レッスンを予約する
Step 1
Read the Article
Read the article to understand the main idea.
記事を読んで、おおよその内容をつかみましょう。
Foreign drivers in Japan to face tougher license conversion rules from October
The National Police Agency on July 10 revealed a draft of new, tougher rules for foreign nationals who wish to convert their driver’s license into a Japanese one, following a series of high-profile car accidents by such drivers.
Under the revised rules, a certificate of residence must be submitted when applying for a license conversion. The current system does not have such a requirement for applicants who are visitors, allowing foreign tourists to apply using temporary addresses such as hotels.
When renewing a converted driver’s license, applicants will need to submit a copy of their certificate of residence, foreign residence card or special permanent residency permit.
The revision also includes making tests on Japan’s traffic rules harder. Currently, the written test consists of 10 yes or no questions on traffic rules and applicants must answer seven questions correctly to pass. After the revision, the test would include 50 questions, and applicants would need a score of at least 90% to pass.
The revision is slated to take effect on Oct. 1 after the government seeks public comments through August.
(The Japan Times)
Step 2
Check the Vocabulary and Phrases
Check the following vocabulary and phrases.
以下の単語やフレーズの発音、意味、使い方を確認しましょう。
convert
切り替える
To change or make something change from one form, purpose, system, etc. to another
I need to convert the old data to the new system format.
古いデータを新しいシステムの形式に切り替える必要があります。
high-profile
注目を集める
Receiving or involving a lot of attention and discussion in the media
She attended a high-profile event with many celebrities.
彼女は多くの有名人が集まる注目度の高いイベントに参加した。
consist of
〜で構成される
To be made of or formed from something
The team consists of players from different countries.
チームはさまざまな国の選手で構成されています。
slate
予定を立てる、計画する
To be expected to happen in the future or to be expected to be or do something in the future
She is slated to give a speech at the conference.
彼女はその会議でスピーチをする予定です。
public comments
一般の人から集める意見
Opinions or suggestions from people about a plan, law, or project
We sent our public comments to the local council about the road construction.
私たちは道路工事についての意見を地方議会に送った。
Step 3
Comprehension Questions
Answer the following questions based on the article.
理解度問題に挑戦しましょう。
Why is the National Police Agency planning to make new, stricter rules for foreign nationals converting their driver’s license?
How will the written test on Japan’s traffic rules change under the revised rules?
Step 4
Discussion
Share your opinions on the following questions.
以下の質問について、自分の考えを述べてみましょう。
Do you agree with the tougher license conversion rules mentioned in the article? Why or why not?
Have you ever applied for or renewed a driver's license? What was the process like?
Should the driving test focus more on theory or on-road practice? Why?
Do you prefer driving or using public transportation? Please explain your answer.
Would you like to try driving in another country? Why or why not?