【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. gathering /ˈgæð ər ɪŋ/ (n.) – an event where people get together
Example: I only see my aunts and uncles during family gatherings.
2. inappropriate /ˌɪn əˈproʊ pri ɪt/ (adj.) – referring to something that is not suitable
Example: People thought it was inappropriate for her to be texting during the meeting.
3. refrain /rɪˈfreɪn/ (v.) – to hold back from doing something
Example: He refrained himself from answering the phone.
4. participate /pɑrˈtɪs əˌpeɪt/ (v.) – to get involved in something
Example: The man wanted to participate in the discussion.
5. socialize /ˈsoʊ ʃəˌlaɪz/ (v.) – to interact with other people
Example: Henry’s mother took his phone so he could socialize with his family.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
A survey shows that most people do not like the use of smartphones at certain gatherings.
The survey was conducted by the Pew Research Center. Its findings show that 88% of the 3,000 respondents think it is not okay to use a smartphone during dinner. Researchers also looked into people’s views on smartphone use for other events aside from meals. At 94%, almost everyone agreed that they find using phones during meetings inappropriate. In addition, 95% think that they should not be used in theaters, while 96% believe that people should refrain from using their phones during religious services.
While 82% of the participants expressed that using cellphones can negatively affect social gatherings, 89% also admitted to using their phones during social gatherings. Some of their reasons for doing so were to read or send a text message, view an email, or take a picture.
In addition, the participants were asked why they used their phone instead of socializing during gatherings. The top reason, according to 16% of the participants, is that they are not interested in the group’s activity. On the other hand, 15% answered that they simply prefer socializing with people who are not in the group. Finally, 10% responded that their phone use was to avoid participating in the group’s activity.
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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
· When do you think it is okay to use phones during gatherings? Why?
· Aside from the reasons given, why do some people use their phones instead of socializing during gatherings?
Discussion B
· What do you think are the advantages of having a smartphone? Why?
· Can you go a day without using your cellphone? Why or why not?