【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. predict [pri-DIKT] (v.) – to declare or tell something about the future
Example: The sports analysts predicted that football will gain more fans in the next few years.
2. dominate [DOM-uh-neyt] (v.) – to practice power over something
Example: The team dominates the football tournament after winning previous championships.
3. tournament [TOO R-nuh-muh nt, TUR-] (n.) – a series of sports contest in which participants play games
Example: Different sports team participated in preparing for the tournament.
4. marvelous [MAHR-vuh-luh s] (adj.) – excellent or incredible
Example: The marvelous team proved that it deserves to be the champion.
5. provoke [pruh-VOHK] (v.) – to make someone angry or irritated
Example: During the match, the player walked out of the field after being provoked by one of the opponent’s fans.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
Analysts predict that Spain will most likely win the 2014 World Cup, one of the biggest football events of all time.
Throughout its history, the World Cup championship seemed to be dominated by the South American and Latin American teams such as Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina. Although the next World Cup will take place in Brazil, many people are now considering Spain as one of the strongest teams for next year.
According to sports experts, Spain has a huge chance of winning the tournament because of its team’s strong understanding of time and space inside the football field. Spain is also known to have very strong midfielders. In fact, it has three of the best midfielders in the world. Because of these strengths, Spain was able to put up marvelous performances in other football tournaments, such as the Euro Cup 2012.
However, this prediction may provoke the Brazilian team since it is aiming for a home advantage. The Argentinian team and other South American and Latin American teams also disagree with this prediction.
Other teams may still have chances of winning the tournament because of the fact that only one European team has won a World Cup title outside of Europe. Spain’s tendency to not conclude a game may also give hopes to other teams.
But still, with a powerful team that has a terrific chemistry and an experienced coach, Spain may just pull it off in the 2014 World Cup.
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【Viewpoint Discussion】
ディスカッションテーマ
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
· Do you think that Spain can really win the World Cup despite its team’s weaknesses? Why do you say so?
· Why do you think do South American teams dominate the World Cup?
Discussion B
· What do you think are the characteristics of an excellent athlete? Discuss with your tutor.
· How can people in your country help your athletes improve? Please explain your answer.