Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- fondness /FOND-nis/
- portray /pawr-TREY/
- melodic /muh-LOD-ik/
- intricate /IN-tri-kit/
- metamorphosis /met-uh-MAWR-fuh-sis/
[noun] – a strong liking for something or someone
She has a fondness for painting nature scenes in her free time.
[verb] – to describe or show someone or something in a certain way
The book portrayed the city as full of life and color.
[adjective] – having a pleasant and musical sound
We listened to the melodic singing of the choir during the festival.
[adjective] – having many small and complicated details
The artist created an intricate design on the vase.
[noun] – a process in which something changes completely into something else
The tadpole’s metamorphosis into a frog was amazing to watch.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Japan’s fondness for insects extends beyond scientific study, forming a distinctive cultural tradition that dates back to the Heian era and continues to thrive in modern times. From classic works like The Tale of Genji to modern manga and anime such as Mushishi, insects have been portrayed as enduring symbols of beauty and fascination. Fireflies illuminating gardens and the melodic chirping of caged crickets are common sights, with specialized jelly-based pet food and even rare species available for purchase, some costing up to 20,000 yen ($133). Insects are not merely objects for entomologists; they are admired companions, with public figures openly sharing their enthusiasm for bug-hunting. According to Kyushu University professor Munetoshi Maruyama, the intricate shapes and forms of insects reveal new discoveries to those who study them. Maruyama, who has identified 250 new species, views this as a modest contribution considering the more than 1.2 million known insect species worldwide.
Japan’s encouragement of insect interaction begins in childhood through books, educational programs, and seasonal bug-hunting activities. Convenience stores even sell insect nets, reinforcing accessibility to this pastime. Observing metamorphosis, such as a larva’s transformation into a butterfly, fosters scientific curiosity and understanding of life cycles. Insects also serve as indicators for environmental studies, including climate change, while social species like bees and ants exhibit remarkable communication and navigational skills. In ecological terms, insects play an essential role by facilitating pollination and supporting the stability of food chains. The nation’s fascination was showcased at “The Great Insect Exhibition” in Tokyo’s Sky Tree Tower, where children and adults could observe and touch beetles, including the Hercules beetle with its khaki-toned shell and soft-textured wings. Organizers highlighted the cognitive benefits of such tactile experiences, underscoring the educational and emotional value of Japan’s enduring relationship with insects.
Japan’s encouragement of insect interaction begins in childhood through books, educational programs, and seasonal bug-hunting activities. Convenience stores even sell insect nets, reinforcing accessibility to this pastime. Observing metamorphosis, such as a larva’s transformation into a butterfly, fosters scientific curiosity and understanding of life cycles. Insects also serve as indicators for environmental studies, including climate change, while social species like bees and ants exhibit remarkable communication and navigational skills. In ecological terms, insects play an essential role by facilitating pollination and supporting the stability of food chains. The nation’s fascination was showcased at “The Great Insect Exhibition” in Tokyo’s Sky Tree Tower, where children and adults could observe and touch beetles, including the Hercules beetle with its khaki-toned shell and soft-textured wings. Organizers highlighted the cognitive benefits of such tactile experiences, underscoring the educational and emotional value of Japan’s enduring relationship with insects.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever kept an insect as a pet? If yes, what kind of insect was it, and how did you take care of it? If not, what insect would you choose if you could keep one as a pet?
- Have you ever joined an event or activity where you could see many different insects? If yes, what was the most interesting insect you saw? If not, would you like to join such an event in the future? Why or why not?
- Do you agree that children should be encouraged to explore and study insects?
- Why do you think insects are an important part of nature?
- How can people balance enjoying insects as pets and protecting them in the wild?
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.
- scientific study
- cultural tradition
- modern time
- manga
- symbol