Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- multiple /MUHL-tuh-puhl/
- yeast /yeest/
- ferment /fer-MENT/
- cocktail /KOK-teyl/
- solemn /SOL-uhm/
[adjective] – more than one; several
The company received multiple applications for the job opening.
[noun] – a type of fungus that is used in making alcoholic drinks such as beer and wine, and for making bread swell and become light
Yeast is essential in the brewing process to create alcoholic beverages.
[verb] – to undergo chemical change due to the action of yeast or bacteria, often in the production of alcohol or other fermented products
The juice will ferment over several days to become wine.
[noun] – a drink, usually an alcoholic one, made by mixing two or more drinks together
At the party, they served a variety of cocktails to the guests.
[adjective] – serious and without any humour
The funeral service was a solemn occasion.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
The ancient art of sake brewing is set to receive worldwide recognition, as UNESCO is about to name it an Intangible Cultural Heritage. This brewing technique, which dates back to the samurai era, uses a special three-step fermentation process called “San-Dan-Jikomi.” This method allows multiple fermentations to happen at the same time in one container. The recognition comes after UNESCO recognized Japanese cuisine, or “washoku,” as cultural heritage in 2013. The sake brewing process uses rice, koji mold, yeast starter, and water. It takes several weeks to ferment, producing sake, a drink that is important in Japan’s cultural ceremonies and celebrations. This will be Japan’s 23rd entry on UNESCO’s heritage list, highlighting the importance of preserving traditional customs.
Sake brewers face challenges, such as unusually warm weather affecting rice harvests and increasing costs. Declining local demand over the years has also made things difficult, as younger people prefer cocktails and other drinks. However, experts believe the UNESCO recognition could lead to a rise in international interest, especially in countries where Japanese cuisine is popular. Koichi Maesako, a chief brewer at Ishikawa Brewery, is hopeful, pointing out the increase in sake exports. Industry experts believe this recognition will boost both cultural pride and economic opportunities. As sake gains more appreciation worldwide, it will continue to hold special meaning in Japan, representing both happy and solemn moments. The official announcement will take place at a UNESCO committee session in Paraguay, bringing hope for a bright future for this important craft.
Sake brewers face challenges, such as unusually warm weather affecting rice harvests and increasing costs. Declining local demand over the years has also made things difficult, as younger people prefer cocktails and other drinks. However, experts believe the UNESCO recognition could lead to a rise in international interest, especially in countries where Japanese cuisine is popular. Koichi Maesako, a chief brewer at Ishikawa Brewery, is hopeful, pointing out the increase in sake exports. Industry experts believe this recognition will boost both cultural pride and economic opportunities. As sake gains more appreciation worldwide, it will continue to hold special meaning in Japan, representing both happy and solemn moments. The official announcement will take place at a UNESCO committee session in Paraguay, bringing hope for a bright future for this important craft.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever participated in a cultural ceremony or celebration where a special drink was served? If so, what was the drink, and what was the occasion? If not, what type of drink do you think would be served at a cultural ceremony?
- Have you ever tried brewing something at home, like tea or coffee? If yes, what was the process like for you? If not, would you like to try brewing something yourself?
- Do you agree that UNESCO’s recognition of sake brewing could increase international interest in Japanese culture?
- How do you think the recognition of sake brewing as a UNESCO heritage will impact Japan’s cultural pride?
- Why do you think it is important to preserve traditional customs, like sake brewing, in a rapidly changing world?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- UNESCO
- cuisine
- harvest
- traditional custom
- worldwide recognition