Unit 1
If you come across unfamiliar words, try to guess their meaning from the context and focus on understanding the overall content.
Step 1. First, try reading the text.
日本の「座敷わらし」
座敷わらしは、 日本の民間伝承に登場する愛らしい妖怪 an adorable yokai (supernatural being) that appears in Japanese folkloreである。 主に東北地方で語り継がれてきたこの妖怪 this yokai that has been passed down through generations mainly in the Tohoku regionは、小さな子供の姿をしており、家の中、特に座敷に現れるとされる。
Zashiki-warashi is an endearing yokai (supernatural being) that appears in Japanese folklore. This yokai, primarily passed down through generations in the Tohoku region, is said to take the form of a small child and appear inside houses, especially in the zashiki (formal tatami room).
その存在は家に幸運をもたらす its presence brings good fortune to the houseと信じられており、 座敷わらしが棲みつく家は繁栄する houses where Zashiki-warashi dwell prosperと言われている。
Its presence is believed to bring good fortune to the household, and it is said that houses inhabited by zashiki-warashi will prosper.
Step 2. Read carefully while checking vocabulary and expressions.
Hover over the words in the sentence (PC) or tap them (smartphone/tablet) to see additional information. You can also refer to the list below.
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[clause in plain form] + と(to) + される(sareru) = "is said to ~", "is believed to ~", "is considered to ~"
Note: "~to sareru" is used to objectively state hearsay or widely believed information, with the speaker taking a neutral stance on its veracity. It's commonly used in academic writing and news reporting.
Step 3. Pay attention to sentence structures and logical groupings to fully understand the text.
To check the meaning of different sections, use the “Show Structure” or “Show Translation” button. You can also hover over the underlines with your cursor (PC) or tap them (smartphone/tablet).
Step 4. Listen to the audio and check if you can follow the content.
Step 5. Repeat the text while focusing on the meaning.
Listen and say it out loud while keeping the meaning in mind. If you're up for it, try memorizing it!
Write down two main points mentioned the text in bullet points. Try to do this without looking at the original text.
Step 6. Summarize.
おつかれさまでした！