英語学習にも役立つ、札幌の外国人英語教師の英語日記 札幌 英会話 [ステップアップ]

Looking back

2011年12月22日 (木)

Hey everybody! I hope you’re all well and looking forward to the holidays. When you stop to think about this year – 2011 – what things come to mind? It was an exciting year in both good and bad ways. Of course, none of us will forget the 3.11 earthquake that literally rocked Japan to it’s knees. Or perhaps the Occupy Wall Street movement that started a chain of protests around the world. But certainly there were positive things that happened as well. How about in your life? I  traveled a bit this year, participated in a few big sports events and was able to generally have a very healthy and happy year. I look forward to another year of teaching here at Step Up and improving myself and my lessons as much as possible. Take care and have a safe holiday! See you next year ~

From France

2011年12月20日 (火)

Hello everyone! Long time no write! As many of you may know, I’m now in France with my fiance. It’s a small town in the South of France called Foix (フォア). Foix is near the Pyrenees mountains on the border with Spain. It’s a very beautiful town, but quite small. I don’t think there are any convenience stores here! On Fridays there is a morning market where people sell vegetables, fruit, bread, cheese, honey, olives and many other things. The food is delicious and fresh. I’m really enjoying cooking in the big kitchen in our house!

One of the most interesting things about Foix is the castle, Chateau de Foix. It’s in the middle of the town and is very old, about from the year 987. At Christmas time, the castle is lit up with blue lights. It’s really cool! I’m looking forward to Christmas in France, with all the delicious food and wine. May you all have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Below is a link to a short video of Chateau de Foix at Christmas. Enjoy!

English Tests

2011年11月10日 (木)

Hello everyone!  Are you enjoying the fall weather and leaves?  Fall is almost over and winter is coming soon!  Time to get out your KOTATSU and winter clothes.

Many students at STEP UP are taking English tests, such as TOEIC or EIKEN.  I think it`s a good idea for students to take tests.  First, it gives you some motivation to study.  Second, it improves your vocabulary and listening.  Also, you can use your test scores for future opportunities!

We can help you with your studies, so please let us know if you plan to take a test in the future.

Take care and stay warm!

I`m back!

2011年11月2日 (水)

Hello everyone. I`m sure you have noticed, I`m back! My surgery was a success, however the recovery will take a little time. At the moment I am walking slowly and awkwardly, however I am better. It will take me a little time before I can walk normally. A massive thank you to everyone who has been supporting me and worried about me. I am so glad to be back and looking forward to teaching you all again. See you soon 😀

Running

2011年10月21日 (金)

Are there any runners out there? Too be honest, I have a hard time calling myself a runner. I only ran in one event this year (the Sapporo Marathon – 10k) and I didn’t really train at all. To be even more honest, I don’t particularly enjoy running. At least not the first 15 minutes, or so. What I enjoy is the feeling I have after running about 5kms – that “runner’s high”, as it’s called. That, and the feeling of having gotten some good cardiovascular exercise after I’ve finished. Now is the season when it’s best to run. The air is cool and crisp, and the fallen leaves crunch quite satisfyingly under my shoes as I run through Hokudai’s campus. If you’ve ever wanted to try running, now is the season! Buy a discount pair of running shoes, charge your Ipod, and try running (lightly) for 20 or 30 minutes without stopping. I bet you’ll learn to like it – at least as much as I do;)