Mobile Phone Security, Disregarded by Many

【Unlocking Word Meanings】
　今日の単語・フレーズ

Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

1. unmindful (adj.) [uhn-mahynd-fuhl] – not caring or giving enough attention to something

Example: He is unmindful of the bad effects of his absences at work. 

2. unauthorized (adj.) [aw-thuh-rahyzd] – not having an official permission

Example: Unauthorized people are not allowed to enter some parts of the hospital.

   

3. confidential (adj.) [kon-fi-den-shuhl] – something that is only for some people’s access or something not intended for everyone to see or find out

Example: Some legal documents are kept confidential. 

4. fraud (n.) [frawd] –doing something that is dishonest or intended to trick or cheat another person

Example: He was a victim of fraud because someone used his credit card to make a purchase online without his knowledge.

【Article】
　ニュース記事

Read the text below.

According to a recent survey, Americans are unmindful of setting security functions on their mobile phones.

Very few US consumers use phone-locking passwords and some even make use of the same passwords they use on their desktop computers.

Most of the respondents of the survey use their mobile phones to purchase, make payments or do mobile banking. Almost 84 % of consumers use the same phone for both personal and business transactions. This doubles the risk of losing personal data and unauthorized access to confidential information in case the phone gets lost or stolen.

It is likewise risky that 66% of the respondents said that they store personal information such as email address, photos, videos, personal dates, etc. on their mobile phones, while 23% said they save passwords on their phones.

Other risks for unprotected mobile use also includes the possibility of acquiring viruses and mobile payment frauds for those who shop and pay bills using their phone.

Despite all the risks, only 29% percent have considered downloading anti-virus applications and less than fifty percent of the respondents use keypad locks and passwords on their mobile phones.  

【Viewpoint Discussion】
　ディスカッションテーマ

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor. 

Discussion A

·         Why do you think most Americans leave their phones unprotected? 

·         It is easy to download or set security applications in your mobile phone?

Discussion B

·         What do you use your mobile phones for?

·         What are some advantages and disadvantages of mobile phones nowadays?

Music and Laughter Might Help Decrease Blood Pressure

Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

1. conduct (v.) [n. kon-duhkt; v. kuhn-duhkt] – to do or to lead something

Example: The manager of the company conducts leadership training every two months. 

2. therapy (n.) [ther-uh-pee] – method or process of healing or treatment

Example: Massage is one kind of relaxation therapy.

   

3. cardiology (n.) [kahr-dee-ol-uh-jee] – the branch of medical science that studies the heart and its diseases

Example: The department of cardiology published a report on ways to prevent heart attacks.

4. replacement (n.) [ri-pleys-muhnt] – a thing in exchange of something

Example: I had to find a replacement for the book I lost.

Article

Read the text below.

Listening to music and laughing can lower a person's blood pressure, according to a research presented in Atlanta, USA last Friday.

The said study was conducted by Japanese researchers from Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine headed by Eri Eguchi.

The researchers randomly picked 90 males and females ages 40 to 74. One group was given a music therapy, in which they listened to their choice of Japanese songs from classic, jazz, or pop. They were also given a laughing therapy, in which they listened to humorous Japanese stories. The members of this group were likewise encouraged to keep listening to music while at home. Meanwhile, the second group was given neither of the therapies. Sessions were done every other week for three months.

After three months, the first group who has received the music and laughter therapies lowered their blood pressure by five to six points while the second group did not show any change.

It is not yet clear how listening to music and laughing improve blood pressure. But Eguchi said that relaxation and therapies may decrease cortisol, a stress hormone that can add to high blood pressure. 

A similar study was done previously by the group of Michael Miller, M.D., director of preventive cardiology at the University of Maryland Medical Center, in Baltimore. In their said research it showed "that both laughing and listening to upbeat music improved the function of the inner lining of blood vessels." But he also added that listening to music and laughing alone aren't enough to treat high blood pressure. Although these are more natural ways to improve one's health, he does not recommend it as a replacement for medication.

Viewpoint Discussion

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor. 

Discussion A 

·         Do you like listening to music or watching comedy shows?

·         What activities do you usually do to relieve stress?

Discussion B

·         Do you take medicines when you get sick?

·         What do you think about natural ways of healing?

More Summer Jobs for the Unemployed in US

Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

1. temporary (adj.) [tem-puh-rer-ee] – not permanent or long-term

Example: His absence at work is only temporary; he will be back next week.

2. encourage (v.) [en-kur-ij, -kuhr-] – to inspire or to support somebody

Example: The teachers encourage their students to do well in the examinations.

   

3. compensation (n.) [kom-puhn-sey-shuhn] – a payment given to a person in exchange for his services

Example: The company provides high compensation to its employees.

4. allot (v.) [uh-lot] – to provide or set aside a portion of something for a specific purpose

Example: The athlete allots three hours a day to exercise.

Article

Read the text below.

This summer will be better for people who are seeking temporary jobs in the US. According to a survey by SnagAJob.com, 55% of company managers will hire employees for summer jobs, while 10% of those managers will hire 6% more employees than last summer.  

Furthermore, the survey revealed that managers are willing to pay successful job seekers higher compensation than before—from $10.20 to $10.90 an hour.

However, job seekers are encouraged to apply immediately because most of the managers would stop hiring by April.

Tough competition also awaits new job seekers as managers plan to re- most of the employees who had worked for them. Only 35% will be allotted for new employees.

To get ahead of the competition, job seekers are advised to have a positive attitude, an ability to follow schedule and a previous work experience.   

  

Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor. 

Discussion A

·         What are the benefits of having a temporary job, such as a summer job?

·         Why are previous experiences from past jobs important in getting hired in the future?

Discussion B

·         What preparations can a job seeker do to make sure that he gets hired for a job?

·         What are the possible reasons why getting a job is a lot harder today than in the past?

Skype Helps Cancer Victim Teach

Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

1. chemotherapy (n.) [kee-moh-ther-uh-pee, kem-oh-] – a treatment that uses chemicals which kill cancer cells

Example: Breast cancer patients go through chemotherapy.

2. gesture (n.) [jes-cher] – the movement of head, face, hands or body in order to express an idea or send a message

Example: His gesture means that I should be quiet.

3. malfunction (n.) [mal-fuhngk-shuhn] – to not work properly; to break down

Example: The computer with hardware malfunctions was finally changed. 

4. engage (v.) [en-geyj] – to catch the attention of someone

Example: The exciting movie engages many teenagers.

Article

Read the text below.

A high school teacher in UK continues to teach his class every day despite the pain he’s suffering from cancer.

James Kelly, an English teacher from Mount St. Joseph High School, conducts his class using the free internet program called Skype. Weakened by regular chemotherapy, Kelly no longer has the energy to teach inside a classroom. Skype enables him to teach virtually through a screen where his students can listen to his voice and watch his gestures.

His students found it unusual at first, but eventually, they adapted to this new way of teaching.

To make sure that his students behave properly, Kelly asked the help of his assistant to monitor the students while inside the classroom. Fortunately, Kelly’s students cooperate with him well.

There are times when there would be computer right in the middle of the class and whenever this happens the chairman of the school’s computer department stands by to fix the problem.

Kelly says that Skype is as good as being inside the classroom. Even if he is not physically present, he is able to engage his students so they can make progress in class. However, Kelly still thinks it is important to be inside the classroom every once in a while because it is still the best place where he can make a real connection with his students.

Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor. 

Discussion A

·         Do you think students can learn better if the teacher is around?

·         How do you think can teachers engage their students in class even if they are not around?

Discussion B 

·         Do you think it is possible to replace human teachers with a machine? Why or why not?

·         What can human teachers do that computers cannot?

Artist Helps Coffee Shops Save the Environment

Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

1. hospitality industry (n.) [hos-pi-tal-i-tee][in-duh-stree] – a type of business that offers services like food, entertainment, accommodation or leisure activities

Example: Hospitality industry is growing rapidly as people earn bigger income.

2. disposable (adj.) [dih-spoh-zuh-buhl] – something that can be thrown away after using

Example: Disposable cups are used when you want to eat outside the restaurant.

   

3. compost bin (n.) [kom-pohst][bin] – a container used to hold materials that decay or rot

Example: People can reduce waste by throwing leftover food in compost bins.

4. takeaway (adj.) [teyk-uh-wey] – describes food, drinks, or utensils that can be taken out of the restaurant

Example: Most people who are in a hurry buy takeaway food.

Article

Read the text below.

A local artist from Sydney, Australia has started an idea that helps coffee shops save both money and the environment.

Amelia Tovey used her creativity in thinking of a way to help hospitality industries like coffee shops become environment-friendly and cost efficient at the same time.

Concerned with the large amounts of garbage produced from disposable cups, Amelia sought answers on the Internet. However, she could not find any website that provided any solution.

She then decided to experiment using simple and cheap materials. Amelia and her team from the organization “Leave No Trace” placed compost bins in one coffee shop in Sydney. They also provided the shop with takeaway cups and containers made from natural materials.  

As a result of their experiment, the coffee shop was able to save money by 30% as it cut down the number of times that trucks took out their garbage. The waste was also reduced to significant amounts. 

Amelia is eager to receive other environment-friendly ideas from her community. She also hopes to share this idea to other food stores so they can help save the environment and cut on costs as well.

Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor. 

Discussion A

·         How do disposable materials cause danger in the environment?

·         What other alternatives do restaurants have in order to save money and the environment?

Discussion B 

·         What simple ways can you do to help save the environment?

·         How can you challenge people to do simple things in order to protect the environment?

Matchmaking Might Fasten Reunification of the Koreas

Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

1. defector (n.) [dih-fek-ter] – someone who leaves one's country to join or live in the opposing country

Example: There is a growing number of North Korean defectors living in South Korea.   

2. matchmaking (adj.) [mach-mey-ker] – an act of arranging marriages by introducing  a man and a woman to each other

Example: She met her husband through an online matchmaking service.

   

3. bachelor (n.) [bach-uh-ler, bach-ler] – an unmarried man

Example: I have two uncles who are bachelors.

4. reunify (v.) [yoo-nuh-fahy] – to bring something together again

Example: She was trying to reunify with her high school friends through Facebook.

Additional Question/s: Do you still keep in touch and meet up with your friends from high school/university? Why or why not?

Article

Read the text below.

Choi Young-Hee , a North Korean who is now living in South Korea as a defector, built a unique  ‘matchmaking’ business five years ago that pairs up South Korean men with North Korean women.

She got the business idea from the old Korean saying that South Korean men are good looking and North Korean women are beautiful.

Through her experience in matchmaking, she found that South Korean men prefer the more traditional North Korean women. While North Korean women long for acceptance and stability  which South Korean men can offer.

Initially, she would take note of the height, education, and work status of qualified  South Korean bachelors. Then she would match these men in her database of North Korean women making sure that their personality likewise fits.

Young-Hee believes that by doing this the two Korean nations, North and South, might soon reunify.  She feels that with every successful match there is a deeper understanding and appreciation between the people of the two nations despite the political differences and the unending conflicts. 

Among almost 500 couples that she has wed only three had gone unsuccessful.

Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor. 

Discussion A

·         What do you think are other ways of meeting people from other countries?

·         Have you ever thought of marrying somebody from another country?

Discussion B

·         What are the common reasons for conflicts between countries?

·         How do you think can we avoid conflicts between countries?

New Trend of Bicycle Cafés in US

Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

1. cycling (n.) [sahy-kling] – the act or sport of riding or traveling by bicycle, motorcycle, etc.    

Example: Cycling in countries like China and Japan can be a wonderful experience.

Additional Info: The first actual bicycle was developed in 1817 by Karl Drais. Cycling is a good aerobic activity which is also good for the lungs, and helps the heart.

2. draw (v.) [draw] – to attract somebody or something

Example: Television advertisements should we well thought of to draw attention.
Additional Question: What TV advertisement sticks most to your mind?  Why?

3. branded (adj.) [bran-did] – identifiable as being the product of a particular manufacturer or marketing company

Example: Celebrities use mostly branded products.

Additional Info: In Fashion some of the most expensive brands are Gucci [goo-chee], Louis Vuitton[loo-ee v-uh-tahn], Chanel[shu-nell], Burberry[BUR-bur-ee], Fendi, Christian Dior[fEHn- dee], Prada, Christian Louboutin[l oo - b oo - T AE n], Versace[vur-sa-chee], Hermes. In general the top three most expensive brands are Tiffany (jewelry), Rolls Royce (cars), Rolex (watch).

   

4. influence (n.) [in-floo-uhns] – the power to affect a person, thing, or course of events

Example: My friends are my greatest music influence.
Additional Question: Who do you think is your greatest influence? Why?

Article

Read the text below.

Gene Oberpriller, a former mountain bike racer who is now a bicycle café owner, said that coffee is part of the cycling culture. It is common for cyclists to have coffee before a ride as it gives them more energy.  

Bicycle shops used to be a usual place for coffee among bicycle riders and the emergence of “specialty cafés” is definitely something new, Oberpriller added.  

Biking “specialty cafés” are part of the growing cycling culture in “biking-friendly cities” in the United States.

These bicycle cafés try to think of creative ways to draw customers. Some have bike-inspired artwork displays. Others sell high quality bicycle parts and branded clothing for bikers. Most provide an opportunity for cyclists to repair their bicycles, and pump air.

European biking and café cultures are said to have been great influences for American bicycle cafes.

David V. Herlihy, author of the books about the history of cycling, said that traditional shops where European cyclists meet up for coffee are very common.

Follow-up (optional)
Use the question below to check if your student understood the article.

What is the article all about?


Viewpoint Discussion

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor. 

Discussion A

·         Are there biking cafes in your city/town?

·         Have you ever visited one?

Discussion B

·         What do you think are the good effects of riding a bicycle instead of a car?

·         Do you think riding the bicycle is possible everywhere?