©REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon
Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- If given the chance to influence the Olympics, what new sport or activity would you propose and why?
- What factors might influence a person to explore a completely new physical discipline later in life?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- seize /seez/
- exclusive /ik-SKLOO-siv/
- energize /EN-er-jahyz/
- resident /REZ-i-duhnt/
- forthcoming /FAWRTH-KUHM-ing/
[verb] – to take something quickly and keep or hold it
After years of contemplation, she decided to seize the chance to travel around the world.
[adjective] – restricted or limited to a select group of people
The boutique offers exclusive designer clothing that is not available anywhere else in the city.
[verb] – to make someone feel energetic or eager
The motivational speaker’s inspiring words helped energize the audience for the challenges ahead.
[noun] – a person who lives in a particular place or location
The apartment complex is popular among long-term residents who enjoy its convenient location.
[adjective] – about to happen or appear; upcoming
The company’s forthcoming product launch is highly anticipated by industry analysts.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Renowned for her skills in surfing and traditional Japanese dance, 74-year-old Saruwaka Kiyoshie has recently developed a passion for breakdancing, sparked by its inclusion in the 2024 Paris Games. She remembers watching young breakdancers near railroad tracks and imagining herself joining them when she was younger. Starting her journey with Nihonbuyo dance at age five, Saruwaka never expected to embrace breakdancing in her later years. Yet, drawn to its unique appeal and excitement, she eagerly seized this unexpected opportunity.
Saruwaka is now an enthusiastic member of Ara Style Senior, an exclusive club in Japan where elderly citizens practice breakdancing. This innovative club was initiated by 71-year-old Tokyo official Reiko Maruyama, who aimed to energize the community through engaging physical activities. Maruyama, together with former national breaking champion Yusuke Arai, introduced breakdancing to older residents, inspired by its forthcoming Olympic debut. Arai, known for mentoring talents like B-Boy Shigekix, believes this initiative could change views on age and fitness. Maruyama hopes to make breakdancing popular beyond Edogawa ward. Ara Style Senior, with about 15 members, recently performed at a local festival, receiving enthusiastic applause. Although they do not perform Olympic-level acrobatics, members like 69-year-old Hitomi Oda enjoy the physical benefits of simpler moves. For Saruwaka, breakdancing is a refreshing break from her duties at the Saruwaka school of classical dance. She sees it as essential for maintaining her fitness and expressed optimism about continuing this passion into the future.
Saruwaka is now an enthusiastic member of Ara Style Senior, an exclusive club in Japan where elderly citizens practice breakdancing. This innovative club was initiated by 71-year-old Tokyo official Reiko Maruyama, who aimed to energize the community through engaging physical activities. Maruyama, together with former national breaking champion Yusuke Arai, introduced breakdancing to older residents, inspired by its forthcoming Olympic debut. Arai, known for mentoring talents like B-Boy Shigekix, believes this initiative could change views on age and fitness. Maruyama hopes to make breakdancing popular beyond Edogawa ward. Ara Style Senior, with about 15 members, recently performed at a local festival, receiving enthusiastic applause. Although they do not perform Olympic-level acrobatics, members like 69-year-old Hitomi Oda enjoy the physical benefits of simpler moves. For Saruwaka, breakdancing is a refreshing break from her duties at the Saruwaka school of classical dance. She sees it as essential for maintaining her fitness and expressed optimism about continuing this passion into the future.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What sparked Saruwaka Kiyoshie’s interest in breakdancing?
- Who initiated the Ara Style Senior Club, and what was their goal?
- According to Yusuke Arai, what impact could breakdancing have on perceptions of age and fitness?
- Where did Ara Style Senior recently perform, and how was their performance received?
- How does Saruwaka Kiyoshie view breakdancing in relation to her classical dance responsibilities?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Can you imagine yourself participating in a sport or activity traditionally associated with younger people as you grow older, similar to Saruwaka’s involvement in breakdancing? If yes, which one and why? If not, is there another activity you imagine yourself enjoying as you age?
- How do you think initiatives like Ara Style Senior impact the perception of aging and physical fitness in society?
- Do you agree that having hobbies and interests outside of work or daily responsibilities is important for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life?
- How might participating in activities traditionally associated with younger generations, like breakdancing, challenge stereotypes about aging?
- How can communities encourage and support older adults to explore new interests and hobbies, similar to what Maruyama and Arai did with breakdancing in Edogawa ward?