Sports Day · Worksheet C1
Read the passage and answer the questions. (CEFR B1–B2)
1When Japan created Health and Sports Day in 1966, the Japanese name used the word taiiku, which is usually translated as physical education. The word carries a long history. In 1885, Mori Arinori, Japan's first Minister of Education, encouraged group exercises in schools, and sports meets became a public display of discipline and teamwork. For many people, taiiku still suggests lessons, rules, and a teacher with a whistle.
2The English word sport has a very different background. It comes from disport, an old word meaning to amuse yourself, and it goes back to a Latin idea of carrying your mind away from work. When the holiday was renamed Sports Day in 2020, its official purpose was also rewritten. The law now speaks of enjoying sports and building a spirit of respect for others, rather than simply strengthening the body.
3Some critics say a new name changes nothing if school sports remain strict and competitive. Others argue that words shape expectations, and that a holiday about joy and respect could slowly change how people think about exercise. Either way, the debate shows that even a holiday name can carry a whole philosophy of the body.
What is the main idea of the passage?
Who encouraged group exercises in schools in 1885?
According to the passage, what does the law now focus on?
What can be inferred about the critics mentioned in paragraph 3?
In paragraph 1, the word "discipline" is closest in meaning to
Why does the writer explain where the English word sport comes from?
Sports Day · Worksheet C2
Match the words with the definitions. Then rewrite and summarize.
1. “For many people, taiiku still suggests lessons, rules, and a teacher with a whistle.”
Hint: Start with "When many people hear the word taiiku" and use "think of".2. “The law now speaks of enjoying sports and building a spirit of respect for others, rather than simply strengthening the body.”
Hint: Use "is not only about" and "but also about".3. “Others argue that words shape expectations, and that a holiday about joy and respect could slowly change how people think about exercise.”
Hint: Start with "Other people believe" and use "over time".Summarize the passage in about 50 words.
Sports Day · Worksheet C3
Prepare for a debate. Then write your opinion (100–150 words).
Add your own reason:
Add your own reason:
| Opinion | I believe / I think that … |
|---|---|
| Reason 1 | First, … For example, … |
| Reason 2 | Second, … In fact, … |
| Counter | Some people say … However, … |
| Conclusion | In conclusion, … |