a. Why can't women drive in Saudi Arabia?
 b. What else can't women do in Saudi Arabia?  Why?
 c. Do you think women and men are equal in Japan now? Why?
 d. Do you think women and men should be equal in Japan now? Why?
 e. 100 years ago, what couldn't women do in Japan?  
 f. Do you drive a car? What would you do if you couldn't?

CLASS 11 6/28/2011

 Listen to the news story for 6/21 at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

  Do you drive?  What if you couldn't? Read Saudi women defy driving ban at http://edition.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/meast/06/17/saudi.women.drivers/index.html

 a.
 b.

 Lady Gaga sued!! Read all about it at http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2008775/Lady-Gaga-sued-making-money-Japan-earthquake-aid-wristbands.html

CLASS 10 6/21/2011

 Listen to the news stories for 6/7 and 6/14 at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

  Rain Rain GO AWAY!  Read Heavy rain continues to fall in southwestern Japan at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110613a2.html

 a. Do you like the rainy season? Why or why not?
 b. Have you had any trouble because of the recent rains? If yes, what?
 c. Have you ever seen a flood or a landslide?  When?
 d. Do you know the song "Rain rain go away"?  http://www.gfes.tpc.edu.tw/board/abc-song/raingo.swf
 e. How do you come to school when it rains?
 f. What did you think of the child artist? Can you paint like that?
 g. What did you think of the contortionist? Have you ever seen contortionists? Where and when?

For 6/28/2011

  Do you drive?  What if you couldn't? Read Saudi women defy driving ban at http://edition.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/meast/06/17/saudi.women.drivers/index.html

CLASS 9 6/14/2011

1. Read Apple unveils 'iCloud' storage, new operating systems at http://edition.cnn.com/2011/TECH/mobile/06/06/apple.wwdc/index.html?iref=allsearch

2. Watch the CNN video at http://edition.cnn.com/2011/TECH/mobile/06/06/apple.wwdc/index.html?iref=allsearch

 a. What kind of internet-enabled devices do you have?
 b. Do you have trouble finding your data?
 c. What do you think of smart phones?  Do you have one? Do you want one?
 d. Do you understand cloud computing? Explain your understanding.
 e. Do you want a keyboard on your portable device?
 f. Do you think people are bad at f2f communication nowadays?

For 6/21/2011

  Rain Rain GO AWAY!  Read Heavy rain continues to fall in southwestern Japan at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110613a2.html

CLASS 8 6/7/2011

1. Quiz about the Japanese political situation at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110531a4.html

2. Listen to the Youtube news at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMoXuwkq2_8

 a. Do you think Prime Minister Kan is doing a good job? Why or why not?
 b. Do you think anyone could do a good job now?
 c. In America Presidents must serve for four years. Do you think this is a good idea or not?
 d. What do you think of the no confidence vote system? 

For 6/14/2011

  Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

  Read Apple unveils 'iCloud' storage, new operating systems at http://edition.cnn.com/2011/TECH/mobile/06/06/apple.wwdc/index.html?iref=allsearch

CLASS 7 6/1/2011

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Read about vacations in America at http://www.cnn.com/2011/TRAVEL/05/23/vacation.in.america/index.html?hpt=P1&iref=NS1

3. Chat questions

 e. How do you come to school when it rains?
 f. What did you think of the child artist? Can you paint like that?
 g. What did you think of the contortionist? Have you ever seen contortionists? Where and when?

 Listen to the news stories for 6/7 and 6/14 at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

  Do you drive?  What if you couldn't? Read Saudi women defy driving ban at http://edition.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/meast/06/17/saudi.women.drivers/index.html

CLASS 10 6/21/2011

 Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

  Rain Rain GO AWAY!  Read Heavy rain continues to fall in southwestern Japan at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110613a2.html

 a. Do you like the rainy season? Why or why not?
 b. Have you had any trouble because of the recent rains? If yes, what?
 c. Have you ever seen a flood or a landslide?  When?
 d. Do you know the song "Rain rain go away"?  http://www.gfes.tpc.edu.tw/board/abc-song/raingo.swf
 e. 
 f. 

For 6/28/2011

  Read Heavy rain continues to fall in southwestern Japan at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110613a2.html

CLASS 9 6/14/2011

1. Read Apple unveils 'iCloud' storage, new operating systems at http://edition.cnn.com/2011/TECH/mobile/06/06/apple.wwdc/index.html?iref=allsearch

2. Watch the CNN video at http://edition.cnn.com/2011/TECH/mobile/06/06/apple.wwdc/index.html?iref=allsearch

 a. What kind of internet-enabled devices do you have?
 b. Do you have trouble finding your data?
 c. What do you think of smart phones?  Do you have one? Do you want one?
 d. Do you understand cloud computing? Explain your understanding.
 e. Do you want a keyboard on your portable device?
 f. Do you think people are bad at f2f communication nowadays?

For 6/21/2011

  Rain Rain GO AWAY!  Read Heavy rain continues to fall in southwestern Japan at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110613a2.html

CLASS 8 6/7/2011

1. Quiz about the Japanese political situation at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110531a4.html

2. Listen to the Youtube news at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMoXuwkq2_8

 a. Do you think Prime Minister Kan is doing a good job? Why or why not?
 b. Do you think anyone could do a good job now?
 c. In America Presidents must serve for four years. Do you think this is a good idea or not?
 d. What do you think of the no confidence vote system? 

For 6/14/2011

  Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

  Read Apple unveils 'iCloud' storage, new operating systems at http://edition.cnn.com/2011/TECH/mobile/06/06/apple.wwdc/index.html?iref=allsearch

CLASS 7 6/1/2011

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Read about vacations in America at http://www.cnn.com/2011/TRAVEL/05/23/vacation.in.america/index.html?hpt=P1&iref=NS1

3. Chat questions

 e. Do you want a keyboard on your portable device?
 f. Do you think people are bad at f2f communication nowadays?

 d. Do you understand cloud computing? Explain your understanding.

  Rain Rain GO AWAY!  Read Heavy rain continues to fall in southwestern Japan at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110613a2.html

CLASS 9 6/14/2011

1. Read Apple unveils 'iCloud' storage, new operating systems at http://edition.cnn.com/2011/TECH/mobile/06/06/apple.wwdc/index.html?iref=allsearch

2. Watch the CNN video at http://edition.cnn.com/2011/TECH/mobile/06/06/apple.wwdc/index.html?iref=allsearch

 a. What kind of internet-enabled devices do you have?
 b. Do you have trouble finding your data?
 c. What do you think of smart phones?  Do you have one? Do you want one?
 d. Do you understand cloud computing?
 e. How will cloud computing revolutionize the future of computers? 

For 6/21/2011

CLASS 8 6/7/2011

1. Quiz about the Japanese political situation at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110531a4.html

2. Listen to the Youtube news at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMoXuwkq2_8

 a. Do you think Prime Minister Kan is doing a good job? Why or why not?
 b. Do you think anyone could do a good job now?
 c. In America Presidents must serve for four years. Do you think this is a good idea or not?
 d. What do you think of the no confidence vote system? 

For 6/14/2011

  Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

  Read Apple unveils 'iCloud' storage, new operating systems at http://edition.cnn.com/2011/TECH/mobile/06/06/apple.wwdc/index.html?iref=allsearch

CLASS 7 6/1/2011

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Read about vacations in America at http://www.cnn.com/2011/TRAVEL/05/23/vacation.in.america/index.html?hpt=P1&iref=NS1

3. Chat questions

 a. Do you think Prime Minister Kan is doing a good job? Why or why not?
 b. Do you think anyone could do a good job now?
 c. In America Presidents must serve for four years. Do you think this is a good idea or not?
 d. What do you think of the no confidence vote system? 

1. Quiz about the Japanese political situation at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110531a4.html

2. Listen to the Youtube news at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMoXuwkq2_8

2. Quiz about the Japanese political situation at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110531a4.html

CLASS 8 6/7/2011

2. Quiz about the Japanese political situation at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110531a4.htm

2. Read about vacations in America at http://www.cnn.com/2011/TRAVEL/05/23/vacation.in.america/index.html?hpt=P1&iref=NS1

l

CLASS 8 6/7/2011

2. Quiz about the Japanese political situation at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110531a4.htm

 a. ?
 b. ?
 c. ?
 d. ? 

For 6/14/2011

  Read 

CLASS 7 6/1/2011

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Read http://www.cnn.com/2011/TRAVEL/05/23/vacation.in.america/index.html?hpt=P1&iref=NS1

 a. Were you surprised that many American workers have no paid vacation?
 b. What do you think is important in a job, money, security, or benefits that give quality of life?
 c. What kind of job do you want to do in the future?
 d. What kind of work do you do now? 

For next week 6/7/2011

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Quiz about the Japanese political situation at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110531a4.htm

CLASS 6 5/17/2011:

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Quiz and listen to Student times article about yakiniku

 a. What did you think of this news?
 b. Have you ever eaten yukke?
 c. Have you ever experienced food poisoning?
 d. How do you think the restaurant should treat their customers who got sick? 

For 5/31

  Read http://www.cnn.com/2011/TRAVEL/05/23/vacation.in.america/index.html?hpt=P1&iref=NS1

CLASS 5 5/17/2011:

1. Listen to (and read) Obama's speech at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNYmK19-d0U

   Also watch http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwQMQXrpmJc for background on Osama bin Ladin

2. Quiz about Obama's speech on the execution of Osama Bin Ladin

 a. Do you remember when you first saw 9/11?
 b. Do you think Osama bin Laden's death will help future world peace?
 c. How old did you think Osama bin Laden was?
 d. Do you think it was right for the US to kill Osama?  What else could they have done?
 e. Do you think terrorism could happen in Japan?
 f. What did you think of today's quiz?  What questions were difficult and why?

For 5/24

  Read Student times article http://www.japantimes.co.jp/shukan-st/english_news/news/current/nm20110513/nm20110513main.htm?print=noframe

CLASS 4 5/10/2011:

1. Listen to newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Quiz about the royal wedding article at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13181999

 a. What did you think of the Royal Wedding?
 b. Do you think the Prince of Bahrain should have attended? Why or why not?
 c. Who is Prince William's mother?  What happened to her?
 d. When do you want to get married? Do you want a Western or Japanese style wedding?

For 5/17:

  Read http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20058783-503544.html and 

CLASS 3 4/26/2011:

1. Listen to news story from 2/22 at http://edition.englishclub.com/listening-news/20110222/

2. Quiz about the cultural side of the revolution in Libya

3. Chat questions

 a. If you were in Libya now, what would you do?
 b. Do you think Japan can or should do anything for Libya?
 c. Do you think governments should be able to control internet?
 d. Why do people in Libya want the ability to change their government?
 e. Did you vote last weekend? Why is voting important?

For 5/10:

  Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/
  Read about the royal wedding at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13181999

CLASS 2 4/19/2011:

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Quiz about differences in Japan Crisis news in the World

3. Chat questions

 a. How did you get your information about the Tohoku earthquake? What about the nuclear situation?
 b. Did you get information in Japanese only, or in another language?
 c. Commercials are also information. Why are there so many AC commercials nowadays?
 d. Did you hear a rumor about an earthquake in Kumamoto? Do you believe it? Why or why not?
 e. How can we best get correct information?

For next week:

  Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/
  Read about the cultural side of the revolution in Libya

CLASS 1 4/12/2011 Introduction to current events CURRENT EVENTS DESCRIPTION

Welcome to the class！

1. First we will listen to http://edition.englishclub.com/listening-news/2011-03-15/

2. Then let's take a quiz.

3. Now, we will chat about these questions:

 a. How often do you read news in Japanese? in English?
 b. How do you read news? (newspaper, magazine, net, cell phone, etc.)
 c. How did you get news about the earthquake and tsunami?
 d. What do you think will be on the top ten news this year in Japan? in the world?

  Read about the Japanese political situation at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20110531a4.html

CLASS 7 5/31/2011:

2. Quiz on http://www.cnn.com/2011/TRAVEL/05/23/vacation.in.america/index.html?hpt=P1&iref=NS1

For 6/7/2011

  Read 

CLASS 6 5/17/2011:

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Quiz and listen to Student times article about yakiniku

 a. What did you think of this news?
 b. Have you ever eaten yukke?
 c. Have you ever experienced food poisoning?
 d. How do you think the restaurant should treat their customers who got sick? 

For 5/31

  Read http://www.cnn.com/2011/TRAVEL/05/23/vacation.in.america/index.html?hpt=P1&iref=NS1

CLASS 5 5/17/2011:

1. Listen to (and read) Obama's speech at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNYmK19-d0U

   Also watch http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwQMQXrpmJc for background on Osama bin Ladin

2. Quiz about Obama's speech on the execution of Osama Bin Ladin

 a. Do you remember when you first saw 9/11?
 b. Do you think Osama bin Laden's death will help future world peace?
 c. How old did you think Osama bin Laden was?
 d. Do you think it was right for the US to kill Osama?  What else could they have done?
 e. Do you think terrorism could happen in Japan?
 f. What did you think of today's quiz?  What questions were difficult and why?

For 5/24

  Read Student times article http://www.japantimes.co.jp/shukan-st/english_news/news/current/nm20110513/nm20110513main.htm?print=noframe

CLASS 4 5/10/2011:

1. Listen to newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Quiz about the royal wedding article at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13181999

 a. What did you think of the Royal Wedding?
 b. Do you think the Prince of Bahrain should have attended? Why or why not?
 c. Who is Prince William's mother?  What happened to her?
 d. When do you want to get married? Do you want a Western or Japanese style wedding?

For 5/17:

  Read http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20058783-503544.html and 

CLASS 3 4/26/2011:

1. Listen to news story from 2/22 at http://edition.englishclub.com/listening-news/20110222/

2. Quiz about the cultural side of the revolution in Libya

 a. If you were in Libya now, what would you do?
 b. Do you think Japan can or should do anything for Libya?
 c. Do you think governments should be able to control internet?
 d. Why do people in Libya want the ability to change their government?
 e. Did you vote last weekend? Why is voting important?

For 5/10:

  Read about the royal wedding at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13181999

CLASS 2 4/19/2011:

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Quiz about differences in Japan Crisis news in the World

3. Chat questions

 a. How did you get your information about the Tohoku earthquake? What about the nuclear situation?
 b. Did you get information in Japanese only, or in another language?
 c. Commercials are also information. Why are there so many AC commercials nowadays?
 d. Did you hear a rumor about an earthquake in Kumamoto? Do you believe it? Why or why not?
 e. How can we best get correct information?

For next week:

  Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/
  Read about the cultural side of the revolution in Libya

 a. What did you think of this news?
 b. Have you ever eaten yukke?
 c. Have you ever experienced food poisoning?
 d. How do you think the restaurant should treat their customers who got sick? 

  Read http://www.cnn.com/2011/TRAVEL/05/23/vacation.in.america/index.html?hpt=P1&iref=NS1

2. Quiz and listen to Student times article about yakiniku

CLASS 6 5/17/2011:

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Read and listen to Student times article about yakiniku

 a. 
 b. 
 c. 
 d.
 e. 
 f. 

For 5/31

  Read and listen to Student times article about yakiniku

CLASS 5 5/17/2011:

1. Listen to (and read) Obama's speech at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNYmK19-d0U

   Also watch http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwQMQXrpmJc for background on Osama bin Ladin

2. Quiz about Obama's speech on the execution of Osama Bin Ladin

 a. Do you remember when you first saw 9/11?
 b. Do you think Osama bin Laden's death will help future world peace?
 c. How old did you think Osama bin Laden was?
 d. Do you think it was right for the US to kill Osama?  What else could they have done?
 e. Do you think terrorism could happen in Japan?
 f. What did you think of today's quiz?  What questions were difficult and why?

For 5/24

  Read Student times article http://www.japantimes.co.jp/shukan-st/english_news/news/current/nm20110513/nm20110513main.htm?print=noframe

CLASS 4 5/10/2011:

1. Listen to newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Quiz about the royal wedding article at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13181999

 a. What did you think of the Royal Wedding?
 b. Do you think the Prince of Bahrain should have attended? Why or why not?
 c. Who is Prince William's mother?  What happened to her?
 d. When do you want to get married? Do you want a Western or Japanese style wedding?

For 5/17:

  Read http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20058783-503544.html and 

CLASS 3 4/26/2011:

1. Listen to news story from 2/22 at http://edition.englishclub.com/listening-news/20110222/

2. Quiz about the cultural side of the revolution in Libya

 a. If you were in Libya now, what would you do?
 b. Do you think Japan can or should do anything for Libya?
 c. Do you think governments should be able to control internet?
 d. Why do people in Libya want the ability to change their government?
 e. Did you vote last weekend? Why is voting important?

For 5/10:

  Read about the royal wedding at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13181999

CLASS 2 4/19/2011:

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Quiz about differences in Japan Crisis news in the World

3. Chat questions

 a. How did you get your information about the Tohoku earthquake? What about the nuclear situation?
 b. Did you get information in Japanese only, or in another language?
 c. Commercials are also information. Why are there so many AC commercials nowadays?
 d. Did you hear a rumor about an earthquake in Kumamoto? Do you believe it? Why or why not?
 e. How can we best get correct information?

For next week:

  Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/
  Read about the cultural side of the revolution in Libya

 c. How old did you think Osama bin Laden was?
 d. Do you think it was right for the US to kill Osama?  What else could they have done?
 e. Do you think terrorism could happen in Japan?
 f. What did you think of today's quiz?  What questions were difficult and why?

   Also watch http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwQMQXrpmJc for background on Osama bin Ladin

1. Listen to (and read) Obama's speech at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNYmK19-d0U

2. Quiz about Obama's speech on the execution of Osama Bin Ladin

 a. Do you remember when you first saw 9/11?
 b. Do you think Osama bin Laden's death will help future world peace?

  Read Student times article http://www.japantimes.co.jp/shukan-st/english_news/news/current/nm20110513/nm20110513main.htm?print=noframe

CLASS 5 5/17/2011:

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Quiz about Obama's speech on the execution of Osama Bin Ladin

 a. 

For 5/24

  Read 

CLASS 4 5/10/2011:

1. Listen to newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Quiz about the royal wedding article at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13181999

 a. What did you think of the Royal Wedding?
 b. Do you think the Prince of Bahrain should have attended? Why or why not?
 c. Who is Prince William's mother?  What happened to her?
 d. When do you want to get married? Do you want a Western or Japanese style wedding?

For 5/17:

  Read http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20058783-503544.html and 

CLASS 3 4/26/2011:

1. Listen to news story from 2/22 at http://edition.englishclub.com/listening-news/20110222/

2. Quiz about the cultural side of the revolution in Libya

 a. If you were in Libya now, what would you do?
 b. Do you think Japan can or should do anything for Libya?
 c. Do you think governments should be able to control internet?
 d. Why do people in Libya want the ability to change their government?
 e. Did you vote last weekend? Why is voting important?

For 5/10:

  Read about the royal wedding at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13181999

CLASS 2 4/19/2011:

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Quiz about differences in Japan Crisis news in the World

3. Chat questions

 a. How did you get your information about the Tohoku earthquake? What about the nuclear situation?
 b. Did you get information in Japanese only, or in another language?
 c. Commercials are also information. Why are there so many AC commercials nowadays?
 d. Did you hear a rumor about an earthquake in Kumamoto? Do you believe it? Why or why not?
 e. How can we best get correct information?

For next week:

  Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/
  Read about the cultural side of the revolution in Libya

 a. What did you think of the Royal Wedding?
 b. Do you think the Prince of Bahrain should have attended? Why or why not?
 c. Who is Prince William's mother?  What happened to her?
 d. When do you want to get married? Do you want a Western or Japanese style wedding?

  Read http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20058783-503544.html and 

2. Quiz about the royal wedding article at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13181999

CLASS 4 5/10/2011:

1. Listen to newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Quiz about the royal wedding at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13181999

 a. 

For 5/17:

  Read 

CLASS 3 4/26/2011:

1. Listen to news story from 2/22 at http://edition.englishclub.com/listening-news/20110222/

2. Quiz about the cultural side of the revolution in Libya

 a. If you were in Libya now, what would you do?
 b. Do you think Japan can or should do anything for Libya?
 c. Do you think governments should be able to control internet?
 d. Why do people in Libya want the ability to change their government?
 e. Did you vote last weekend? Why is voting important?

For 5/10:

  Read about the royal wedding at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13181999

CLASS 2 4/19/2011:

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Quiz about differences in Japan Crisis news in the World

3. Chat questions

 a. How did you get your information about the Tohoku earthquake? What about the nuclear situation?
 b. Did you get information in Japanese only, or in another language?
 c. Commercials are also information. Why are there so many AC commercials nowadays?
 d. Did you hear a rumor about an earthquake in Kumamoto? Do you believe it? Why or why not?
 e. How can we best get correct information?

For next week:

  Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/
  Read about the cultural side of the revolution in Libya

2. Quiz about the cultural side of the revolution in Libya

2. Quiz about differences in Japan Crisis news in the World

 a. If you were in Libya now, what would you do?
 b. Do you think Japan can or should do anything for Libya?
 c. Do you think governments should be able to control internet?
 d. Why do people in Libya want the ability to change their government?
 e. Did you vote last weekend? Why is voting important?

  Read about the royal wedding at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13181999

1. Listen to news story from 2/22 at http://edition.englishclub.com/listening-news/20110222/

1. Listen to news story from 2/22 at http://edition.englishclub.com/listening-news/20110222/

WELCOME TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH I and II 2011!

Instructor: Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

CLASS 3 4/26/2011:

2. Quiz about the cultural side of the revolution in Libya

 a.

For 5/10:

  Read about 

CLASS 2 4/19/2011:

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/

2. Quiz about differences in Japan Crisis news in the World

3. Chat questions

 a. How did you get your information about the Tohoku earthquake? What about the nuclear situation?
 b. Did you get information in Japanese only, or in another language?
 c. Commercials are also information. Why are there so many AC commercials nowadays?
 d. Did you hear a rumor about an earthquake in Kumamoto? Do you believe it? Why or why not?
 e. How can we best get correct information?

For next week:

  Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/
  Read about the cultural side of the revolution in Libya

 a. How did you get your information about the Tohoku earthquake? What about the nuclear situation?

 c. Commercials are also information. Why are there so many AC commercials nowadays?

 e. How can we best get correct information?

 a. How did you get your information about the Tohoku earthquake?
 b. Did you get information in Japanese only, or in another language?
 c. How can we best get correct information?
 d. Did you hear a rumor about an earthquake in Kumamoto? Do you believe it? Why or why not?

CLASS 2 4/19/2011:

1. Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/ 2. Quiz about differences in Japan Crisis news in the World

3. Chat questions

 a. 
 b.
 c.

For next week:

  Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/
  Read about the cultural side of the revolution in Libya

 Read about differences in Japan Crisis news in the World  

Welcome to the class！ 1. First we will listen to http://edition.englishclub.com/listening-news/2011-03-15/ 2. Then let's take a quiz. 3. Now, we will chat about these questions:

 c. How did you get news about the earthquake and tsunami?

 Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/
 Read Japan Crisis News in the World  

CURRENT EVENTS I

CLASS 1 4/12/2011 Introduction to current events CURRENT EVENTS DESCRIPTION

For next week 4/19/2011: Listen to the newest news story at http://edition.englishclub.com/category/listening-news/ Read Japan Crisis News in the World

Japan Crisis News in the World

For next week 4/12: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703512404576209043550725356.html?mod=fox_australian? in the World

[[http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703512404576209043550725356.html?mod=fox_australian |Japan Crisis News]] in the World

CURRENT EVENTS Io

• CLASS 1 4/12/2011 Introduction to current events CURRENT EVENTS DESCRIPTION

1. Let's chat about these questions:

 a. How often do you read news in Japanese? in English?
 b. How do you read news? (newspaper, magazine, net, cell phone, etc.)
 c. What do you think were the top ten news event for last year in Japan? in the world?
 d. What do you think will be on the top ten news this year in Japan? in the world?

For next week:

2010 topics

WELCOME TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH I and II 2011!

CURRENT EVENTS I

2010 archives

1/18 This was a make-up day. If you were absent and want to make up former chats to make sure you get a grade, PLEASE CHECK OVER THE LIST BELOW AND FINISH ANY QUIZZES and CHATS you have not done! The passwords for the make-up chats are late1 (for 1 kumi) and late2 (for 2kumi).

FINAL DEADLINE IS 1/25!!!

1/17 Happy New Year!

CURRENT EVENTS II FINAL CLASS

1/12 This was a make-up day. If you were absent and want to make up former chats to make sure you get a grade, PLEASE CHECK OVER THIS LIST AND FINISH ANY QUIZZES you have not done! The passwords for the make-up chats are late1 (for 1 kumi) and late2 (for 2kumi).

1/11 Happy New Year!

Today we will CHECK YOUR ANSWERS IN CLASS. Until 9:30, check the new news for English Club!

 If you are absent, please READ the answers here and check your own work. THERE WILL BE NO QUIZ OR CHAT--it is a speaking ONLY DAY.  

1/11 Happy New Year!

Today we will CHECK YOUR ANSWERS IN CLASS. If you are absent, please READ the answers here and check your own work. THERE WILL BE NO QUIZ OR CHAT--it is a speaking ONLY DAY.

FOR 1/12 This will be a make-up day. If you have been absent and want to make up former chats to make sure you get a grade, then please come. If you already have an A, great! You don't need to come to class.

Dec. 24 (IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ) We will make a list of the top 10 news for 2010 in class! No homework, but try to think of your picks. If you must be absent, make sure you do the quiz. THERE will be no chat rooms for Dec. 24.

Dec. 24 (IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ) We will make a list of the top 10 news for 2010 in class! No homework, but try to think of your picks. If you must be absent, make sure you do the quiz. THERE will be no chat rooms for Dec. 24.

Happy New Year! See you on 1/11!!

Dec. 21 Swedish security police: Violence was 'an act of terrorism'

FOR Dec. 24 (IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ) We will make a list of the top 10 news for 2010 in class! No homework, but try to think of your picks. If you must be absent, make sure you do the quiz. THERE will be no chat rooms for Dec. 24.

FOR NEXT WEEK Dec. 21 Swedish security police: Violence was 'an act of terrorism'

Dec. 13 Tokyo-Aomori bullet train debuts A preview for Kumamoto next year?

FOR NEXT WEEK Dec. 21

US China should urge North Korea to refrain from further provocative acts.

Japan The U.S. and South Korea are beginning joint naval exercises, and Japan is reinforcing SDF warnings.

South Korea The national defense white paper may be changed with harsher language towards North Korea.

China China proposed emergency six-way talks after considering carefully what to do.

North Korea (click on PAST NEWS-->November 26. 2010) CPRK Warns S. Korean Puppet Group Not to Do Rash Act South Korea's military provocation prompted North Korea's punishment.

Russia The United Nations Security Council should express its opinion as soon as possible.

FOR NEXT WEEK Dec. 13 Tokyo-Aomori bullet train debuts A preview for Kumamoto next year?

11/29 Another royal wedding

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=juLFcqps2Bg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=juLFcqps2Bg

CURRENT EVENTS II

11/29 Another royal wedding

For 12/6 Six takes on North Korea and six-party talks

US

Japan

South Korea

China

North Korea CPRK Warns S. Korean Puppet Group Not to Do Rash Act

Russia

11/22 Interesting developments in Myanmar--a step closer to democracy?

For more information: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=841B0X8aRdQ&feature=related,　http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uL_NVjPyER8&NR=1

For

11/15 Two historical? elections--one in the US and one in Kumamoto! http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-11-07/obama-says-u-s-congress-elections-may-spur-some-midcourse-corrections-.html

ALSO, watch news about Obama at APEC!

For more information: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=841B0X8aRdQ&feature=related,　http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uL_NVjPyER8&NR=1

11/22 Interesting developments in Myanmar--a step closer to democracy?

For 11/29 Another royal wedding

For 11/22 Interesting developments in Myanmar--a step closer to democracy?

11/15 Two historical? elections--one in the US and one in Kumamoto! http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-11-07/obama-says-u-s-congress-elections-may-spur-some-midcourse-corrections-.html

ALSO, watch news about Obama at APEC!

11/1 NO CLASS--HAVE A GOOD FESTIVAL!

ALSO, watch news about Obama at APEC!

You can watch the video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqwYpD58_iA

FOR NEXT WEEK 11/15 Two historical? elections--one in the US and one in Kumamoto! http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-11-07/obama-says-u-s-congress-elections-may-spur-some-midcourse-corrections-.html

11/8 You know about the demonstrations against Japan in China. Did you know about the demonstrations against China in Japan?

11/1 NO CLASS--HAVE A GOOD FESTIVAL!

10/25 It's the end of October already!! Let's look at the October English Club news articles for next week.

10/18

FOR NEXT WEEK 10/25 The end of October already!! Let's look at the October English Club news articles for next week.

10/4 !!ATTENTION!! IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR 10/4

CLASS FOR 10/4 WILL NOT HAVE A WRITTEN QUIZ DUE TO TECHNICAL PROBLEMS. I WILL GIVE YOU THE PASSWORDS IN CLASS. IF YOU ARE WORKING FROM HOME, PLEASE GO DIRECTLY TO THE PASSWORD PAGE http://www2.kumagaku.ac.jp/teacher/~judy/cgi/pmwiki/pmwiki.php?n=Main.passwd

  Whose islands are they? we will look at the issues behind the current troubles between China and Japan.

9/27 Today, let's review some of the summer news using the English Club listening articles for August and September.

The second semester we will be continuing with English Club listening articles once a month, and special articles for the rest of the classes. Also, we will have a special review of 2010 news at the end of the year!

10/11 Is Europe going to experience terrorism? Travel alert issued for U.S. citizens in Europe

ATTENTION!! IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR 10/4

CLASS FOR 10/4 WILL NOT HAVE A WRITTEN QUIZ DUE TO TECHNICAL PROBLEMS. I WILL GIVE YOU THE PASSWORDS IN CLASS. IF YOU ARE WORKING FROM HOME, PLEASE GO DIRECTLY TO THE PASSWORD PAGE http://www2.kumagaku.ac.jp/teacher/~judy/cgi/pmwiki/pmwiki.php?n=Main.passwd

ATTENTION!! CLASS FOR 10/4 WILL NOT HAVE A WRITTEN QUIZ DUE TO TECHNICAL PROBLEMS. I WILL GIVE YOU THE PASSWORDS IN CLASS. IF YOU ARE WORKING FROM HOME, PLEASE GO DIRECTLY TO THE PASSWORD PAGE http://www2.kumagaku.ac.jp/teacher/~judy/cgi/pmwiki/pmwiki.php?n=Main.passwd

ATTENTION!! CLASS FOR 10/4 WILL NOT HAVE A WRITTEN QUIZ DUE TO TECHNICAL PROBLEMS. I WILL GIVE YOU THE PASSWORDS IN CLASS. IF YOU ARE WORKING FROM HOME, PLEASE GO DIRECTLY TO THE PASSWORD PAGE http://www2.kumagaku.ac.jp/teacher/~judy/cgi/pmwiki/pmwiki.php?n=Main.passwd

10/4

  Whose islands are they? we will look at the issues behind the current troubles between China and Japan.

CURRENT EVENTS II

4/12 WELCOME TO THIS CLASS! Today we will learn what current events are, and how to use the internet to study current events. We will also practice taking quizzes and chat.

4/19 Today we will introduce Listening to news at English Club. We will try to visit this site every month.

4/26 Hey! According to Tachiagare Nippon!, I don't have to pay taxes!

Wish I could convince the 税務署...

5/10 Airlines in Trouble!!

Iceland closes airports for first time due to volcanic ash cloud

Understanding the situation in Thailand

5/17 Mother's Day special...do you want to be a mother in Japan?

_____

4/12 WELCOME TO THIS CLASS! Today we will learn what current events are, and how to use the internet to study current events. We will also practice taking quizzes and chat.

4/19 Today we will introduce Listening to news at English Club. We will try to visit this site every month.

4/26 Hey! According to Tachiagare Nippon!, I don't have to pay taxes!

Wish I could convince the 税務署...

5/10 Airlines in Trouble!!

Iceland closes airports for first time due to volcanic ash cloud

Understanding the situation in Thailand

5/17 Mother's Day special...do you want to be a mother in Japan?

5/24 North vs. South Korean ships in the West Sea

And flash news about the U.N. and the South Korean investigations!

See also http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/world/asia_pacific/10144059.stm

5/31 Do you know foot-and-mouth disease? What a problem in Miyazaki!

Also let's take a quick look at the May news for English Club! Which ones did we discuss in Class?

6/7 Do you want an ipad?

6/14 Japan has a new prime minister AGAIN!

6/21 Are you watching the World Cup games?

6/28 Do you know the situation in Central Asia?

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/world/asia_pacific/10356432.stm

EVERYONE---Thank you for your donations! They totaled 3,014 yen! So I sent 6,000 yen (1000円単位のみ）as a UNHCR donation.

7/5 The G8 Summit

7/12 Do you know about the new Chinese world news channel in English?

WELCOME BACK TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH I and II 2010!

CURRENT EVENTS II

The second semester we will be continuing with English Club listening articles once a month, and special articles for the rest of the classes. Also, we will have a special review of 2010 news at the end of the year!

9/27 Today, let's review some of the summer news using the English Club listening articles for August and September.

For next week: Whose islands are they? we will look at the issues behind the current troubles between China and Japan.

7/16 This FRIDAY will be our final MONDAY class! We will do a general review of all the lessons we have had in this class.

If you are absent, please do the final quiz and enter the chat rooms as usual!

PLEASE FILL OUT THIS QUESTIONNAIRE! Thank you...

7/16 This FRIDAY will be our final MONDAY class! We will do a general review of all the lessons we have had in this class. Please check out all the links above!

7/19 This FRIDAY will be our final MONDAY class! We will do a general review of all the lessons we have had in this class. Please check out all the links above!

7/12 Do you know about the new Chinese world news channel in English?

EVERYONE---Thank you for your donations! They totaled 3,014 yen! So I sent 6,000 yen (1000円単位のみ）as a UNHCR donation.

7/5 The G8 Summit

6/28 Do you know the situation in Central Asia?

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/world/asia_pacific/10356432.stm

6/21 Are you watching the World Cup games?

6/14 Japan has a new prime minister AGAIN!

6/7 Do you want an ipad?

See also http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/world/asia_pacific/10144059.stm

And flash news about the U.N. and the South Korean investigations!

5/31 Do you know foot-and-mouth disease? What a problem in Miyazaki!

Also let's take a quick look at the May news for English Club! Which ones did we discuss in Class?

PLEASE FILL OUT THIS QUESTIONNAIRE! Thank you...

5/24 North vs. South Korean ships in the West Sea

5/17 Mother's Day special...do you want to be a mother in Japan?

5/10 Airlines in Trouble!!

Iceland closes airports for first time due to volcanic ash cloud

Understanding the situation in Thailand

Is Thailand close to civil war?

Wish I could convince the 税務署...

4/26 Hey! According to Tachiagare Nippon!, I don't have to pay taxes!

5. We will spend 15 minutes at the end of class discussing the news events in small groups.

4/12 WELCOME TO THIS CLASS! Today we will learn what current events are, and how to use the internet to study current events. We will also practice taking quizzes and chat.

4/12 WELCOME TO THIS CLASS! Today we will learn what current events are, and how to use the internet to study current events. We will also practice chat.

4/19 Today we will introduce Listening to news at English Club. We will try to visit this site every month.

When you come into class, please do the following: 1. Turn on your computer and go to the English Club website. Do the quizzes for the each article. 2. Go to THIS WEEK’S QUIZ and do the quiz based on April English Club news. 3. When you complete the quiz successfully and get your password, go to OPINIONS CHAT . 4. Discuss with everyone about the news, especially the discussion questions! Try to write at least 10 times. 5. We will spend 15 minutes at the end of class discussing the news events in small groups.

4/12 WELCOME TO THIS CLASS! Today we will learn all about using the internet to research current events. We will also practice chat.

4/19 We will work on Listening

4/12 WELCOME TO THIS CLASS! Today we will learn all about using the internet to research current events.

WELCOME TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH I and II 2010!

CURRENT EVENTS 1

The first semester we will be concentrating on using the Student Times essays and English Club articles to help you get used to reading news in English.

CURRENT EVENTS 1 The first semester we will be concentrating on using the Student Times essays and English Club articles to help you get used to reading news in English.

WELCOME TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH I and II 2010!

Instructor: Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

4/ WELCOME TO THIS CLASS! Today we will learn all about using the internet to research current events.

We will also practice chat.

2008 new archives

1/18 OUR FINAL CLASS -- and help for those who need it.

Today we will review, and you will get another chance to finish any week that you haven't yet.

If you have 80 points already, you don't need to come to class!

We will discuss this article. Australian top cop says there is racism in Melbourne

1/17 Happy New Year!!

Today we will have a special guest from India.

We will discuss this article. http://www.itimes.com/public/people/dj.laila09/blog/Oz-racism-Enough-talk-Make-our-Govt-act&ref=toi_sg?

HERE ARE THE DAILY YOMIURI 2009 TOP 10 NEWS STORIES ANSWERS--HOW MANY DID YOU GUESS?

1/17 HERE ARE THE DAILY YOMIURI 2009 TOP 10 NEWS STORIES ANSWERS--HOW MANY DID YOU GUESS?

12/24 (Christmas eve!!!) we will NOT do chat, but instead make up a list of 10 top DOMESTIC and WORLD news stories for 2009! IF you MUST be absent (and I don't blame you...) please do the quiz at home BEFORE the end of this year.

12/21 Golfing blues -- Japanese phenom Ishikawa shocked by Tiger Woods scandals

For 12/24 (Christmas eve!!!) we will NOT do chat, but instead make up a list of 10 top DOMESTIC and WORLD news stories for 2009! IF you MUST be absent (and I don't blame you...) please do the quiz at home BEFORE the end of this year.

12/21 Golfing blues -- Japanese phenom Ishikawa shocked by Tiger Woods scandals http://home.kyodo.co.jp/modules/fstStory/index.php?storyid=475517

• Movement on The War in Afghanistan: more troops and an exit strategy. YES NUMBER 5 (world)
• Fire fire everywhere: First the shooting gallery in Korea, then the disco in Russia! YES NUMBER 9 WORLD
• Cop15: Agreement for global warming? YES NUMBER 2 WORLD
• Whither Futenma? YES NUMBER 7 JAPAN

For next week: Golfing blues -- Japanese phenom Ishikawa shocked by Tiger Woods scandals http://home.kyodo.co.jp/modules/fstStory/index.php?storyid=475517

12/14 This week, Lots of news! Take your pick.

For next week: Golfing blues -- Japanese phenom Ishikawa shocked by Tiger Woods scandals

12/7 It's December already! We will start reviewing this year for our 2009 Top Ten News Guessing Game (to be done on Dec. 24). Please check out the English club listening articles for November, and we will work backwards to October.

• Cop15: Agreement for global warming?

REQUEST!! Please answer the following questionnaires for your kohai!

REQUEST!! Please answer the following questionnaires for your kohai!

• Fire fire everywhere: First the shooting gallery in Korea, then the disco in Russia!

• Fire fire everywhere: First the shooting gallery in Korea, then the disco in Russia!

For next week: Lots of news! Take your pick.

• Movement on The War in Afghanistan: more troops and an exit strategy.
• Fire fire everywhere: First the shooting gallery in Korea, then the disco in Russia!?
• Cop15: Agreement for global warming?
• Whither Futenma?

12/7 It's December already! We will start reviewing this year for our 2009 Top Ten News Guessing Game (to be done on Dec. 24). Please check out the English club listening articles for November, and we will work backwards to October.

• For next week: The War in Afghanistan: more troops and an exit strategy.

Fire fire everywhere: First the shooting gallery in Korea, then the disco in Russia!

11/30 We will talk about the Ueki murder-suicide today You will also need to look at the comments on http://www.japantoday.com/category/crime/view/police-suspect-trainee-killed-couple-at-kumamoto-farmhouse to answer the quiz. Good luck!

• For next week: It's December already! If nothing else big occurs, we will start reviewing the year. Please check out the English club listening articles for November, and we will work backwards to October.

You will also need to look at the comments on http://www.japantoday.com/category/crime/view/police-suspect-trainee-killed-couple-at-kumamoto-farmhouse to answer the quiz.

Good luck!

11/30 We will talk about the Ueki murder-suicide today

• For next week:

 Transcript of Obama's speech

  Japan 'has no time' to meet US

 Japanese protest against US base

 There is no news on CNN about either of these issues.  What do you think about this?

• For next week: We will talk about the Ueki murder-suicide

11/16 Changing US-Japan relations?

Do you think President Obama's visit helped relations between US and Japan? In what ways?

• For next week: We will talk about

11/9 Today we will discuss this article about reading: Do you read a book a month? Why or why not?

 Will Japan's global ties change?  

We will also look at the following:

 Report: Obama may delay Japan arrival next week

 Japanese protest against US base

There is no news on CNN about either of these issues. What do you think about this?

Please read the following article:

 Will Japan's global ties change?
 Japan 'has no time' to meet US
 Japanese protest against US base 

11/9 Today we will discuss this article about reading: Do you read a book a month? Why or why not?

For next week: Changing US-Japan relations? Please read the following articles:

  Report: Obama may delay Japan arrival next week
 U.S. Senate cuts fund for marines' Guam move
 [[

Next week we will discuss this article about reading: Do you read a book a month? Why or why not?

10/26 Today we will talk about job hunting (very important for you soon!). Please read this article "Dress to Impress"

Next week

10/19 Today we will look at different reports of the death of ex-minister Nakagawa. Take a look at how Mainichi, Yomiuri, Japan Times and CNN report the news.

10/5 Today we will discuss what's happened in the Philippines. Do you know? Please read this article, and stay informed of the current situation for the quiz and discussion.

• Video: Photographer captures major flooding in Philippines

Do you know where else in the world had problems with too much water this week?

9/28 Welcome to the second semester, with a new teacher! I look forward to continuing this class with you. This week we will use the September news on English Club to practice listening, and discuss all four articles in class.

Next week 10/26 we will talk about job hunting (very important for you soon!). Please read this article "Dress to Impress"

Next week we will talk about job hunting (very important for you soon!). Please read this article "Dress to Impress"

Next week we will talk about job hunting (very important for you soon!). Please read this article "Dress to Impress": http://edition.cnn.com/2009/BUSINESS/10/14/image.interview/index.html

Next week we will talk about job hunting (very important for you soon!). Please read this article:

CURRENT EVENTS II

10/19 Today we will look at different reports of the death of ex-minister Nakagawa. Take a look at how Mainichi, Yomiuri, Japan Times and CNN report the news.

For next week read this articls:

9/28 Welcome to the second semester, with a new teacher! I look forward to continuing this class with you. This week we will use the September news on English Club to practice listening, and discuss all four articles in class.

CURRENT EVENTS 1

Take a look at how Mainichi, Yomiuri, Japan Times and CNN report the news.

Do you know where else in the world had problems with too much water this week?

10/12 Today we will look at different reports of the death of ex-minister Nakagawa. Take a look at how Mainichi, Yomiuri, and CNN report the news.

• Video: Photographer captures major flooding in Philippines

Video: http://edition.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/asiapcf/09/28/philippines.flood.irpt/index.html?

10/5 Today we will discuss what's happened in the Philippines. Do you know? Please read this article, and stay informed of the current situation for the quiz and discussion.

9/28 Welcome to the second semester, with a new teacher! I look forward to continuing this class with you. This week we will use the September news on English Club to practice listening, and discuss all four articles in class.

• FROM FIRST SEMESTER

It seems there is constantly warfare and terrorism in the Middle East. Amnesty International recently published a report on the bloody conflict in the Gaza area at the end of 2008. Please read Israel and Hammas Reject Amnesty Report to get ready for next week's quiz and chat.

Please ALSO read the DISCUSSION - STUDENT A'S QUESTIONS and STUDENT B'S QUESTIONS so we can talk about them in class.

Please read Israel and Hammas Reject Amnesty Report to get ready for next week's quiz and chat.

7/13 LAST CLASS BEFORE SUMMER VACATION! Please read New Warnings for Video Games to get ready for next week's quiz and chat.

7/6 OK, I'm a geek and I'm interested in geeky news! Please read New Warnings for Video Games to get ready for next week's quiz and chat.

7/6 OK, I'm a geek and I'm interested in geeky news! Please read Video Game Ratings to get ready for next week's quiz and chat.

7/6 OK, I'm a geek and I'm interested in geeky news! Please read Video Game Ratings to get ready for next week's quiz.

Please ALSO read the DISCUSSION - STUDENT A'S QUESTIONS and STUDENT B'S QUESTIONS so we can talk about them in class.

Also, I decided to NOT have you read an article about Michael Jackson's death. Do you think I should have? If you think so, please tell me why in the chat rooms next week.

6/29 Lots of serious news recently, but let's lighten up a little. This week we'll look at three recent trends in Japan as reported by Mainichi Shinbun. Please browse (read quickly for main ideas) these three articles: Free Climbing Gyms , "History Girls" , and Bathhouse Concerts to get ready for next week's chat and quiz.

6/29 Let's lighten up a little. Lots of serious news recently, but lets look at some recent trends in Japan, and talk about them. Please browse (read quickly for main ideas) these three articles: Free Climbing Gyms , "History Girls" , and Bathhouse Concerts to get ready for next week's chat and quiz.

6/22 What do you think about organ transplants? Please read Personality Transplants?? to get ready for next week's quiz.

6/15 North Korea is keeping the world awake at night! Let's talk about the latest developments there. Please read the article at the top of this site: North Korea to Test Long-Range Missile to get ready for next week's quiz.

Please ALSO read the DISCUSSION - STUDENT A'S QUESTIONS and STUDENT B'S QUESTIONS so we can talk about them in class.

6/15 North Korea is keeping the world awake at night! Let's talk about the latest developments there. Please read the article at the top of this site: North Korea to Test Long-Range Missileto get ready for next week's quiz. Please ALSO read the DISCUSSION - STUDENT A'S QUESTIONS and STUDENT B'S QUESTIONS so we can talk about them in class.

6/8 Well, Japan's citizen judge system has begun! Let's read and chat about this change in Japan's legal system. Please read Lay judge system posing problems to be get ready for next week's quiz and discussion.

6/15 North Korea is keeping the world awake at night! Let's talk about the latest developments there. Please read the article at the top of this site: North Korea to Test Long-Range Missile

 to be get ready for next week's quiz. Please ALSO read the DISCUSSION - STUDENT A'S QUESTIONS and STUDENT B'S QUESTIONS so we can talk about them in class.

North Korea to Test Long Range Missile

6/8 Well, Japan's citizen judge system has begun! Let's read and chat about this change in Japan's legal system. Please read Lay judge system posing problems to be get ready for next week's quiz.

6/8 Well, Japan's citizen judge system has begun! Let's read and chat about this change in Japan's legal system. Pleasde read blablabla to be get ready for next week's quiz.

6/1 This week we'll read and talk about the aging population of Japan. Please read Longevity of life a mixed blessing for Japanese to prepare for May 25th's quiz and discussion.

6/8 Well, Japan's citizen judge system has begun! Let's read and chat about this change in Japan's legal system. Pleasde read Longevity of life a mixed blessing for Japanese to be get ready for next week's quiz.

For more information, you might want to look at these articles:Lay judge system forcing change and Candidates anxious over dispensing justice.

6/8 Well, Japan's citizen judge system has begun! Let's read and chat about this change in Japan's legal system. Pleasde read Longevity of life a mixed blessing for Japanese to be get ready for next week's quiz. For more information, you might want to look at these articles:Lay judge system forcing change and Candidates anxious over dispensing justice.

6/1 This week we'll read and talk about the aging population of Japan. Please read Lay judge system posing problems to prepare for May 25th's quiz and discussion.

6/8 Well, the citizen judge system is well underway in Japan! Let's read and chat about this change in Japan's legal system. Pleasde read Longevity of life a mixed blessing for Japanese to be get some more ideas for next week's quiz and discussion. Also, you might want to loomk at these articles from the same newspaper's series of articles on this topic:

6/1 This week we'll read and talk about the aging population of Japan. Please read Longevity of life a mixed blessing for Japanese to prepare for May 25th's quiz and discussion.

5/18 This week we'll read and talk about Swine Flu. Please read Swine Flu Reaches Japan and Swine Flu Deaths Expected to Rise to prepare for May 18th's quiz and discussion.

5/25 This week we'll read and talk about the growing popularity of men's cooking classes in Japan. Please read Men bid to cook up love to prepare for May 25th's quiz and discussion.

5/25 This week we'll read and talk about the growing popularity of men's cooking classes in Japan. Please read Men bid to cook up love to prepare for May 11th's quiz and discussion. in/fl20090510x2.html|Blurring the boundaries]], and see if you think its related to the article about cooking.)

5/18 This week we'll read and talk about Swine Flu. Please read Swine Flu Reaches Japan and Swine Flu Deaths Expected to Rise to prepare for May 11th's quiz and discussion.

5/18 This week we'll read and discuss Swine Flu entering Japan Please read Swine Flu Reaches Japan and Swine Flu Deaths Increase to prepare for May 11th's quiz and discussion.

5/11 This week we'll talk about.....the "Octomom"! Please read Last of octuplets go home to prepare for May 11th's quiz and discussion. Be ready to tell me what these words or phrases mean in Japanese: “octuplets” “medical miracle” “in vitro fertilization” “unemployed” “team of nannies”

5/11 This week we'll talk about.....the "Octomom"! Please read Last of octuplets go home to prepare for May 11th's quiz and discussion. Be ready to tell me what these words or phrases mean in Japanese: “octuplets” “medical miracle” “in vitro fertilization” “unemployed” “team of nannies”

5/11 This week we'll talk about.....the "Octomom"! Please read Last of octuplets go home to prepare for May 11th's quiz and discussion. Be ready to tell me what these words or phrases mean in Japanese: “octuplets” “medical miracle” “in vitro fertilization” “unemployed” “team of nannies”

ENJOY GOLDEN WEEK!!!!

5/11 This week we'll talk about.....the "Octomom"! Please read Octomom to prepare for May 11th's quiz and discussion.

4/27 This week we'll talk about interrogating terrorists and prisoner's rights. Please read Obama risks national security to prepare for next week's quiz and discussion.

4/27 Obama risks national security

4/20 This week we'll discuss different aspects of using the Internet. Please read Middle school students using mobile phone Internet filters. Also, please look at Twitter helps stop suicide.

4/20 This week we'll discuss different aspects of using the Internet. Middle school students using mobile phone Internet filters. Also, please look at Twitter helps stop suicide. Please read So many people use the Internet on their cell phones these days, and many use "filters" to screen out pages they don't want to see. What do you think about Internet filters? Here's the address for the article we're going to talk about today.

Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com and Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com and Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

Instructors: Charles Waterman italicsagapeesl@gmail.com and Judy Yoneoka italicsjudy@kumagaku.ac.jp

Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com and Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com

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Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com -> and Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com

Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com and Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com and Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com and Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

'Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com' ' and Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp'

     Instructors: Charles Waterman       agapeesl@gmail.com                                                     
              and Judy Yoneoka           judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com and Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com and Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com

and Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com

                 and Judy Yoneoka        judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com and Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

WELCOME TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH I and II 2009!

Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com

                 and Judy Yoneoka        judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

WELCOME TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH I and II 2008!

Instructor: Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

1/19 It's the last class of the year!

Today we will finish by doing another month of English Club. This site is great for self-study, so you can continue doing this each month even after the class has finished.

The quiz is Final quiz 2008/9 and it is near the top of the quiz page!

I would also like your general comments on the class to improve this class for next year.

FOR 12/22 (LAST DAY OF 2008) THIS WILL BE A SPECIAL CLASS!!

 BE PREPARED TO DISCUSS THE TOP TEN NEWS STORIES FOR JAPAN AND FOR THE WORLD!

If you are doing this class from home, please decide what you think are the top ten domestic (Japan) and international (world) news for 2008, and write them in the quiz for 12/22. You have until the end of this year to do so!

12/15 we will talk about the following article Graduates' security goes to pot

12/8 Today we will talk about the demonstrations in Thailand:

Blasts hit Bangkok as protests continue

12/1 Welcome back everyone!! Did you finish your assignment for November?

Recently there has been lots of world news going on. We will discuss the terrorism in Mumbai today. Here is your new reading: Westerners, Asians from all walks of life among Mumbai victims

FOR NEXT WEEK

11/10 Focus on the future

Wearable Technology

FOR THE NEXT TWO WEEKS:

NOTICE: I will not be able to come to class next week (11/17) and 11/24 is ANOTHER holiday. I do not want you to go "newsless" for three weeks, so here is your assignment (to finish by 11/30):

1. Read and listen to the four articles on the following website, and look at the quizzes and discussion questions:

http://www.englishclub.com/listening/news.htm

2. For each article join the following chat rooms and add your opinions to the discussion questions:

  Story #1: Jury Finds OJ Simpson Guilty of New Crimes     CHAT ROOM:  simpson
  Story #2: French President Wants Anthem Booing Banned    CHAT ROOM:  booing
  Story #3: Parents Support Young Man's Right to Die       CHAT ROOM:  parents
  Story #4: Japan's Economy Gets Government Help           CHAT ROOM:  govern

NOTE: For story #4, write your own opinions about Prime Minister Aso's plans for the economy!

You may do this in class on Nov. 17, or at home. BUT be sure to finish by 11/30 because the website will change on 12/1!

GO TO 2008 new archives for older assignments and to check your chats! Introduction to Yahoo Video: Interesting news about same-sex marriages

2008 archives

WELCOME TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH I and II 2009!

Instructors: Charles Waterman agapeesl@gmail.com AND Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

12/15 we will talk about the following article Graduates' security goes to pot

1/19 It's the last class of the year!

The quiz is Final quiz 2008/9 and it is near the top of the quiz page!

I would also like your general comments on the class to improve this class for next year.

1/19 It's the last class of the year!

Today we will finish by doing another month of English Club. This site is great for self-study, so you can continue doing this each month even after the class has finished.

AND we have one more class to go this year (1/19) so we will finish by doing another month of English Club. This site is great for self-study, so you can continue doing this each month even after the class has finished.

TODAY let's look at another year 2008 news review and quiz on English Club in the upper right hand corner. Listen to the reviews for each month and answer the quiz. The answers will be the same for our quiz!

AND we have one more class to go this year (1/23) so we will finish by doing another month of English Club. This site is great for self-study, so you can continue doing this each month even after the class has finished.

Here are the top ten stories for 2008. How did you do? Are YOU a prize winner?

AND we have one more class to go this year (1/23) so let's finish by doing another month of English Club. This site is great for self-study, so you can continue doing this each month even after the class has finished.

You can start today by doing the listening tests and answering the questions, and we will chat about these topics on 1/23.

1/5 Welcome back everyone！　It was a FAST vacation!

Here are the top ten stories for 2008. How did you do?

Are YOU a prize winner?

FOR 12/22 (LAST DAY OF 2008) THIS WILL BE A SPECIAL CLASS!!

 BE PREPARED TO DISCUSS THE TOP TEN NEWS STORIES FOR JAPAN AND FOR THE WORLD!

If you are doing this class from home, please decide what you think are the top ten domestic (Japan) and international (world) news for 2008, and write them in the quiz for 12/22. You have until the end of this year to do so!

12/15 we will talk about the following article Graduates' security goes to pot

12/8 Today we will talk about the demonstrations in Thailand:

Blasts hit Bangkok as protests continue

If you are doing this class from home, please decide what you think are the top ten domestic (Japan) and international (world) news for 2008, and write them in the quiz for 12/22. You have until the end of this year to do so!

FOR 12/22 (LAST DAY OF 2008) THIS WILL BE A SPECIAL CLASS!!

 BE PREPARED TO DISCUSS THE TOP TEN NEWS STORIES FOR JAPAN AND FOR THE WORLD!

12/15 we will talk about the following article Graduates' security goes to pot

12/8 Today we will talk about the demonstrations in Thailand:

Blasts hit Bangkok as protests continue

12/15 For next week we will talk about the following article Graduates' security goes to pot

FOR NEXT WEEK

12/8 For next week we will talk about the following article

2008 archives

archives

Recently there has been lots of world news going on. We will discuss the terrorism in Mumbai today. Here is your new reading: Westerners, Asians from all walks of life among Mumbai victims

FOR NEXT WEEK 12/8 You may choose to read either about the demonstrations in Thailand or the flooding in Brazil for next week.

CLICK HERE FOR CURRENT EVENTS DESCRIPTION

GO TO 2008 new archives for older assignments and to check your chats! Introduction to Yahoo Video: Interesting news about same-sex marriages

12/1 Welcome back everyone!! Did you finish your assignment for November?

Recently there has been lots of world news going on. We will discuss the terrorism in Mumbai today, and you may choose to read either about the demonstrations in Thailand or the flooding in Brazil for next week.

Blasts hit Bangkok as protests continue

More flood victims found in Brazil

For TODAY, here is your new reading: Westerners, Asians from all walks of life among Mumbai victims

NOTICE: I will not be able to come to class next week (11/17) and 11/24 is ANOTHER holiday. I do not want you to go "newsless" for three weeks, so here is your assignment (to finish by 11/30):

You may do this in class on Nov. 17, or at home. BUT be sure to finish by 11/30 because the website will change on 12/1!

FOR THE NEXT TWO WEEKS:

NOTICE: I will not be able to come to class next week (11/17) and 11/24 is ANOTHER holiday. I do not want you to go "newsless" for three weeks, so here is your assignment (to finish by 12/1):

1. Read and listen to the four articles on the following website, and look at the quizzes and discussion questions:

http://www.englishclub.com/listening/news.htm

2. For each article join the following chat rooms and add your opinions to the discussion questions:

  Story #1: Jury Finds OJ Simpson Guilty of New Crimes     CHAT ROOM:  simpson
  Story #2: French President Wants Anthem Booing Banned    CHAT ROOM:  booing
  Story #3: Parents Support Young Man's Right to Die       CHAT ROOM:  parents
  Story #4: Japan's Economy Gets Government Help           CHAT ROOM:  govern

NOTE: For story #4, write your own opinions about Prime Minister Aso's plans for the economy!

11/10 Focus on the future

Wearable Technology

11/10 Focus on technology (and, of course, election updates!)

FOR NEXT WEEK

Also take a look at The US electoral process

and try this for fun! Election matchup game

How to elect the president

10/27

FOR NEXT WEEK 11/10 Focus on technology (and, of course, election updates!)

http://edition.cnn.com/2008/TECH/science/10/24/future.fashion/index.html|Wearable Technology]]

Offline in China

Also take a look at The US electoral process

10/20 Japan recalls sweets in melamine scandal

Also look at these for more problems with Chinese made food products

Tainted Frozen Green Beans

Toxic chemicals found in Chinese-made bean jam

FOR NEXT WEEK 10/27

Survey finds many minors slandered on Internet, mobile phone messages]

Also take a look at Tainted Frozen Green Beans

   because we will talk about the US election process

Who would be a good prime minister? Koike? Higashikokubaru? OR...?

Free discussion

Who would be a good prime minister? Koike? Higashikokumaru? OR...?

Is Aso a good prime minister? Why or why not?

What is the Nikkyoso (JTU)? Have you heard anything about them?

What was the Oita teacher's scandal? Was the Nikkyoso involved?

Do you think Japanese people don't like foreigners? Why or why not?

Do you think Japan is racially homogenous? Why or why not?

Free discussion...

10/6 FOCUS on changes in Japanese politics Gaffe-prone Nakayama quits Cabinet

FOR NEXT WEEK 10/13 Japan recalls sweets in melamine scandal

FOR NEXT WEEK 10/6 FOCUS on changes in Japanese politics Gaffe-prone Nakayama quits Cabinet

9/29 Two TOPICS today: Take your choice or do both!

1. Disappearing Banana and Morning Banana Diet An article on sumoforum.net (of all places!!)

2. Nomura to buy Lehman Brothers' European and Middle East offices for 2 dollars

Gaps in academic ability highlighted in nationwide school tests

9/22 WELCOME BACK!!!

This semester we will start with a review of summer news: the Olympics, the US economy, and Japan food scandals.

We will also talk about this article about Japanese school system and testing, so please read it!

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20080830p2a00m0na002000c.html?

7/14 LAST DAY!

PICK a news story that we have already done and have a FOLLOW UP discussion on it.

Remember!

1. Discuss what has happened since we discussed it last. Don't say the same things as before.

2. Prove your information with references to websites you found and TV news or newspaper articles you may have seen.

3. Join as many sessions as you can.

Article 1. The Next Big Step Korea Herald

Article 2. N. Korea destroys nuclear reactor tower CNN

For today 7/7 NEWS FROM BOTH KOREAS Let's compare the US version and the Korean versions

North Korea implodes nuclear cooling tower

Article 1.

 The Next Big Step   Korea Herald       

Article 2. [http://edition.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/06/27/northkorea.explosion/index.html| N. Korea destroys nuclear reactor tower CNN]]

South Korea demonstrates about US beef importation

Article 3. CNN Scores hurt in S. Korea beef protests

Article 4. Seoul vows stern action against protests Korea Herald

For today 7/7 NEWS FROM BOTH KOREAS Let's compare the US version and the Korean version

Next week is our final week! We will do a follow-up chat so read up on some of the topics we have already discussed. Your final chat grades will be dependent on how much you can tell us in the discussions!

1. North Korea implodes nuclear cooling tower

 The Next Big Step   Korea Herald        N. Korea destroys nuclear reactor tower   CNN

1. North Korea implodes nuclear cooling tower The Next Big Step Korea Herald N. Korea destroys nuclear reactor tower CNN

1. North Korea implodes nuclear cooling tower The Next Big Step Korea Herald CNN N. Korea destroys nuclear reactor tower

For next week NEWS FROM BOTH KOREAS Let7s compare the US version and the Korean version

1. North Korea implodes nuclear cooling tower Korea Herald CNN

2. South Korea demonstrates about US beef importation

 Seoul vows stern action against protests  Korea Herald     CNN Scores hurt in S. Korea beef protests

For today 6/30 FLASH!!! Kumamoto Disaster NEWS Woman killed in landslide

For next week NEWS FROM BOTH KOREAS

GO TO 2008 archives for older assignments and to check your chats! Introduction to Yahoo Video: Interesting news about same-sex marriages

California Legalizes Gay Marriage this Week

For next week 6/30 FLASH!!! Kumamoto Disaster NEWS Woman killed in landslide

For today Introduction to Yahoo Video: Interesting news about same-sex marriages

California Legalizes Gay Marriage this Week

For next week 6/30

California Legalizes Gay Marriage this Week

For today 6/16 More madness in Japanese crime

7 killed, 10 injured in Akihabara stabbing spree

For next week 6/23 Introduction to Yahoo Video: Interesting news about same-sex marriages

[[http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=5130416&page=1|California Legalizes Gay Marriage this Week

 ]]

For today 6/9 Do you feel a rise in food prices recently?

Import-dependent Japan fears food crisis: report

For next week 6/16 More madness in Japanese crime

7 killed, 10 injured in Akihabara stabbing spree

6/2

Climate confab kicks off in Kobe

And another world conference in Yokohama http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20080531a1.html

For next week 6/9 Do you feel a rise in food prices recently?

Import-dependent Japan fears food crisis: report

And another world conference in Yokohama http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20080531a1.html

CLICK HERE FOR CURRENT EVENTS DESCRIPTION discussion questions

For today 6/2

For next week 6/9

Climate confab kicks off in Kobe

For next week 6/2

G8 meet sidesteps midterm gas cuts

5/26 Disasters in TWO Asian countries

For next week 6/

This week Do you Drive? Is gas too expensive? This is why!!

 5/19 Gas tax bill is rammed through Diet

discussion questions

discussion questions

For next time 5/26 Disasters in TWO Asian countries

CHINA http://edition.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/05/18/china.quake.school/index.html

MYANMAR http://edition.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/05/18/myanmar.ap/index.html

This week Do you Drive? Is gas too expensive? This is why!!

 5/19 Gas tax bill is rammed through Diet

For next time 5/26

For next time 5/19 Gas tax bill is rammed through Diet

Obama, Clinton tied in race for superdelegates

This week 5/12

On May 6, the race MAY finally be decided?? What race? You'll find out soon. For next time prepare Will the 2008 USA election be won on Facebook?

For next time 5/19

For next time 5/12

On May 6, the race MAY finally be decided?? What race? You'll find out soon. For next time prepare Will the 2008 USA election be won on Facebook?

On May 6, the race MAY finally be decided?? What race? You'll find out soon. For next week prepare Will the 2008 USA election be won on Facebook?

This week (4/28) we discuss the articles Olympic torch ceremony interrupted AND Japan temple rejects torch relay

On May 6, the race MAY finally be decided?? What race? You'll find out soon. For next week prepare http://edition.cnn.com/2007/TECH/05/01/election.facebook/index.html?

For next week (4/28) prepare the articles Olympic torch ceremony interrupted AND Japan temple rejects torch relay

GO TO 2008 archives for older assignments and to check your chats!

4/21 This week we will discuss the article "EU OKs mobile phones on planes" What do you think about using mobile phones on planes? or trains or buses or the streetcar?

For next week prepare the article Olympic torch ceremony interrupted

Our passwords for absentees: until 4/21 10:30 AM nova1 nova2 nova3 nova4 nova5 nova6 nova7 nova8 nova9 nova10 nova11 nova12

This class will be ALL ENGLISH (mostly!), and include all four skills: reading, writing (in the form of chat), speaking and listening. Each week we will read articles and discuss one or several current events occurring in Japan, the world, or Kumamoto.

4/14 IT'S FINALLY HERE!!! THE FIRST DAY OF CLASS FOR 2008

4/21

This year we will make major use of the site http://www.breakingnewsenglish.com/

This week let's listen to and discuss the article Japan's biggest English school in trouble.

For next week PREPARE THE ARTICLE "EU OKs mobile phones on planes"

For next week

WELCOME TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH I and II 2008!

This class will be ALL ENGLISH (mostly!), and include all four skills: reading, writing (in the form of chat), speaking and listening. Each week we will read articles and discuss one or several current events occurring in Japan, the world, or Kumamoto. In 2007, we covered topics such as remark on the Nagasaki atom bomb by Kyuma, the assassination of Benazir Bhutto in Pakistan, and the Baby Post in Kumamoto Jikei Hospital.

In addition to current events, there will be special activities planned for certain days. AND in the fall we will have a "guess the top ten news events for 2008" (domestic and international) contest, complete with prizes, so be thinking about what they could be!

Exchange students from any country are especially welcome! Please come and chat (both online and face to face) and exchange your opinions with our students.

WELCOME TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH I 2008!

Let's guess them! Think about what you think the top ten domestic and international news stories were in 2007! We will discuss them in class and make a list.

IT'S HERE!!! THE FIRST DAY OF CLASS FOR 2008

For Jan. 21 THIS WILL BE A MAKE-UP CLASS FOR STUDENTS WHO DO NOT HAVE ENOUGH SCORES TO GET a passing grade ONLY. If you are unsure, please come and check.

IT'S HERE!!! THE LAST DAY OF CLASS

Jan. 7 TOP TEN NEWS STORIES for 2007 (ANSWERS)

How did you do? Read through the following Yomiuri editorials to check your lists from the last class.

IT'S HERE!!! THE LAST DAY OF CLASS FOR 2007

Dec. 17 TOP TEN NEWS STORIES for 2007

Let's guess them! Think about what you think the top ten domestic and international news stories were in 2007! We will discuss them in class and make a list.

IF YOU ARE ABSENT, MAKE SURE YOU DO THE QUIZ AND WRITE IN YOUR OWN ANSWERS! There are no chat rooms today.

For next week .

Dec. 10 Pick your sport

For next week Dec. 17 TOP TEN NEWS STORIES for 2007

Let's guess them! Think about what you think the top ten domestic and international news stories were in 2007! We will discuss them in class.

SUMO Mongolian sumo star returns to Japan, apologizes for creating stir over skipped exhibition

For next week Dec. 10 Pick your sport

BASEBALL Baseball: Japan edges S. Korea to move closer to Olympic berth

SUMO http://www.signonsandiego.com/sports/20071130-0903-sumoremorse.html?

SOCCER

Dec. 3: How can Japanese universities become more globally competetive?

For next week

Rankings for 2007

Japan's schools flunking at global level: symposium

Nov. 26: Japanese whaling expedition: good or bad?

For next week Dec. 3: How can Japanese universities become more globally competetive?

[[http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20071123f1.html|Japan's schools flunking at global level: symposium

BBC humpback listening

For today Nov. 19: the advance of Uniqlo: Japan in the world!

---

For next week Nov. 26: Japanese whaling expedition: good or bad?

Japan prepares to hunt humpbacks for first time since '63

• For today Nov. 12 A bit of Kyushu culture - the connections with Korea

And for next week: the advance of Uniqlo: Japan in the world!

Uniqlo – the generic brand with mass appeal

On the Korea-Japan Cultural ExhibitExhibition shows ancient cultural exchange between Korea and Japan

See also the museumm home page at http://www.museum.go.kr/eng/display/sub_02_01.jsp

Korean mask missing for 400 years appears to be in Japan

• For next week Nov. 12 A bit of Kyushu culture - the connections with Korea

You can CHOOSE one of the following articles:

On the Korea-Japan Cultural ExhibitExhibition shows ancient cultural exchange between Korea and Japan

On the Yatsushiro Korean Mask Korean mask missing for 400 years appears to be in Japan

(see a picture of the mask here)

• For today Nov. 5 The Antiterrorism Bill: Should it be renewed or not?

 Lower House takes up new MSDF bill

 Japan: still a team player

• For today Oct 29: Attempted assassination in Pakistan
  Karachi eyewitnesses: From joy to horror
• For next week Nov. 5 The Antiterrorism Bill: Should it be renewed or not?

Lower House takes up new MSDF bill

Japan: still a team player

For today Oct 22: A Nobel Prize Winner

For next week Oct 29: Attempted assassination in Pakistan Karachi eyewitnesses: From joy to horror

Welcome back from yet another "Happy Monday" everyone!

For today Oct. 15: Bad News in Iran Japanese kidnapped by bandits in Iran

For next week Oct 23: A Nobel Prize Winner

• If you have a chance, watch "An Inconvenient Truth" on DVD!
• Gore Wins the Nobel. But Will He Run?

http://www.voanews.com/specialenglish/2007-09-28-voa1.cfm

FOR Oct. 1, 2007 Fukuda Takes Office in Tokyo, and First Issue Is the Crisis in Burma

Listen to the special english report and complete the quiz

http://www.voanews.com/mediaassets/specialenglish/2007_09/Audio/mp3/se-itn-japan-PM-28sep07.mp3

Test your listening with Special English!

WELCOME (BACK!) TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH II 2007!

In the fall we will continue our weekly chats. In addition to current events, there will be special activities planned for culture week and December holidays. AND we will guess the top ten news events for 2007 (domestic and international) so be thinking about what they could be!

FOR Oct. 1, 2007

WELCOME TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH II 2007!

Japan changes name of Iwo Jima

For 7/17 FLASH! FINAL HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT

7/9 More national scandals over history.

FLASH! FINAL HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT

Japan changes name of Iwo Jima

For 7/9 More national scandals over history.

Under LDP pressure, Kyuma retracts A-bomb comments

7/2 Please read this article for next week.

Let's listen to this report from the BBC

http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/womanshour/03/2007_13_wed.shtml

6/25 Social security numbers: a solution to the pension problem?

For 7/2 Please read this article for next week.

Japan regrets US move for sex slave apology

6/25 Please study hard! See you next week

Social security numbers: a solution to the pension problem?

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

6/25 Free class?? Or self-study?

Social security numbers: a solution to the pension problem?

Listen to the interview transcript with Mr. Mandil from the INTERNATIONAL ENERGY AGENCY (IEA)(first 5 minutes) for the answers to the following questions:

WELCOME TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH I 2007!

Listen to the interview with Mr. Mandil from the INTERNATIONAL ENERGY AGENCY (IEA)(first 5 minutes) for the answers to the following questions:

１． How involved is the IEA in the G8?

2. What small example did Mr. Mandil give of energy efficiency?

3. Is the IEA more focused on individuals or industry?

4. Why is the main difficulty in the transport sector?

5. What part of the transport sector has a solution?

6. What is the future of hybrid technology?

6/18 THE G8 and global warming (with audio!)

2007-06-08 The G8 Leaders Meet

6/11 NEWS FROM EAST ASIA

China: At least 3 killed, hundreds hurt as quake hits Chinese city

Koreas and Japan: 4 N. Koreans may be harbinger / But govt ill-prepared to cope with possible exodus of defectors

6/4 Cannes film festival !!

Quick guide: Cannes Film Festival

Romanian drama wins Cannes gold

Press views: Michael Moore's Sicko

6/11

Quick guide: Cannes Film Festival

Press views: Michael Moore's Sicko

6/4 Cannes film festival !!

Romanian drama wins Cannes gold

Cannes film festival

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/6692481.stm

5/28 Kumamoto Makes National News

Father leaves preschooler in baby hatch

5/28 Kumamoto Makes National News

Father leaves preschooler in baby hatch

5/21 Recent World Events

Pick one of the following for next week:

France's new president

Taliban leader killed in Afghanistan

Wildfires in the US

5/14 Exploring the Student Times (Japan times student newspaper)

Do one of the following for next week;

1. Read the world and national news on the front page

2. Read some of the proverbs at the bottom of the front page

3. Read something from the back issues of news バックナンバー>>　ニュース　

4. Read something from the back issues of opinion バックナンバー>>　　オピニオン

5. Read something from the back issues of editorial バックナンバー>>　　社説　

6. Read something from the back issues of essay バックナンバー>>　エッセー

7. Do something else! Explore games, TOEIC etc.

5/7 Simultaneous murder events in Japan and the US!

READ ONE of these articles for next week

NEXT WEEK IS A HOLIDAY!! DON'T COME!

TOPIC for 5/7 Simultaneous murder events in Japan and the US!

Nagasaki votes for new mayor amid gun fears

Those who knew gunman return to classes

Cho family apology: We feel 'hopeless, helpless and lost'

AND let's watch the video!

4/23: UNIVERSITY ISSUES

NEXT WEEKS TOPICS Simultaneous murder events in Japan and the US!

READ ONE of these two articles for next week

Introduction to chat rooms:

• Click on the chatroom link below
• Use the following passwords -- chat1, chat2, chat3, chat4, chat5, chat6
• Talk about your answers to the discussion questions with the other students in the room!

FOR TODAY 4/16: Introduction to Current Events!

Discussion questions for questionnaire

Introduction to chat rooms:

Use the following passwords -- chat1, chat2, chat3, chat4, chat5, chat6

FOR NEXT WEEK 4/23: UNIVERSITY ISSUES

FOR TODAY 4/16: Discussion questions for questionnaire

ASSIGNMENT ROOM

FOR TODAY: Discussion questions for questionnaire

WELCOME TO TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH I 2007!

!! ASSIGNMENT ROOM

FOR 4/23 UNIVERSITY ISSUES

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING ARTICLE and prepare for a quiz!

CLICK HERE FOR CURRENT EVENTS DESCRIPTION

FOR 4/23 We will discuss "university issues today"

 PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING ARTICLE and prepare for a quiz!

Professor fired after student kills herself over too much homework

WELCOME TO TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH I 2007! Instructor: Judy Yoneoka judy@kumagaku.ac.jp

WELCOME EVERYONE -- This is your assignment section

WELCOME EVERYONE TO CURRENT EVENTS IN ENGLISH I 2007

for takashi

1/16/2007 TUESDAY/THURSDAY MAKE UP DAY

A Students please check here.

Other students please check here.

Please read the articles below and check the top ten news lists.

JAPANESE NEWS http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/editorial/20061226TDY04008.htm JAPANESE NEWS

WORLD NEWS http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/editorial/20061229TDY04004.htm WORLD NEWS

THEN TAKE TODAY'S QUIZ AND GO TO THE CHAT ROOMS--

• NOTE : Next Tuesday is 振り替え木曜日. 点数がＡに足りない人は授業中で出来なかった課題、点数が足りなかった前のチャットを補うチャンスになります。既にＡのある人は、希望者でコーパスツールを使って、北朝鮮のニュースの分析に挑戦します。

1/11/2007 HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE -- READY FOR OUR FINAL CHAT?

HERE WAS THE WORLD NEWS AND DOMESTIC NEWS FOR 2006---and we have some prize winners today!

 -----

WORLD NEWS

• 1. North Korea's nuclear test
• 2. Indonesia suffered another major earthquake, this time killing about 6,000 residents of central Java
• 3. In July, North Korea launched seven missiles, including the Taepodong-2 long-range ballistic missile, toward the Sea of Japan.
• 4. The demotion of Pluto
• 5. Democratic Party succeeded in obtaining majorities in both houses of Congress
• 6. November's death sentence for Saddam Hussein,
• 7. The price of crude oil continued its rise from the previous year
• 8. Human deaths from bird flu topped 100 in March and 150 by the end of October
• 9. Alexander Litvinenko--critic of President Vladimir Putin--died in London in November
• 10. In Mumbai, the almost-simultaneous bombings of seven trains and stations killed 179 people in July

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/editorial/20061229TDY04004.htm

DOMESTIC NEWS

• 1. birth of Prince Hisahito
• 2. Shizuka Arakawa's gold medal performance at the Turin Winter Olympic Games
• 3. Team Japan, led by Sadaharu Oh, won the first World Baseball Classic
• 4. The launch of the Cabinet of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe
• 5. victory of Waseda Jitsugyo High School in the final of the National High School Baseball Championship
• 6. Livedoor and Horie arrest
• 7. reports about suicides by children who were bullied at school
• 8. Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters' first victory in 44 years in baseball's Japan Series
• 9. children were victimized by adults who lacked basic human qualities
• 10. drunk driving by a Fukuoka municipal government employee in August