a teacher, will you? W: Actually, probably not. Of course, teaching is an option in the future. But Mike, you know, I really really want to be a researcher, right? M: Yeah, that's what I thought. So I was surprised when you said... W: If I take just a few classes in teacher education, I can get a license. Which means, I can be a certificated teacher for no extra tuition! Pretty lucky, hey? M: Boy, that is interesting. So, how was the practice teaching? W: Very hard! I thought teaching would only be fun, because I like kids. But now I think teaching is the toughest job around, and I have a lot of respect for teachers. M: So, tell me more about the practice teaching. What was so hard? W: Hmmm... I think the hardest thing was….not to teach wrong … and to keep the quality of teaching high….I think. M: What do you mean? W: Well, I didn't teach the materials wrong. I studied a lot before the classes. And I was ready to teach. But on the first day, when I stood up in front of students, my mind suddenly went blank! At first, I didn't know what to say! M: Ho, teaching IS tough, huh? W: Yeah, it is. But later I found the real joy of teaching. When I taught, and looked into their eyes, children responded to me. Of course, there were many problem kids. But if I tried to understand them, and faced them, I could see that they were learning! That was really impressive, and I was so touched. So, in conclusion, it's true that teaching is tough, but at the same time, it's also rewarding! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
６月は教育実習（teaching practice）の季節です。広島大学でも多くの学生が実習に参加し、貴重な経験を得ました。 今回の会話では、１ヶ月間の教育実習を終えたサオリ（Saori）が、マイク（Mike）にその感想を話します。「教えることは大変（tough）だけど、それだけの価値がある（rewarding）」という彼女の言葉は、教育実習を経験した人はもちろんですが、人に何かを教えた経験のある人なら、きっと共感するのではないでしょうか。 ところでJoeも教育実習の経験があるようですが、日本では考えられないような場所で実習を行ったようです。また、アメリカでの教員免許取得事情の話も登場します。 今回お借りした素材 画像：Open Clip Art Library Download MP3 （15:50 9.1MB 初級～中級）*** Script *** M: Hey, Saori! It's been a while! How have you been? W: Hey, Mike. I had teaching practice at a junior high for a month. So that's why you haven't seen me around. M: Oh, I didn't know that you were trying to get a teaching license. So you'll be a teacher, will you? W: Actually, probably not. Of course, teaching is an option in the future. But Mike, you know, I really really want to be a researcher, right? M: Yeah, that's what I thought. So I was surprised when you said... W: If I take just a few classes in teacher education, I can get a license. Which means, I can be a certificated teacher for no extra tuition! Pretty lucky, hey? M: Boy, that is interesting. So, how was the practice teaching? W: Very hard! I thought teaching would only be fun, because I like kids. But now I think teaching is the toughest job around, and I have a lot of respect for teachers. M: So, tell me more about the practice teaching. What was so hard? W: Hmmm... I think the hardest thing was….not to teach wrong … and to keep the quality of teaching high….I think. M: What do you mean? W: Well, I didn't teach the materials wrong. I studied a lot before the classes. And I was ready to teach. But on the first day, when I stood up in front of students, my mind suddenly went blank! At first, I didn't know what to say! M: Ho, teaching IS tough, huh? W: Yeah, it is. But later I found the real joy of teaching. When I taught, and looked into their eyes, children responded to me. Of course, there were many problem kids. But if I tried to understand them, and faced them, I could see that they were learning! That was really impressive, and I was so touched. So, in conclusion, it's true that teaching is tough, but at the same time, it's also rewarding! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
2007年に完結したハリー・ポッター・シリーズですが、英語で読んでみたいという人も多いのではないでしょうか。今回の会話は、まだ日本語の翻訳が揃っていなかった頃のお話。物語の結末を知ろうと一生懸命にハリー・ポッターの原書と格闘している女性を、男性がからかって（tease）いる様子です。 ところでハリー・ポッターの原書は、魔法の呪文（magic spells）など物語特有の表現に慣れれば比較的読みやすいので、ぜひ挑戦してみてください。番組の最後では、Joeが英語の本を読むときのこつを紹介しています。 Download MP3 （15:03 8.7MB 初級～中級） *** Script *** M: Hey!!!! W: Crazy!? You scared me!!! I was reading! M: Good. Hey, you're still reading Harry Potter? Are you ever gonna finish that? W: Very soon!! M: Why did you start reading in English? There's a Japanese version, isn't there? I know you like speaking English, but I thought you didn't like reading English. What changed? W: Would you mind, Mike? I'm reading now. Don't talk to me. M: Hey, Saori. Come on. Why so testy? W: (Sigh) Sorry, Mike. I just have…you know…a headache. M: A headache? That's because you are trying new things. Stop reading! W: But I want to know what happens to Harry in the end! Of course, there'll be a Japanese version someday. I think it's gonna be next year. But I can't wait! M: Ahhh, I got it. So there isn't a Japanese version yet. That's why you started reading it in English. Sorry about that. W: Did you already read it? M: Yeah, I finished it last month, on the published day!! It was a very good ending, my friend! W: Oh, you're so sweet, Mike. M: Yeah, I know. W: I meant to be sarcastic. M: Yes! I know. Hey, I can help you read! W: So, can you summarize this page? There are too many magic spells here. M: You mean only this page? Kidding me? I can summarize the whole book. That's much easier, right? So in the end, Harry… W: Hey, stop! What are you thinking about!? Crazy? I've been reading this book for more than a month. Are you going to spoil my excitement? M: Hey, calm down, Saori. I'm just kidding you. Don't get mad like that! W: I'm mad because of you. You always tease me! You're such a jerk, Mike!!!! M: Yes, just a jerk who wants to go to the cafeteria with you. Shall we? W: Hmmm, that sounds good. Let's do it! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
2007年に完結したハリー・ポッター・シリーズですが、英語で読んでみたいという人も多いのではないでしょうか。今回の会話は、まだ日本語の翻訳が揃っていなかった頃のお話。物語の結末を知ろうと一生懸命にハリー・ポッターの原書と格闘している女性を、男性がからかって（tease）いる様子です。 ところでハリー・ポッターの原書は、魔法の呪文（magic spells）など物語特有の表現に慣れれば比較的読みやすいので、ぜひ挑戦してみてください。番組の最後では、Joeが英語の本を読むときのこつを紹介しています。 Download MP3 （15:03 8.7MB 初級～中級） *** Script *** M: Hey!!!! W: Crazy!? You scared me!!! I was reading! M: Good. Hey, you're still reading Harry Potter? Are you ever gonna finish that? W: Very soon!! M: Why did you start reading in English? There's a Japanese version, isn't there? I know you like speaking English, but I thought you didn't like reading English. What changed? W: Would you mind, Mike? I'm reading now. Don't talk to me. M: Hey, Saori. Come on. Why so testy? W: (Sigh) Sorry, Mike. I just have…you know…a headache. M: A headache? That's because you are trying new things. Stop reading! W: But I want to know what happens to Harry in the end! Of course, there'll be a Japanese version someday. I think it's gonna be next year. But I can't wait! M: Ahhh, I got it. So there isn't a Japanese version yet. That's why you started reading it in English. Sorry about that. W: Did you already read it? M: Yeah, I finished it last month, on the published day!! It was a very good ending, my friend! W: Oh, you're so sweet, Mike. M: Yeah, I know. W: I meant to be sarcastic. M: Yes! I know. Hey, I can help you read! W: So, can you summarize this page? There are too many magic spells here. M: You mean only this page? Kidding me? I can summarize the whole book. That's much easier, right? So in the end, Harry… W: Hey, stop! What are you thinking about!? Crazy? I've been reading this book for more than a month. Are you going to spoil my excitement? M: Hey, calm down, Saori. I'm just kidding you. Don't get mad like that! W: I'm mad because of you. You always tease me! You're such a jerk, Mike!!!! M: Yes, just a jerk who wants to go to the cafeteria with you. Shall we? W: Hmmm, that sounds good. Let's do it! (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
「中古の品物を買う」が今回のテーマ。Yokoは冷蔵庫（fridge）が故障したので買い替えようと考えますが、新品は高くて手が出せません。そこでMikeは中古の冷蔵庫はどうかとアドバイスします。Yokoは中古の家電についてどのように考えているのでしょうか、そして結局どうすることに決めたのでしょうか。 Download MP3 *** Script *** M: Hey, Yoko! What's up? W: Hey, Mike. I'm OK. Nothing new. Boy, it sure is hot outside, isn't it? M: Yeah. It must be a hundred out there. So, what are you reading? (Looking at the title of a catalog) Home Electric Appliances? W: Yeah. I'm thinking of buying a new fridge. But you know, they're really expensive. M: Let me see......wow, yeah, they are!... What kind of a budget do you have? W: About three to five thousand yen? M: What? You kidding? You're not buying a CD, you know. You're buying a fridge! W: Yeah, I know. But I have no money now. What should I do? I'm really in big trouble because my fridge is broken and it's boiling out there, Uhh. I can't buy any raw fish. And I can't have ice cream after a bath. And, and there's nothing like a cold beer after my bath!! Ohhhh, I need a fridge!! M: Okay, O-kay, Yoko! Calm down, okay? Let me think...hmmm...five thousand yen for a fridge....five thousand....Hey! How about a used one? I know a good recycling shop!! I think maybe we can find one there. W: A used one? Oh, that's a good idea!! But.... Ah, I think I'll pass on it. It's probably not so good for the environment. M: What? What do you mean it's not good for environment? W: You know, Mike. These days I'm studying about global warming. Used electric appliances are not environmentally efficient. According to one thing I read, new fridges are now ten times more energy efficient than the ones ten years ago. Did you know that? M: Hey hey hey! Hold on! Environmental efficiency? What are you talking about? W: Oh Mike, you must be kidding me. You really don't know what environmental efficiency is? Okay, let me tell you about it. Environmental efficiency is a kind of strategy that links financial and environmental performance to create more value with less ecological impact. Of course, there's the other idea that we should use used electric appliances as part of the 3Rs: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Some studies even say that recycling electric appliances is more environmentally efficient if we think about the LCA of electricity. Of course I agree with some points, but I... M: Hey, hey, hey. Stop! What are you talking about now? We were talking about your fridge, huh? We're NOT talking about environmental problems. Remember, we are now talking about a problem causing difficulties in your life, not an environmental problem. Remember that, okay? [sigh] Now, let's get back to our topic. So which will you buy for now, cheap or expensive? W: Um... a cheap one.... M. OK, done. Do you need a ride to the recycle store? W: Yes, thank you, Mike. Let's go now. (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
「中古の品物を買う」が今回のテーマ。Yokoは冷蔵庫（fridge）が故障したので買い替えようと考えますが、新品は高くて手が出せません。そこでMikeは中古の冷蔵庫はどうかとアドバイスします。Yokoは中古の家電についてどのように考えているのでしょうか、そして結局どうすることに決めたのでしょうか。 Download MP3 *** Script *** M: Hey, Yoko! What's up? W: Hey, Mike. I'm OK. Nothing new. Boy, it sure is hot outside, isn't it? M: Yeah. It must be a hundred out there. So, what are you reading? (Looking at the title of a catalog) Home Electric Appliances? W: Yeah. I'm thinking of buying a new fridge. But you know, they're really expensive. M: Let me see......wow, yeah, they are!... What kind of a budget do you have? W: About three to five thousand yen? M: What? You kidding? You're not buying a CD, you know. You're buying a fridge! W: Yeah, I know. But I have no money now. What should I do? I'm really in big trouble because my fridge is broken and it's boiling out there, Uhh. I can't buy any raw fish. And I can't have ice cream after a bath. And, and there's nothing like a cold beer after my bath!! Ohhhh, I need a fridge!! M: Okay, O-kay, Yoko! Calm down, okay? Let me think...hmmm...five thousand yen for a fridge....five thousand....Hey! How about a used one? I know a good recycling shop!! I think maybe we can find one there. W: A used one? Oh, that's a good idea!! But.... Ah, I think I'll pass on it. It's probably not so good for the environment. M: What? What do you mean it's not good for environment? W: You know, Mike. These days I'm studying about global warming. Used electric appliances are not environmentally efficient. According to one thing I read, new fridges are now ten times more energy efficient than the ones ten years ago. Did you know that? M: Hey hey hey! Hold on! Environmental efficiency? What are you talking about? W: Oh Mike, you must be kidding me. You really don't know what environmental efficiency is? Okay, let me tell you about it. Environmental efficiency is a kind of strategy that links financial and environmental performance to create more value with less ecological impact. Of course, there's the other idea that we should use used electric appliances as part of the 3Rs: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Some studies even say that recycling electric appliances is more environmentally efficient if we think about the LCA of electricity. Of course I agree with some points, but I... M: Hey, hey, hey. Stop! What are you talking about now? We were talking about your fridge, huh? We're NOT talking about environmental problems. Remember, we are now talking about a problem causing difficulties in your life, not an environmental problem. Remember that, okay? [sigh] Now, let's get back to our topic. So which will you buy for now, cheap or expensive? W: Um... a cheap one.... M. OK, done. Do you need a ride to the recycle store? W: Yes, thank you, Mike. Let's go now. (Written by Saori Nakanishi)
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