【WPMの測定手順】
1. 読む前に設問を確認する
2. 時計(ストップウォッチ)を見ながら、英文を最初から最後まで読み、かかった秒数を記録する
3. 設問に解答する
4. 答え合わせをして正解数を確認する
以下の計算式でWPMを算出する
WPM = 語数 ÷ 読むのにかかった秒数 × 60 × 正解数 ÷ 設問数
※読んだ内容の理解を測定せずただ英文を読むスピードをチェックしたい場合は、WPM = 語数 ÷ 読むのにかかった秒数 × 60 まででOK。
The Perfect Walk: Nature’s Path to Better Health
Walking is more than a simple way to keep fit. Recent research shows that where, how, and even what you smell while walking can multiply its benefits. Twenty minutes of strolling through green space already lowers stress hormones, yet choosing the right route adds extra rewards.
Forests rich in pine, spruce, or other fragrant trees release pinene, a sweet-smelling chemical that reduces inflammation, drops blood pressure, and boosts natural killer cells that fight infection and cancer. Beaches offer different “aeronutrients”: sea spray filled with plant and algae molecules, plus iodine gas from seaweed. Breathing these particles can help genes defend against tumours and support healthy metabolism.
Landscape matters too. Mid-fractal scenery—open land with scattered trees—calms the brain, raising alpha and beta waves linked with focus and peace. Hilly coastlines naturally create interval training, improving muscle strength and helping control type-2 diabetes without extra effort. Even city walks are useful when the streets have interesting sights or history, but farmland and wildlife trails generally win for mood and recovery.
Smell variety is another secret. Scientists find that experiencing many pleasant odours strengthens memory pathways and may protect against dementia, so “stop and smell the roses” works.
Short daily walks refresh the mind, while longer hikes, such as multi-day forest treks, can raise immune power for a week and produce a flow state that feels like meditation. Whatever path you pick, slow down, breathe deeply, and let nature turn an ordinary walk into medicine. (250 words)
☆Answer the questions☆
(1) Which chemical released by pine trees helps reduce inflammation?
a) Iodine b) Pinene c) Serotonin d) Beta wave
(2) What type of landscape is said to be especially calming?
a) Dense jungle b) Mid-fractal open land with scattered trees c) Crowded city streets d) Desert dunes
(3) How long of a green walk is enough to start lowering stress hormones?
a) 5 minutes b) 10 minutes c) 20 minutes d) 60 minutes
(4) What extra benefit can hilly coastlines give walkers?
a) Constant sunlight exposure b) Natural interval training c) Free iodine supplements d) Unlimited water supply

【Answer】