By Yuri Nishitani
When you come to Japan, you should obey the Japanese manner. First of all, greetings are an important thing in Japan. When you begin to eat foods, or finish, you must say some greeting words. If you don’t say these words, it’s impolite. Secondly, Japan has different customs from other countries. You must take off your shoes by the entrance. In most houses in Japan you are not allowed to come in the house with shoes on. Thirdly, there are many rules in Japanese table manners. You mustn’t stick chopsticks into rice and leave them there. It means a death. It’s rude to chew foods noisily. All of these things are very important in Japan.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Variety is the Spice of Life
By Sae Kubota
The expression, “Variety is the spice of life” is usually true. For example, we quarrel with brothers or friends or parents, but our bond can deepen in a quarrel. Then, we sometimes fail at something. But we can know the new things, and we can get something. And then, we can mature in a failure. Then we are in love with someone, and we associate with someone and split up. Those things happen to everyone. So life is good.
The expression, “Variety is the spice of life” is usually true. For example, we quarrel with brothers or friends or parents, but our bond can deepen in a quarrel. Then, we sometimes fail at something. But we can know the new things, and we can get something. And then, we can mature in a failure. Then we are in love with someone, and we associate with someone and split up. Those things happen to everyone. So life is good.
Learning by Listening
By Sae Kubota
I learn best by listening to people talk about things. For example, when I was an elementary school student, I joined the volleyball club. Then, my coach taught us the rule and how to do. I learned by listening and do an imitation of the coach. I earnestly listened to the rule. Other example, I learn by listening how to cook by my mother. I sometimes cook with my mother. Then, I listen carefully and cook.
I learn best by listening to people talk about things. For example, when I was an elementary school student, I joined the volleyball club. Then, my coach taught us the rule and how to do. I learned by listening and do an imitation of the coach. I earnestly listened to the rule. Other example, I learn by listening how to cook by my mother. I sometimes cook with my mother. Then, I listen carefully and cook.
The Influence of Family
By Sae Kubota
I am influenced by family. I think that many young adults are influenced by family. In my case, I tell my family anything. My family is a big part of my life for me, and for young adults. I tell my mother about friends, examinations, school, and so on, and I get some advice. Sometimes, I change my opinions and my ideas by my mother. I think that young adults are influenced by family.
I am influenced by family. I think that many young adults are influenced by family. In my case, I tell my family anything. My family is a big part of my life for me, and for young adults. I tell my mother about friends, examinations, school, and so on, and I get some advice. Sometimes, I change my opinions and my ideas by my mother. I think that young adults are influenced by family.
Reading 1, My New Business: An Explanation of the Assignment
By Pamela den Ouden
In our reading text, we read about how businesses use colour psychology. For example, many computer companies, like Dell and IBM, use blue because it gives the idea of dependability. UPS uses brown because brown is seen as a safe, dependable colour.
The assignment was to create a business, tell what the business did, choose colours for the business, and explain the choice of colours. In addition, there was a list of about 20 vocabulary words that students had to try to use as they wrote their description of their businesses.
The next eight articles (below) are the result! I think we were all very creative!
In our reading text, we read about how businesses use colour psychology. For example, many computer companies, like Dell and IBM, use blue because it gives the idea of dependability. UPS uses brown because brown is seen as a safe, dependable colour.
The assignment was to create a business, tell what the business did, choose colours for the business, and explain the choice of colours. In addition, there was a list of about 20 vocabulary words that students had to try to use as they wrote their description of their businesses.
The next eight articles (below) are the result! I think we were all very creative!
Monday, May 28, 2012
Reading 1, My New Business: A Garage
By Yohannes Feyissa
We would like to advertise. We hope to establish a garage. Our garage name is Peace and Love. This name depends on our company colors. Our company colors are red and white. Red is easy to remember and affects some people in different ways, especially love. White also is easy to remember and to show peace. So our company name represents love and peace. Our company service is to fix all varieties of cars and make a body. When you come in to our garage, we give a courtesy car. We encourage you to buy some shares in our garage, and the shares are almost ended, so be fast!
Before this business, when a car is hurt by anything, the person who wants the car to be fixed waited a long time, mostly more than six months. That’s not good for that person, and we give fast service with pure doing.
We would like to advertise. We hope to establish a garage. Our garage name is Peace and Love. This name depends on our company colors. Our company colors are red and white. Red is easy to remember and affects some people in different ways, especially love. White also is easy to remember and to show peace. So our company name represents love and peace. Our company service is to fix all varieties of cars and make a body. When you come in to our garage, we give a courtesy car. We encourage you to buy some shares in our garage, and the shares are almost ended, so be fast!
Before this business, when a car is hurt by anything, the person who wants the car to be fixed waited a long time, mostly more than six months. That’s not good for that person, and we give fast service with pure doing.
Reading 1, My New Business: An Indian Restaurant
By Amandeep Dhillon
I would like to establish an Indian restaurant in Fort St. John. I would give “Zira Indian Restaurant” as the name of that restaurant. I would colour the outside walls of the restaurant brown and sky blue. Brown is a safe and reliable colour, and sky blue is a natural colour and reminds us about environment. I would colour light brown walls with dark boundary. I would give the bright colour to the sign. I would give the red and green colour to the sign because this colour catches everyone’s eyes easily. The staff uniforms would be sky blue. Blue is the colour of the sky, oceans, and lakes, so it makes us think about air, water, and peace. It would affect the people’s feeling. All dishes and napkins would be white. It represents goodness. The floor would be dark brown.
I would serve a variety of Indian food here, so I consider people would enjoy that food here without going to any specific place. I hope it encourages the people to buy or eat food from here. It makes me joyful. I am sure we will give a great service to the people. I consider I will give advertising in newspapers and magazines. It’s a universal fact that people want to eat food from different countries. I mean they like to eat different food. We will provide the food related with Indian culture. I would like to be a dependable owner. We will give a special present for a bride and a groom if somebody is going to have their marriage party in our restaurant. In this way, it will be helpful to change the emotion and psychology of people about our restaurant.
I would like to establish an Indian restaurant in Fort St. John. I would give “Zira Indian Restaurant” as the name of that restaurant. I would colour the outside walls of the restaurant brown and sky blue. Brown is a safe and reliable colour, and sky blue is a natural colour and reminds us about environment. I would colour light brown walls with dark boundary. I would give the bright colour to the sign. I would give the red and green colour to the sign because this colour catches everyone’s eyes easily. The staff uniforms would be sky blue. Blue is the colour of the sky, oceans, and lakes, so it makes us think about air, water, and peace. It would affect the people’s feeling. All dishes and napkins would be white. It represents goodness. The floor would be dark brown.
I would serve a variety of Indian food here, so I consider people would enjoy that food here without going to any specific place. I hope it encourages the people to buy or eat food from here. It makes me joyful. I am sure we will give a great service to the people. I consider I will give advertising in newspapers and magazines. It’s a universal fact that people want to eat food from different countries. I mean they like to eat different food. We will provide the food related with Indian culture. I would like to be a dependable owner. We will give a special present for a bride and a groom if somebody is going to have their marriage party in our restaurant. In this way, it will be helpful to change the emotion and psychology of people about our restaurant.
Reading 1, My New Business: A Clothing Store
By Masami Taguchi
I would like to establish a clothing store. The name of my shop is MNMK. This means the initials of my brother and sisters. As you can see, I initiate the shop with my family. In my shop, there are many varieties of stylish clothes, mainly shoes and heels which we gathered from all over the world. My young sister and I gather those, and my older sister and brother start servicing. They also consider and create the advertising. I target specific young women who are interested in fashionable clothes. I would like to use red on advertising because red is my favorite color and has an effect of increasing purchase power. When I look at the advertising every time, I feel positive and motivated. Some clothing stores use red color on advertising, like H & M and Uniclo, which are my favorite clothing shops. In addition, I would like to use white in the store. White is peaceful and pure. When customers enter the store, they feel comfortable, and they consider that this shop is clean. So I want to use red and white.
I would like to establish a clothing store. The name of my shop is MNMK. This means the initials of my brother and sisters. As you can see, I initiate the shop with my family. In my shop, there are many varieties of stylish clothes, mainly shoes and heels which we gathered from all over the world. My young sister and I gather those, and my older sister and brother start servicing. They also consider and create the advertising. I target specific young women who are interested in fashionable clothes. I would like to use red on advertising because red is my favorite color and has an effect of increasing purchase power. When I look at the advertising every time, I feel positive and motivated. Some clothing stores use red color on advertising, like H & M and Uniclo, which are my favorite clothing shops. In addition, I would like to use white in the store. White is peaceful and pure. When customers enter the store, they feel comfortable, and they consider that this shop is clean. So I want to use red and white.
Reading 1, My New Business: A Cupcake Shop
By Asami Kawamura
I want to establish a new business. It’s a kind of dessert shop business. The name of my business is “Cupcake.” I want to use pink and white and sky blue for the inside of my business. I want to use white and yellow for advertisements. The target for this new business is women, specifically the teenage market. I think most teenage girls like pink. I think pink makes people have excited feelings and it is bright. This color is also a striking color. I want to use the color blue, the colors of the sky, to show that my store is dependable. The color white gives the impression of being a clean place. In the United States, white represents goodness because it’s usually the color of a bride’s wedding dress. This shop serves a variety of desserts. For example, cake, ice cream, pie, and cupcake.
I want to establish a new business. It’s a kind of dessert shop business. The name of my business is “Cupcake.” I want to use pink and white and sky blue for the inside of my business. I want to use white and yellow for advertisements. The target for this new business is women, specifically the teenage market. I think most teenage girls like pink. I think pink makes people have excited feelings and it is bright. This color is also a striking color. I want to use the color blue, the colors of the sky, to show that my store is dependable. The color white gives the impression of being a clean place. In the United States, white represents goodness because it’s usually the color of a bride’s wedding dress. This shop serves a variety of desserts. For example, cake, ice cream, pie, and cupcake.
Reading 1, My New Business: A Clothing Shop
By Sae Kubota
Company name: Elle
Product or service: clothing shop
Main colors: light pink and light purple
Reason for choosing these colors: I like these colors. These colors make me feel cheerful and cute.
My company is a clothing shop. The name is “Elle.” I like clothes very much, so I want to sell at a low price a variety of clothes from baby to older people. These colors make me feel cheerful and excited, and I like light pink and light purple very much. I think any customers also feel cheerful and joyful. I want to use off-white for the inside because it would be a safer color. I want to use light pink for advertisements.
Company name: Elle
Product or service: clothing shop
Main colors: light pink and light purple
Reason for choosing these colors: I like these colors. These colors make me feel cheerful and cute.
My company is a clothing shop. The name is “Elle.” I like clothes very much, so I want to sell at a low price a variety of clothes from baby to older people. These colors make me feel cheerful and excited, and I like light pink and light purple very much. I think any customers also feel cheerful and joyful. I want to use off-white for the inside because it would be a safer color. I want to use light pink for advertisements.
Reading 1, My New Business: A Supermarket
By Yuri Nishitani
Company name: World Kitchen
Product or service: supermarket
Main colors: green and orange
Reason for choosing these colors: I think green means leaf, natures, and fresh. Orange means sun, nature, and cheerful.
I’m planning to establish a supermarket which is named “World Kitchen.” I’ll explain about the store. First, it has a variety of foods from around the world, so we could provide anything for customers. Customers get a chance to experience different food cultures in their homeland. This supermarket is like a huge refrigerator. We offer as good a service as we can. Secondly, I’d like to use two colors which are green and orange. Green is the color of a leaf, and it might mean “fresh.” Orange is the color of the sun, and it is a kind of cheerful color. I think both of these colors also have a meaning which is “nature.” I could associate these colors with a life. I hope the World Kitchen will be part of your life,k and near to you. In addition, this is the desire of my heartk that the World Kitchen will become a universal company!
Company name: World Kitchen
Product or service: supermarket
Main colors: green and orange
Reason for choosing these colors: I think green means leaf, natures, and fresh. Orange means sun, nature, and cheerful.
I’m planning to establish a supermarket which is named “World Kitchen.” I’ll explain about the store. First, it has a variety of foods from around the world, so we could provide anything for customers. Customers get a chance to experience different food cultures in their homeland. This supermarket is like a huge refrigerator. We offer as good a service as we can. Secondly, I’d like to use two colors which are green and orange. Green is the color of a leaf, and it might mean “fresh.” Orange is the color of the sun, and it is a kind of cheerful color. I think both of these colors also have a meaning which is “nature.” I could associate these colors with a life. I hope the World Kitchen will be part of your life,k and near to you. In addition, this is the desire of my heartk that the World Kitchen will become a universal company!
Reading 1, My New Business: A Computer Store
By Sam Cheang
I want to have my own business. It is a universal computer store. Its name is Okay. I want to use the light orange color because that color catches people’s eyes easily. It will sell computer equipment. Also you can see our products on the advertising. We have a variety of our products, so we can offer everything that you want. Our products are dependable and specific. They aren’t dangerous. In addition, I consider customers when they wait a long time to pay for their products. It will affect the customers’ emotions. For sure, our store environment is good, but I encourage our customers to buy those products on the website, and I want to establish a delivery service. I hope it will bring a convenience for any customers. Their feelings are joyful.
I want to have my own business. It is a universal computer store. Its name is Okay. I want to use the light orange color because that color catches people’s eyes easily. It will sell computer equipment. Also you can see our products on the advertising. We have a variety of our products, so we can offer everything that you want. Our products are dependable and specific. They aren’t dangerous. In addition, I consider customers when they wait a long time to pay for their products. It will affect the customers’ emotions. For sure, our store environment is good, but I encourage our customers to buy those products on the website, and I want to establish a delivery service. I hope it will bring a convenience for any customers. Their feelings are joyful.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Reading 1, My New Business: Theodore's Bears and Books
By Pamela den Ouden
Theodore’s Bears and Books My dream is to establish a business that sells teddy bears and children’s books. The name of my store is “Theodore’s Bears and Books.” Both books and bears have a universal appeal to children and adults alike. After all, Winnie-the-Pooh and Paddington Bear are part of the culture of childhood. The colours in the store advertising would be navy blue, light blue, and white. The colours are dignified and psychologically have a calming effect. Comfortable chairs covered in soft navy blue fabric with light blue toss cushions would provide a place for customers to relax as they choose their books and bears.
The mascot, Theodore Bear, would wear a navy blue vest over a pale blue shirt. The wording on the advertising sign would be white on navy blue. Customers would be encouraged to browse through the bookshelves and to handle the bears, carefully, of course! The store would have a daily story time, which would give the children something to look forward to and another reason to come into the store. There would be a seating area with tables and chairs. Tea and small sandwiches and cakes would be served daily at 4 p.m. for a modest price. The tablecloths would be navy blue and napkins would be a crisp white. Plates and cups would be pale blue. The environment would be relaxing but elegant.
Tea time and story time will affect traffic in the store in a positive way. Children could stop off on the way home from school to hear a story and have a bite to eat. Parents out shopping could stop by for tea or coffee before heading home. Everyone will have positive feelings and experiences at “Theodore’s Bears and Books.” Even though a business like this represents a lot of hard work, and there is always the danger that it will be crowded out by the big chain book and toy stores, I like to consider that I would be a kind and dependable owner, providing great service and a variety of products. It will truly be a joyful place..
This is a dream of mine that may or may not come true, but dreaming about it makes me joyful. I can dream, can’t I?
Theodore’s Bears and Books My dream is to establish a business that sells teddy bears and children’s books. The name of my store is “Theodore’s Bears and Books.” Both books and bears have a universal appeal to children and adults alike. After all, Winnie-the-Pooh and Paddington Bear are part of the culture of childhood. The colours in the store advertising would be navy blue, light blue, and white. The colours are dignified and psychologically have a calming effect. Comfortable chairs covered in soft navy blue fabric with light blue toss cushions would provide a place for customers to relax as they choose their books and bears.
The mascot, Theodore Bear, would wear a navy blue vest over a pale blue shirt. The wording on the advertising sign would be white on navy blue. Customers would be encouraged to browse through the bookshelves and to handle the bears, carefully, of course! The store would have a daily story time, which would give the children something to look forward to and another reason to come into the store. There would be a seating area with tables and chairs. Tea and small sandwiches and cakes would be served daily at 4 p.m. for a modest price. The tablecloths would be navy blue and napkins would be a crisp white. Plates and cups would be pale blue. The environment would be relaxing but elegant.
Tea time and story time will affect traffic in the store in a positive way. Children could stop off on the way home from school to hear a story and have a bite to eat. Parents out shopping could stop by for tea or coffee before heading home. Everyone will have positive feelings and experiences at “Theodore’s Bears and Books.” Even though a business like this represents a lot of hard work, and there is always the danger that it will be crowded out by the big chain book and toy stores, I like to consider that I would be a kind and dependable owner, providing great service and a variety of products. It will truly be a joyful place..
This is a dream of mine that may or may not come true, but dreaming about it makes me joyful. I can dream, can’t I?
Eating Habits in Macau and Canada
By Sam Cheang
There are several differences in the eating habits between Macau and Canada. First, Cantonese like to eat rice every day, but Canadians usually like to eat hamburger or meat for their main part of dinner and have some salad. In contrast, in Macau, they eat dessert after supper. Second, Cantonese like drinking tea when they eat breakfast or supper while Canadians like drinking pop or milk. Third, Cantonese use chopsticks at supper, but Canadians usually use fork and knife. We have different eating habits.
There are several differences in the eating habits between Macau and Canada. First, Cantonese like to eat rice every day, but Canadians usually like to eat hamburger or meat for their main part of dinner and have some salad. In contrast, in Macau, they eat dessert after supper. Second, Cantonese like drinking tea when they eat breakfast or supper while Canadians like drinking pop or milk. Third, Cantonese use chopsticks at supper, but Canadians usually use fork and knife. We have different eating habits.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
The Causes of Population Increase
By Sam Cheang
The population increases for three main reasons. First, scientists are advanced in medicine every day, so humans' health gets improvement. Second, we are living in a good environment. Third, farmers have improved farming methods that produce more and better food. Finally, above all of the information, the infant death is decreased. Instead, more people can stretch their living longer.
The population increases for three main reasons. First, scientists are advanced in medicine every day, so humans' health gets improvement. Second, we are living in a good environment. Third, farmers have improved farming methods that produce more and better food. Finally, above all of the information, the infant death is decreased. Instead, more people can stretch their living longer.
Why I Moved to Macau
By Sam Cheang
I decided to move to Macau for four reasons. I want to find a better job and have a stable income. Other things attracted me to move to Macau because it has a different climate in each season. Most people like to live in a place of safety instead of living in a dangerous environment that has a lot of crimes. In addition, everybody wants a place with a lower cost of living. So do I. For all these reasons, I know Macau is a nice place.
I decided to move to Macau for four reasons. I want to find a better job and have a stable income. Other things attracted me to move to Macau because it has a different climate in each season. Most people like to live in a place of safety instead of living in a dangerous environment that has a lot of crimes. In addition, everybody wants a place with a lower cost of living. So do I. For all these reasons, I know Macau is a nice place.
My Class Room
By Yohannes Feyissa
My classroom is medium and the color of the walls is white. There are four windows, two boards and so many tables and chairs. There is a television and projector. The desks are arranged just like small alphabet (n) shape or (u) shape. The teacher sits in front of the students. The door is beside the teacher. I like it because I feel freedom. It depends on the walls’ color and desks’ arrangement, especially the way to teach.
My classroom is medium and the color of the walls is white. There are four windows, two boards and so many tables and chairs. There is a television and projector. The desks are arranged just like small alphabet (n) shape or (u) shape. The teacher sits in front of the students. The door is beside the teacher. I like it because I feel freedom. It depends on the walls’ color and desks’ arrangement, especially the way to teach.
My Favorite Holiday
By Yohannes Feyissa
My favorite holiday is Easter. We celebrate in the middle of April. That day when the celebration day always all businesses are closed except private businesses and places for enjoyment. We celebrate this holiday in peace and love. We also celebrate with street boys and girls, give some food and clothes to a beggar. Our special food is called injera with doro wet. We were in that day if we have! Usually we used traditional clothes. We celebrate with family in church and home. Sometimes we give or receive gifts to each other, especially for the old person in the house like grandfather, grandmother. I like this holiday because I believe in God and his risen Son.
My favorite holiday is Easter. We celebrate in the middle of April. That day when the celebration day always all businesses are closed except private businesses and places for enjoyment. We celebrate this holiday in peace and love. We also celebrate with street boys and girls, give some food and clothes to a beggar. Our special food is called injera with doro wet. We were in that day if we have! Usually we used traditional clothes. We celebrate with family in church and home. Sometimes we give or receive gifts to each other, especially for the old person in the house like grandfather, grandmother. I like this holiday because I believe in God and his risen Son.
My Helpful Brother
By Yohannes Feyissa
Kib is a very helpful person. First of all, he helps a patient people in hospital without charging and his gives so many gifts to them. He also helps his family by buying his own clothes, shoes, and everything he wants. He always helps me by every way, especially by English language.
Kib is a very helpful person. First of all, he helps a patient people in hospital without charging and his gives so many gifts to them. He also helps his family by buying his own clothes, shoes, and everything he wants. He always helps me by every way, especially by English language.
The Best Gift I Ever Had
By Yohannes Feyissa
The best give I ever had: my brother gave me a phone. The phone name was Nokia. Ii was made of plastic and the colour was black. The phone helps me communicate with my friends and my uncle’s family, so I like it very much, but my main reason of why I like it is that’s my first phone and a big gift from my brother. That’s why.
The best give I ever had: my brother gave me a phone. The phone name was Nokia. Ii was made of plastic and the colour was black. The phone helps me communicate with my friends and my uncle’s family, so I like it very much, but my main reason of why I like it is that’s my first phone and a big gift from my brother. That’s why.
My Dream Car
By Yohannes Feyissa
This is my dream car. It’s a blue-black or black car. It has six doors and is a sport model. The kind of seats are bucket seats. It has a CD player. By the way, it is hybrid and has GPS.
This is my dream car. It’s a blue-black or black car. It has six doors and is a sport model. The kind of seats are bucket seats. It has a CD player. By the way, it is hybrid and has GPS.
Who I Am
My name is Yohannes. I am short and athletic. I have short and black hair and average brown eyes. Today, I am wearing a leather jacket, trousers, and also I am wearing loafer shoes.
A New International Student
By Asami Kawamura
We have a new international student! His name is Jorge. He is from Colombia. His native language is Spanish. He learns English because he needs it. His hobbies are to play soccer and to take a picture and photograph collection. His is a family of 4 in Colombia. But now he lives with his mother in Canada. He has taken a part-time njob in Colombia. It’s a kind of marketing job.
We have a new international student! His name is Jorge. He is from Colombia. His native language is Spanish. He learns English because he needs it. His hobbies are to play soccer and to take a picture and photograph collection. His is a family of 4 in Colombia. But now he lives with his mother in Canada. He has taken a part-time njob in Colombia. It’s a kind of marketing job.
How to Make New Friends
By Asami Kawamura
I want to give some advice about how to make new friends. First of all, it’s important to keep smiling when you talk to a new person. Second, don’t be afraid to talk with new people. When you talk to a new person, you should ask questions as much as you can. Then you should take a positive attitude toward new friends. You don’t have to be afraid of talking to new people.
I want to give some advice about how to make new friends. First of all, it’s important to keep smiling when you talk to a new person. Second, don’t be afraid to talk with new people. When you talk to a new person, you should ask questions as much as you can. Then you should take a positive attitude toward new friends. You don’t have to be afraid of talking to new people.
Why I Like Music
By Asami Kawamura
I like music for several reasons. First of all, music makes me happy. So I’m always listening to music. Second, there are many kinds of music types. I can enjoy many types of music. I like musical film, too. Music can express feeling or situation. I can listen to music many kinds of ways these days. For example, there are CDs, MDs, iPhone, and record player. Music is used around the world. Music is popular all over the world. Anyway, I am a music lover!!
I like music for several reasons. First of all, music makes me happy. So I’m always listening to music. Second, there are many kinds of music types. I can enjoy many types of music. I like musical film, too. Music can express feeling or situation. I can listen to music many kinds of ways these days. For example, there are CDs, MDs, iPhone, and record player. Music is used around the world. Music is popular all over the world. Anyway, I am a music lover!!
My Weekends
By Asami Kawamura
There are several things I like to do on the weekend. First of all, I like to go shopping. Second, I enjoy many types of sports. Especially, I love volleyball. I do yoga on the weekend. Third, I like to clean my house. Four, I like to hang out with my peers! Five, I don’t do cooking on ordinary days, so I do cooking on the weekend. Last, I always study English on the weekend.
There are several things I like to do on the weekend. First of all, I like to go shopping. Second, I enjoy many types of sports. Especially, I love volleyball. I do yoga on the weekend. Third, I like to clean my house. Four, I like to hang out with my peers! Five, I don’t do cooking on ordinary days, so I do cooking on the weekend. Last, I always study English on the weekend.
I Would Rather Live in a Small Town
By Asami Kawamura
I would rather live in a small town than a big city. There are several disadvantages of living in a big city. First of all, the big cities are full of allurements. Second, there is a lot of crime in the big cities. The hustle and bustle of the big city makes me exhausted. Third, life in the big city wears people down. When I lived in a big city, I felt the stress of urban life more than when I lived in a small city. That’s why I’d like to live in a small city.
I would rather live in a small town than a big city. There are several disadvantages of living in a big city. First of all, the big cities are full of allurements. Second, there is a lot of crime in the big cities. The hustle and bustle of the big city makes me exhausted. Third, life in the big city wears people down. When I lived in a big city, I felt the stress of urban life more than when I lived in a small city. That’s why I’d like to live in a small city.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Book Review: The Barrio Kings
By Masami Koguchi
This book was written by William Kowalski. The main character is named Rosario Gomez. He is 23 years old. He used to be in a gang, but he gave up gang life after his brother was killed in a street fight. After that, he is very busy every day because he goes to night school and works hard at the supermarked to get promoted. In addition, he has a girlfriend, Connie. She is pregnant, so he works hard for them and to spend a happy life with them. But, one day, his old gangbanger buddy shows up seeking revenge. He makes Connie and Rosario fear because he is crazy. He had promised Connie to never do a fight same as the past. One day, his pregnant girl friend, is hit in drive-by shooting. Then Rosario went to his enemy’s house to get revenge of Connie with the gun and old gangbanger. His enemy was name Lencho. He killed Rosario’s brother in street a few days ago. Rosario talked to Lencho. Then he didn’t shoot Connie. In fact, Lencho’s gangbanger shot her without consideration of Lencho. Lencho punched him in the face hard. Then it’s over. After that, Rosario became a manager at the supermarket and graduated night school and had a baby. He lives a happy life with family. I recommend this book because although Rosario used to be in a gang, he work hard to his dream and he loves her so much. The last chapter filled with happiness. When I read this book, I felt good.
This book was written by William Kowalski. The main character is named Rosario Gomez. He is 23 years old. He used to be in a gang, but he gave up gang life after his brother was killed in a street fight. After that, he is very busy every day because he goes to night school and works hard at the supermarked to get promoted. In addition, he has a girlfriend, Connie. She is pregnant, so he works hard for them and to spend a happy life with them. But, one day, his old gangbanger buddy shows up seeking revenge. He makes Connie and Rosario fear because he is crazy. He had promised Connie to never do a fight same as the past. One day, his pregnant girl friend, is hit in drive-by shooting. Then Rosario went to his enemy’s house to get revenge of Connie with the gun and old gangbanger. His enemy was name Lencho. He killed Rosario’s brother in street a few days ago. Rosario talked to Lencho. Then he didn’t shoot Connie. In fact, Lencho’s gangbanger shot her without consideration of Lencho. Lencho punched him in the face hard. Then it’s over. After that, Rosario became a manager at the supermarket and graduated night school and had a baby. He lives a happy life with family. I recommend this book because although Rosario used to be in a gang, he work hard to his dream and he loves her so much. The last chapter filled with happiness. When I read this book, I felt good.
Friday, May 18, 2012
Book Review: The Last of the Mohicans
By Masami Koguchi
The title is The Last of the Mohicans. The Mohicans means one of the Indian tribes. This book was written by James Fenimore Cooper. It was made into a movie. It is one of the famous American pieces of literature.
This story took place at Lake Horican on the Hudson River (the author gave this name to Lake George). It is in the east of North America. Today, the area is called New York state. At the time of this story, North America was not independent. North America became independent from Europe in 1787.
This story’s time is 1757. Armies from England and France are fighting in North America. Both countries want the land. The Indian people had lived in the land for thousands of years. They got their food from the land. They hunted deer, bears, and birds in the forests. They ate the meat from these animals and made clothes from animals' skin. In 1607, English people came to North America. The next year, French people came. They took the soft animals’ skins to Europe.
Soon more and more Europeans came. They wanted the Indians’ land. The kings of France and England sent soldiers to North America. The soldiers built strong forts to live in. The soldiers brought guns. The Indians fought for the armies from England and France.
In this story, the Hurons are one of the Indian tribes that are fighting for the French. The Nohawks are fighting for England. This is a story of two daughters of the English and several Indian men. Chingachgook and Uncas were the Mohicans, but Uncas was finally killed by Mugua. He is also Indian, but he snatched the English sisters. Uncas was killed by Mugua to protect her. Her name is Cora. Then, Cora killed herself. Finally, Chingachgook became the last of the Mohicans.
I recommend this book because I could read it easily and it uses clear grammar and vocabulary. I could learn the history of North America. So I want to watch this movie.
The title is The Last of the Mohicans. The Mohicans means one of the Indian tribes. This book was written by James Fenimore Cooper. It was made into a movie. It is one of the famous American pieces of literature.
This story took place at Lake Horican on the Hudson River (the author gave this name to Lake George). It is in the east of North America. Today, the area is called New York state. At the time of this story, North America was not independent. North America became independent from Europe in 1787.
This story’s time is 1757. Armies from England and France are fighting in North America. Both countries want the land. The Indian people had lived in the land for thousands of years. They got their food from the land. They hunted deer, bears, and birds in the forests. They ate the meat from these animals and made clothes from animals' skin. In 1607, English people came to North America. The next year, French people came. They took the soft animals’ skins to Europe.
Soon more and more Europeans came. They wanted the Indians’ land. The kings of France and England sent soldiers to North America. The soldiers built strong forts to live in. The soldiers brought guns. The Indians fought for the armies from England and France.
In this story, the Hurons are one of the Indian tribes that are fighting for the French. The Nohawks are fighting for England. This is a story of two daughters of the English and several Indian men. Chingachgook and Uncas were the Mohicans, but Uncas was finally killed by Mugua. He is also Indian, but he snatched the English sisters. Uncas was killed by Mugua to protect her. Her name is Cora. Then, Cora killed herself. Finally, Chingachgook became the last of the Mohicans.
I recommend this book because I could read it easily and it uses clear grammar and vocabulary. I could learn the history of North America. So I want to watch this movie.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
My Bedroom Shows My Personality
By Ira King
As you walk into my room, you will see the tidy bed with white cotton sheets and duvet cover at the centre of the room. A neat bed always looks good, and quality, comfort and relaxation are really important for me. There is a dresser with a big mirror on the left side of the bed with many novels on the top. You can tell that I like to read before sleeping. There are fresh flowers on the top of the dresser, expressing how I love freshness and beauty. On the left side of the bed, there is a big walk-in closet. I have organized clothes according to colors and seasons and similar clothes are kept together. This saves my time when getting dressed in the morning.
As you walk into my room, you will see the tidy bed with white cotton sheets and duvet cover at the centre of the room. A neat bed always looks good, and quality, comfort and relaxation are really important for me. There is a dresser with a big mirror on the left side of the bed with many novels on the top. You can tell that I like to read before sleeping. There are fresh flowers on the top of the dresser, expressing how I love freshness and beauty. On the left side of the bed, there is a big walk-in closet. I have organized clothes according to colors and seasons and similar clothes are kept together. This saves my time when getting dressed in the morning.
My School Student Lounge
By Asami Kawamura
My school student lounge is very big, so it is comfortable and quiet. The dark orange walls have an exciting effect on me. There is the vending machine in the left rear corner. The small drink shelf is next to the vending machine. The kitchen is in the middle of the room on the wall. The menu signboard is hung on the right side of the kitchen. There is the small shelf next to the kitchen. There are some free drink pots on the small shelf. There are many fluorescent lights on the ceiling.
My school student lounge is very big, so it is comfortable and quiet. The dark orange walls have an exciting effect on me. There is the vending machine in the left rear corner. The small drink shelf is next to the vending machine. The kitchen is in the middle of the room on the wall. The menu signboard is hung on the right side of the kitchen. There is the small shelf next to the kitchen. There are some free drink pots on the small shelf. There are many fluorescent lights on the ceiling.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
E-Readers: A New Trend
By Pamela den Ouden
E-readers are a popular trend with people of all ages. An e-reader is a small electronic screen onto which whole books can be downloaded. E-readers help people connect with classic and contemporary books. People can talk with their friends about the books they read. E-readers are easy to carry and use. They can hold thousands of books at a time. Even elementary school cildren are becoming more interested in reading because of this trend. People are used to getting information from screens, and now they can read books on a screen. I have never tried an e-reader, but I would like to!
E-readers are a popular trend with people of all ages. An e-reader is a small electronic screen onto which whole books can be downloaded. E-readers help people connect with classic and contemporary books. People can talk with their friends about the books they read. E-readers are easy to carry and use. They can hold thousands of books at a time. Even elementary school cildren are becoming more interested in reading because of this trend. People are used to getting information from screens, and now they can read books on a screen. I have never tried an e-reader, but I would like to!
The Past Ten Years
By Lin Lin
My life has been changed a lot since 2000. I graduated from my high school in 2000. I didn’t get any good offer for the university. At that time, my mum gave me two opinions to choose: go to college or go abroad. I didn’t even think about it. I told my mum I would love to go abroad. Since then my life has been changed.
In 2001, I packed up my stuff when I was ready to go to my new direction. I didn’t spend too much time to settle into my new life. I went to school, found a job, and met a lot of new friends. At the end of 2003, accidentally, I met my husband. I started to build a family. After we met each other’s parents, I was planning to have a baby. In 2006, lucky me, we had a baby girl. I started to learn what the responsibility means. I needed to look for a job and save some money for my daughter’s future. When I got a job as a clerk in the Chinese clinic, I didn’t have time to look after my baby girl. I had to let her grandparents take care of her. But I promised myself I would bring her back to me in four years.
I worked a year in the Chinese clinic. At that time, I began to feel my knowledge wasn’t good enough. I decided to go to school. I picked up a nursing course. That course was related to my last job. A year after I had done studying, I got a job offer from a nursing home. However, I knew I wanted to bring my baby girl back to me, and I didn’t want to go back to China. I should change my situation: to get PR (Permanent Resident) or citizen in Ireland.
Then my husband and I began to find how we can apply for PR or citizen. We applied but were not successful. People always say: if God closes a door, he opens a window. By chance, I saw a message from a web site. Depending on my skill and my work experience, I could immigrate to Canada. I was so surprised and so excited. But the bad condition is I needed to go to Canada first. After I worked two years, I could bring my family here. I told this information to my husband, and he stood by me to do this thing.
2010 is my second important milestone. I had to leave the country that I had been living in for 10 years and go to another strange country. But whatever, the choice is right or wrong. I could only do it now—just step on it. I packed up my stuff again, said good-bye to my families again. I crossed my fingers to myself. I would bring my daughter back to me as soon as possible. This is my story for my past 10 years.
My life has been changed a lot since 2000. I graduated from my high school in 2000. I didn’t get any good offer for the university. At that time, my mum gave me two opinions to choose: go to college or go abroad. I didn’t even think about it. I told my mum I would love to go abroad. Since then my life has been changed.
In 2001, I packed up my stuff when I was ready to go to my new direction. I didn’t spend too much time to settle into my new life. I went to school, found a job, and met a lot of new friends. At the end of 2003, accidentally, I met my husband. I started to build a family. After we met each other’s parents, I was planning to have a baby. In 2006, lucky me, we had a baby girl. I started to learn what the responsibility means. I needed to look for a job and save some money for my daughter’s future. When I got a job as a clerk in the Chinese clinic, I didn’t have time to look after my baby girl. I had to let her grandparents take care of her. But I promised myself I would bring her back to me in four years.
I worked a year in the Chinese clinic. At that time, I began to feel my knowledge wasn’t good enough. I decided to go to school. I picked up a nursing course. That course was related to my last job. A year after I had done studying, I got a job offer from a nursing home. However, I knew I wanted to bring my baby girl back to me, and I didn’t want to go back to China. I should change my situation: to get PR (Permanent Resident) or citizen in Ireland.
Then my husband and I began to find how we can apply for PR or citizen. We applied but were not successful. People always say: if God closes a door, he opens a window. By chance, I saw a message from a web site. Depending on my skill and my work experience, I could immigrate to Canada. I was so surprised and so excited. But the bad condition is I needed to go to Canada first. After I worked two years, I could bring my family here. I told this information to my husband, and he stood by me to do this thing.
2010 is my second important milestone. I had to leave the country that I had been living in for 10 years and go to another strange country. But whatever, the choice is right or wrong. I could only do it now—just step on it. I packed up my stuff again, said good-bye to my families again. I crossed my fingers to myself. I would bring my daughter back to me as soon as possible. This is my story for my past 10 years.
Monday, May 14, 2012
My Weekend Trip to Another City
By Ira King
Finally spring has sprung. After knowing how much money was left after the winter, I decided to go to Vancouver Island and Victoria for the next long weekend. Lucky me to have Aeroplan points. This helps me to cut down the budget. I will take a flight from Fort St. John to Vancouver. Then I will go to Vancouver Island by ferry, where my father-in-law lives. I planned to stay at my father-in-law’s house for two days. On the second day, I will go to Victoria. I have booked a nice hotel in front of the harbour near downtown. I am sure I will have a fantastic weekend trip!
Finally spring has sprung. After knowing how much money was left after the winter, I decided to go to Vancouver Island and Victoria for the next long weekend. Lucky me to have Aeroplan points. This helps me to cut down the budget. I will take a flight from Fort St. John to Vancouver. Then I will go to Vancouver Island by ferry, where my father-in-law lives. I planned to stay at my father-in-law’s house for two days. On the second day, I will go to Victoria. I have booked a nice hotel in front of the harbour near downtown. I am sure I will have a fantastic weekend trip!
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Kyoto: A Great Place to Visit
By Sae Kubota
Kyoto is a great place to visit. First of all, there are many temples and shrines in Kyoto, so you can pray at a temple or a shrine. Also, you can know the history of Kyoto. Next, there are many shops and restaurants, so you can buy many souvenirs, and you can eat delicious food. Tofu is very good. Finally, there are many places of scenic beauty, so you can take many pictures, and it will be a good memory. Kyoto is a wonderful place.
Kyoto is a great place to visit. First of all, there are many temples and shrines in Kyoto, so you can pray at a temple or a shrine. Also, you can know the history of Kyoto. Next, there are many shops and restaurants, so you can buy many souvenirs, and you can eat delicious food. Tofu is very good. Finally, there are many places of scenic beauty, so you can take many pictures, and it will be a good memory. Kyoto is a wonderful place.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
3D Movies are a Hit!
By Asami Kawamura
The popular trend in technology is 3D movies. 3D movies are a popular trend with people of all age. By 3D movies, we can see a screen in three dimensions. We can share surprise or impression. The difference between a former movie and 3D movies is that an image jumps out of the screen. Even if you didn't see the former movie at the theater, it was able to be enjoyed enough also on television in a house or on a DVD. So more people come to go to a movie theater. Therefore, the profit of movie theaters goes up. This trend spreads by many advertisements, such as television, a newspaper and radio. These days, 3D home television, Blue-ray 3D, a record player, and software are also put on the market. 3D will evolve rapidly.
The popular trend in technology is 3D movies. 3D movies are a popular trend with people of all age. By 3D movies, we can see a screen in three dimensions. We can share surprise or impression. The difference between a former movie and 3D movies is that an image jumps out of the screen. Even if you didn't see the former movie at the theater, it was able to be enjoyed enough also on television in a house or on a DVD. So more people come to go to a movie theater. Therefore, the profit of movie theaters goes up. This trend spreads by many advertisements, such as television, a newspaper and radio. These days, 3D home television, Blue-ray 3D, a record player, and software are also put on the market. 3D will evolve rapidly.
iPads are a New Trend
By Amandeep Dhillon
An iPad is very popular in these days. First of all, a trend means the thing that is becoming popular. For example, a few years ago, the computer was popular, but now the iPad is very popular. Second, the trend helps the people to connect to and keep in touch with others. For instance, if people have an iPad, then people can text each other and do face time with each other. Next the trend is popular from person to person. If anybody sees the thing that is good and useful, people want to have that thing. In this way, the thing spreads from person to person. Then it influences us to buy the thing. The most important thing is that an iPad is more ompact than a laptop, so you can take it anywhere and put it into your small purse. Finally, most of the functions are the same as a computer’s. In the end, we can say that an iPad is very useful in these days.
An iPad is very popular in these days. First of all, a trend means the thing that is becoming popular. For example, a few years ago, the computer was popular, but now the iPad is very popular. Second, the trend helps the people to connect to and keep in touch with others. For instance, if people have an iPad, then people can text each other and do face time with each other. Next the trend is popular from person to person. If anybody sees the thing that is good and useful, people want to have that thing. In this way, the thing spreads from person to person. Then it influences us to buy the thing. The most important thing is that an iPad is more ompact than a laptop, so you can take it anywhere and put it into your small purse. Finally, most of the functions are the same as a computer’s. In the end, we can say that an iPad is very useful in these days.
iPhones, a Popular Trend
By Yuri Nishitani
The most popular trend of technology is iPhones. Today, many people use iPhones all over the world. I think there are many reasons why the men prefer iPhones to cellphones. For example, if I have an iPhone, I don't have to carry a notebook computer because it can connect to the Internet everywhere. It is more light weight and compact than computers. Also, iPhones are very smart. It comes with a built-in camera, dictionary, music player, and more functions. Many people need a more useful one.
The most popular trend of technology is iPhones. Today, many people use iPhones all over the world. I think there are many reasons why the men prefer iPhones to cellphones. For example, if I have an iPhone, I don't have to carry a notebook computer because it can connect to the Internet everywhere. It is more light weight and compact than computers. Also, iPhones are very smart. It comes with a built-in camera, dictionary, music player, and more functions. Many people need a more useful one.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
My Autobiography as a Writer
By Pamela den Ouden
My grandmother, who was born in the late 1870s near Ottawa, Ontario, never learned to read or write. Her passport, issued in 1949, was signed by her with an X because, even at the age of 60 or so, she couldn’t even sign her name. It is hard for me to imagine my life without writing because it has played a large part in my life, academically, professionally, and personally.
As a student and life-long learner, I have used writing to fulfill many assignments. One of my fondest memories from high school is a series of writing assignments from my grade ten English teacher. The situation: we were stranded on a deserted island. The assignments: create a map of our island, write a letter to our family, detail instructions for making a shelter, and write a recipe for making some island dish, among others. These assignments were so interesting and engaging that even after all these years, I can still picture the outline map of my island, drawn in pencil in a lined, green Hilroy notebook.
All graduate students know the agony and the ecstacy of writing a thesis or dissertation. There’s the excitement of the research, of adding to the body of knowledge on a particular and usually narrow subject. Then there’s the agony of the writing, the rewriting, the revising, the scrapping of whole chapters, and the almost starting all over. Finally there it is—the finished product, with the stamp of approval from the powers-that-be.
Even now, I’m still writing as a student, having enrolled in a second Master’s program. Taking notes on the computer as I listen to an online lecture and writing essays and exams are once again part of my study routine. At the end of my course work, yes, there will be another thesis.
My professional writing life was a five-year apprenticeship by fire. I was a writer and then editor of a small weekly newspaper. The staff was small, the workload was large, and the days were long. There was pressure to produce interviews, photos, features, news, questions-on-the-street, and editorials. There was always something to write, revise, and polish.
The writing that’s brought me the greatest satisfaction, however, has been my personal writing, which includes writing to others, poetry, and stories. Over the years, I have written hundreds of letters to family and friends. When I travel, I send postcards and e-mail. When I’m home, I send letters and e-mail, birthday cards, and notes of encouragement. In addition, I express myself in poetry, usually building on a single image or incident or remark. The newest kind of writing that I’ve tackled is the short story. It’s a difficult form, but with practice, I’ll improve.
Writing is a precious ability that we should not take for granted. Our thoughts, actions, and decisions can be recorded for our descendants. If, after I’m gone, my grandchildren want to know about my life, all they will have to do is look through my letters, scrapbooks, diaries, and articles. The written record will reveal my life, my art, and my heart.
My grandmother, who was born in the late 1870s near Ottawa, Ontario, never learned to read or write. Her passport, issued in 1949, was signed by her with an X because, even at the age of 60 or so, she couldn’t even sign her name. It is hard for me to imagine my life without writing because it has played a large part in my life, academically, professionally, and personally.
As a student and life-long learner, I have used writing to fulfill many assignments. One of my fondest memories from high school is a series of writing assignments from my grade ten English teacher. The situation: we were stranded on a deserted island. The assignments: create a map of our island, write a letter to our family, detail instructions for making a shelter, and write a recipe for making some island dish, among others. These assignments were so interesting and engaging that even after all these years, I can still picture the outline map of my island, drawn in pencil in a lined, green Hilroy notebook.
All graduate students know the agony and the ecstacy of writing a thesis or dissertation. There’s the excitement of the research, of adding to the body of knowledge on a particular and usually narrow subject. Then there’s the agony of the writing, the rewriting, the revising, the scrapping of whole chapters, and the almost starting all over. Finally there it is—the finished product, with the stamp of approval from the powers-that-be.
Even now, I’m still writing as a student, having enrolled in a second Master’s program. Taking notes on the computer as I listen to an online lecture and writing essays and exams are once again part of my study routine. At the end of my course work, yes, there will be another thesis.
My professional writing life was a five-year apprenticeship by fire. I was a writer and then editor of a small weekly newspaper. The staff was small, the workload was large, and the days were long. There was pressure to produce interviews, photos, features, news, questions-on-the-street, and editorials. There was always something to write, revise, and polish.
The writing that’s brought me the greatest satisfaction, however, has been my personal writing, which includes writing to others, poetry, and stories. Over the years, I have written hundreds of letters to family and friends. When I travel, I send postcards and e-mail. When I’m home, I send letters and e-mail, birthday cards, and notes of encouragement. In addition, I express myself in poetry, usually building on a single image or incident or remark. The newest kind of writing that I’ve tackled is the short story. It’s a difficult form, but with practice, I’ll improve.
Writing is a precious ability that we should not take for granted. Our thoughts, actions, and decisions can be recorded for our descendants. If, after I’m gone, my grandchildren want to know about my life, all they will have to do is look through my letters, scrapbooks, diaries, and articles. The written record will reveal my life, my art, and my heart.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Book Review - The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane
By Mika Hirano
I’m going to introduce about The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane. The author is Kate DiCamillo. The main character is Edward. He was a rabbit doll who was made almost entirely of china. His owner was Abilene. She loved Edward and treated him with utmost care, but he didn’t like her somehow. One day, her family and Abilene sailed to London with Edward. On the boat, Abilene and Edward met two boys who were so mean. The boys played with Edward and threw him into the ocean. This is the beginning of the journey of Edward.
He met many people who were kind to him. He loved them and they did ooo, but they couldn’t keep him by some reasons. Edward was so sad when they left from him, but he knew something important for him at every saying good-bye. At the end of the story, he was in a doll shop. He met a girl there who really wanted Edward, and so did Edward. The girl told her mother she wanted him. Edward was very surprised and pleased when he looked at the girl’s mother because her mother was Abilene. She noticed he was Edward, so she bought him. Finally, Edward found his way home.
I recommend this book. This is really interesting, sometimes makes me sad, but this story has a happy ending. I like this.
He met many people who were kind to him. He loved them and they did ooo, but they couldn’t keep him by some reasons. Edward was so sad when they left from him, but he knew something important for him at every saying good-bye. At the end of the story, he was in a doll shop. He met a girl there who really wanted Edward, and so did Edward. The girl told her mother she wanted him. Edward was very surprised and pleased when he looked at the girl’s mother because her mother was Abilene. She noticed he was Edward, so she bought him. Finally, Edward found his way home.
I recommend this book. This is really interesting, sometimes makes me sad, but this story has a happy ending. I like this.
Why Do We Work?
By Emika Uetake
I love to introduce Japanese jokes, traditions, and advertisements. We have a very famous TV commercial in Japan. An old couple goes on a trip, and they spend a great time using a credit card. On the final day, they look at each other, and remember the life since they were married. Then the narrator says, “These have a special value that money can’t buy. Why don’t you use a Mastercard for things that money can buy?” We work for money because we can’t live without money. However, if we have to work only for money, we don’t have to have a number of job interviews or try to go to a good university unless we are interested in studying. I think this is a controversial topic, but in my opinion, in addition to earning money, we work for people and work gives meaning to our lives.
Before I came to Canada to study English, I wonder how many people have helped me? First, the university informed about this studying abroad, prepared a lot of papers like an admission paper for Northern Lights College, recommended which insurance is good for me and so on. Furthermore, the airlines offered me flights from Japan to Canada, and my parents prepared things that I need, like money. A lot of people helped me, and a lot of people are helping me right now. On the other hand, I had a part-time job when I was a freshman in university. I promoted new products like juice or snacks, and sometimes an event took place for the products. I helped lots of consumers decide which products are good for them and contributed to sales of the company. According to my “decent” dictionary, “work” means to do your best for others. Someone does his or her best while another person supports him or her. In Japanese kanji, we write “human” like this:
It looks like people who support each other. Even if we do just a simple easy work, it becomes a help for someone.
When I talk with my Japanese friends about differences between Canada and Japan, a big difference is always answered first. Basically, after Canadians finish working, they go back home immediately and spend a lot of time with their families. They sometimes take a long vacation and go on a trip. In a word, Canadian’s thoughts are well-balanced. In contrast, Japanese, especially married men, tend to be so intent on work as to neglect their families. They work all day long too, but after that, they usually go to Japanese pubs with co-workers and bosses to promote easier relationships. Consequently, many Japanese workers forget about their families, and when they retire from their job, they become like “empty boxes.” Some retired Japanese men wear suits and ties, and they go out every day even though they don’t need to get on a too-crowded train or work with scolding bosses because they can’t forget the days when they worked at a company. Then we have another problem. While husbands are working, their wives spend a good time alone after they see their children or husbands off. Therefore, after their husband’s retired and stays at home all day long, the wives can’t endure the situation and sometimes they are divorced. The Japanese are known as busy bees, but we have this kind of problem as a cost. However, this is also a good example about why we work. People need us every time while we are working. We are sometimes scolded by bosses, but it is evidence that there is a person who is worried about us. I think we work because working gives meaning to our lives.
We have to sacrifice spending time doing our hobbies or things which we want to do almost every day. However, we can get other things instead of it like new human relations, experiences, appreciation, and so on. These can’t be gained while we spend a long time doing Internet or being idle at home. In a TED speech (ted.com), a man talked about “the golden circle.” It tells that very few people or organizations know why they do what they do. This doesn’t mean to make a profit. A person who knows why people work, besides for money, can enjoy the person’s job. In addition, somehow, we miss simple things easier than complicated things. A very simple, general activity called working gives us lots of emotions or experiences, but when you find the reason why people work, like for people or having a proof that we are living in them, I think your world about working will be changed 180 degrees around.
I love to introduce Japanese jokes, traditions, and advertisements. We have a very famous TV commercial in Japan. An old couple goes on a trip, and they spend a great time using a credit card. On the final day, they look at each other, and remember the life since they were married. Then the narrator says, “These have a special value that money can’t buy. Why don’t you use a Mastercard for things that money can buy?” We work for money because we can’t live without money. However, if we have to work only for money, we don’t have to have a number of job interviews or try to go to a good university unless we are interested in studying. I think this is a controversial topic, but in my opinion, in addition to earning money, we work for people and work gives meaning to our lives.
Before I came to Canada to study English, I wonder how many people have helped me? First, the university informed about this studying abroad, prepared a lot of papers like an admission paper for Northern Lights College, recommended which insurance is good for me and so on. Furthermore, the airlines offered me flights from Japan to Canada, and my parents prepared things that I need, like money. A lot of people helped me, and a lot of people are helping me right now. On the other hand, I had a part-time job when I was a freshman in university. I promoted new products like juice or snacks, and sometimes an event took place for the products. I helped lots of consumers decide which products are good for them and contributed to sales of the company. According to my “decent” dictionary, “work” means to do your best for others. Someone does his or her best while another person supports him or her. In Japanese kanji, we write “human” like this:
It looks like people who support each other. Even if we do just a simple easy work, it becomes a help for someone.
When I talk with my Japanese friends about differences between Canada and Japan, a big difference is always answered first. Basically, after Canadians finish working, they go back home immediately and spend a lot of time with their families. They sometimes take a long vacation and go on a trip. In a word, Canadian’s thoughts are well-balanced. In contrast, Japanese, especially married men, tend to be so intent on work as to neglect their families. They work all day long too, but after that, they usually go to Japanese pubs with co-workers and bosses to promote easier relationships. Consequently, many Japanese workers forget about their families, and when they retire from their job, they become like “empty boxes.” Some retired Japanese men wear suits and ties, and they go out every day even though they don’t need to get on a too-crowded train or work with scolding bosses because they can’t forget the days when they worked at a company. Then we have another problem. While husbands are working, their wives spend a good time alone after they see their children or husbands off. Therefore, after their husband’s retired and stays at home all day long, the wives can’t endure the situation and sometimes they are divorced. The Japanese are known as busy bees, but we have this kind of problem as a cost. However, this is also a good example about why we work. People need us every time while we are working. We are sometimes scolded by bosses, but it is evidence that there is a person who is worried about us. I think we work because working gives meaning to our lives.
We have to sacrifice spending time doing our hobbies or things which we want to do almost every day. However, we can get other things instead of it like new human relations, experiences, appreciation, and so on. These can’t be gained while we spend a long time doing Internet or being idle at home. In a TED speech (ted.com), a man talked about “the golden circle.” It tells that very few people or organizations know why they do what they do. This doesn’t mean to make a profit. A person who knows why people work, besides for money, can enjoy the person’s job. In addition, somehow, we miss simple things easier than complicated things. A very simple, general activity called working gives us lots of emotions or experiences, but when you find the reason why people work, like for people or having a proof that we are living in them, I think your world about working will be changed 180 degrees around.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Book Review - Anne of Green Gables
By Nahomi Asa
I'm going to talk about Anne of Green Gables. This story is very famous in the world. The heroine in this story is Anne. Anne is very kind and very smart. By mistake, Anne is sent to Prince Edward Island in Canada. She lived in there with Matthew and Marilla. She has red hair and a lot of freckles so everyone amke light of Anne. Especially, Gilbert makes light of her. Gilbert said, "Carrots! Carrots!"
Anne was very angry at Gilbert. Anne was deeply hurt by his words, and she is terribly distressed by her hair color. After a short time, Anne got Gilbert to help, so Anne forgave him.
Anne is very very smart so she can study for Queen's College in two years' time. After that, everyone get along with Anne.
I like Anne and this story, so I recommend this book. Thank you.
I'm going to talk about Anne of Green Gables. This story is very famous in the world. The heroine in this story is Anne. Anne is very kind and very smart. By mistake, Anne is sent to Prince Edward Island in Canada. She lived in there with Matthew and Marilla. She has red hair and a lot of freckles so everyone amke light of Anne. Especially, Gilbert makes light of her. Gilbert said, "Carrots! Carrots!"
Anne was very angry at Gilbert. Anne was deeply hurt by his words, and she is terribly distressed by her hair color. After a short time, Anne got Gilbert to help, so Anne forgave him.
Anne is very very smart so she can study for Queen's College in two years' time. After that, everyone get along with Anne.
I like Anne and this story, so I recommend this book. Thank you.
Book Review - Mr. Bean in Town
By Narumi
I read Mr. Bean in Town. Author is Rowan Atkinson, Richard Curtis, Robin Driscoll and Andrew Clifford.
This is story of how Mr. Bean came across a strange happening. First, he went to restaurant for his birthday alone. Then, he order a steak, but he didn't like it. He didn't want to eat, but he thought that he didn't want people to think that "I'm stupid." So he thought of a good idea but it is not good idea. He tried to hid it in very strange place. For example, into a pan, a violin, woman's bag, and so on.
Next day, he went to the launderette. Then, he lost his trousers. He looked around, and he thought there it is among nearby woman's clothes. So he climbed into the drying machine. Then woman began to put some clothes. And she shut the door.
He shouted through the window in the door. "Help! There's somebody in here."
But she couldn't hear him. Finally, the clothes began to go round and round and Mr. Bean began to go round and round.
This story is very funny!! So I recommend it.
I read Mr. Bean in Town. Author is Rowan Atkinson, Richard Curtis, Robin Driscoll and Andrew Clifford.
This is story of how Mr. Bean came across a strange happening. First, he went to restaurant for his birthday alone. Then, he order a steak, but he didn't like it. He didn't want to eat, but he thought that he didn't want people to think that "I'm stupid." So he thought of a good idea but it is not good idea. He tried to hid it in very strange place. For example, into a pan, a violin, woman's bag, and so on.
Next day, he went to the launderette. Then, he lost his trousers. He looked around, and he thought there it is among nearby woman's clothes. So he climbed into the drying machine. Then woman began to put some clothes. And she shut the door.
He shouted through the window in the door. "Help! There's somebody in here."
But she couldn't hear him. Finally, the clothes began to go round and round and Mr. Bean began to go round and round.
This story is very funny!! So I recommend it.
Book Review - A Midsummer Night's Dream and Other Stories
By Yukari
I read A Midsummer Night's Dream and Other Stories. This book was made by David Foulds. Today, I will tell you about Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
This story is about two rich Italian families. One was named Montague, the other Capulet. These two families had been quarreling with each other for a long time. The quarrel was so bad and they never went into each other's houses.
One day, Romeo, the son of Montague, went to Capulet's party. He saw very beautiful lady then he fall in love with her. But she is daughter of Capulet, Juliet. They have difficult problems but they got married. After that, Romeo's friend was killed by Juliet's cousin. Next, Romeo killed Juliet's cousin. He must leave the city. Juliet must marry Count Paris. She doesn't want to marry with Paris. She asked priest for his help and advice.
She drinks what Friar Lawrence gives her. It is dangerous medicine. She looks like dead. Romeo hears that Juliet has died. So, Romeo kills himself. After Juliet wake up. She saw Romeo lying dead at Juliet's side. Juliet kills herself, also.
Friar Lawrence sadly told everyone the whole story. And he told them that if they had ended their quarrel long ago, this terrible thing might not have happened. So at last, the two sad old men turned to one another and promised that they would be friends, and at peace for the rest of their lives.
I read A Midsummer Night's Dream and Other Stories. This book was made by David Foulds. Today, I will tell you about Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
This story is about two rich Italian families. One was named Montague, the other Capulet. These two families had been quarreling with each other for a long time. The quarrel was so bad and they never went into each other's houses.
One day, Romeo, the son of Montague, went to Capulet's party. He saw very beautiful lady then he fall in love with her. But she is daughter of Capulet, Juliet. They have difficult problems but they got married. After that, Romeo's friend was killed by Juliet's cousin. Next, Romeo killed Juliet's cousin. He must leave the city. Juliet must marry Count Paris. She doesn't want to marry with Paris. She asked priest for his help and advice.
She drinks what Friar Lawrence gives her. It is dangerous medicine. She looks like dead. Romeo hears that Juliet has died. So, Romeo kills himself. After Juliet wake up. She saw Romeo lying dead at Juliet's side. Juliet kills herself, also.
Friar Lawrence sadly told everyone the whole story. And he told them that if they had ended their quarrel long ago, this terrible thing might not have happened. So at last, the two sad old men turned to one another and promised that they would be friends, and at peace for the rest of their lives.
Book Review - Strawberry and the Sensations
By Erika
I read Strawberry and the Sensations. The author is Peter Viney. This story is about concert of rock band. Main character name is Cyndi. The concert day, she received paper. On the paper was written, "We must kill her. Stop the show or she dies."
It is very scary. But she did concert. The man who wrote the paper shot a gun on the way. Quickly she threw her microphone at him. There was a screaming noise from the microphone and an explosion. Something hit Cyndi in the face and she fell down. But she has begun to sing again. She is a great person.
This story is so-so.
I read Strawberry and the Sensations. The author is Peter Viney. This story is about concert of rock band. Main character name is Cyndi. The concert day, she received paper. On the paper was written, "We must kill her. Stop the show or she dies."
It is very scary. But she did concert. The man who wrote the paper shot a gun on the way. Quickly she threw her microphone at him. There was a screaming noise from the microphone and an explosion. Something hit Cyndi in the face and she fell down. But she has begun to sing again. She is a great person.
This story is so-so.
Book Review - Rich Man, Poor Man
By Maho Moriki
I read Rich Man, Poor Man. The story's main person is old man. The old man is poor man. One day, the postman brought him a letter from his son, Saul. In the letter was written, "I have a job in a factory. The work is very hard. But pay is good. I'm sending you a money order." Money is one hundred pounds.
The next morning he went to change the money order. But he couldn't change his money order. But he met a person. A person's name is Mr. Sheth. Mr. Sheth said, "I hope I can help you. But this money order is not worth one hundred pounds. Give me your money order."
The old man gave it. Mr. Sheth said, "I'm going to change this money order for you. He caught the money, but it was ten poinds. He felt old and poor again. I think he hold the bag. The first part of the story is exciting, but end of the story is boring. I don't recommend.
I read Rich Man, Poor Man. The story's main person is old man. The old man is poor man. One day, the postman brought him a letter from his son, Saul. In the letter was written, "I have a job in a factory. The work is very hard. But pay is good. I'm sending you a money order." Money is one hundred pounds.
The next morning he went to change the money order. But he couldn't change his money order. But he met a person. A person's name is Mr. Sheth. Mr. Sheth said, "I hope I can help you. But this money order is not worth one hundred pounds. Give me your money order."
The old man gave it. Mr. Sheth said, "I'm going to change this money order for you. He caught the money, but it was ten poinds. He felt old and poor again. I think he hold the bag. The first part of the story is exciting, but end of the story is boring. I don't recommend.
Opinion - Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
By Mika Hirano
I think driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious crime because it has a cause of many accidents. In my opinion, the people who drank alcohol much the first time should pay a fine of $500 or more. When they did it the second time, they should lose their licence. Do you know one of Japanese proverbs? I'd like to tell you one of them. The one is that it'll happen three times if it happened two times. It means similar to the proverb which is "When it rains, it pours." When people failed in something, they learn something good for them. If they don't find out the one, they would do it again and again.
I think driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious crime because it has a cause of many accidents. In my opinion, the people who drank alcohol much the first time should pay a fine of $500 or more. When they did it the second time, they should lose their licence. Do you know one of Japanese proverbs? I'd like to tell you one of them. The one is that it'll happen three times if it happened two times. It means similar to the proverb which is "When it rains, it pours." When people failed in something, they learn something good for them. If they don't find out the one, they would do it again and again.
Book Review - The Lost Umbrella of Kim Chu
By Mao Nagahiro
The title of the book is The Lost Umbrella of Kim Chu. Writer’s name is Eleanor Estes. The main character is Kim Chu.
This story is about an important umbrella. The umbrella is big and black. It belongs to Kim’s father. There is something special about it. One day, it is very rainy and Kim takes the umbrella to the library. Then the umbrella disappears. In the story, Kim goes to find the umbrella.
The title of the book is The Lost Umbrella of Kim Chu. Writer’s name is Eleanor Estes. The main character is Kim Chu.
This story is about an important umbrella. The umbrella is big and black. It belongs to Kim’s father. There is something special about it. One day, it is very rainy and Kim takes the umbrella to the library. Then the umbrella disappears. In the story, Kim goes to find the umbrella.
Monday, March 5, 2012
Book Review: The Woman in Black
By Hozumi Nishi
This book’s title is The Woman in Black. The author is Susan Hill. This story’s main character is Kipps. This story is about this young man, Kipps, who went to a house for his work and met a woman’s ghost in the house.
I like this book because it was easy to understand this book’s story. But I was a little bored because I could guess the end of this story.
This book’s title is The Woman in Black. The author is Susan Hill. This story’s main character is Kipps. This story is about this young man, Kipps, who went to a house for his work and met a woman’s ghost in the house.
I like this book because it was easy to understand this book’s story. But I was a little bored because I could guess the end of this story.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Book Review - One-Way Ticket
Sayaka
The title is One-Way Ticket. The author is Jennifer Bassett. There are three short stories in this book. All stories are in the train. I’ll introduce one story. This is the third story. It is the best story in this book.
There is the man. He likes the train. His name is Mr Harris. This is a night train. He saw a man and woman. They are brother and sister. Her brother stole a diamond necklace. She was angry. But he didn’t listen. Suddenly she took a knife and stabbed him. Mr. Harris called a guard quickly. But there was no young man and woman when Mr. Harris came back to the carriage. This is a psychic phenomenon. There were dead 80 years ago. They were ghosts.
The title is One-Way Ticket. The author is Jennifer Bassett. There are three short stories in this book. All stories are in the train. I’ll introduce one story. This is the third story. It is the best story in this book.
There is the man. He likes the train. His name is Mr Harris. This is a night train. He saw a man and woman. They are brother and sister. Her brother stole a diamond necklace. She was angry. But he didn’t listen. Suddenly she took a knife and stabbed him. Mr. Harris called a guard quickly. But there was no young man and woman when Mr. Harris came back to the carriage. This is a psychic phenomenon. There were dead 80 years ago. They were ghosts.
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