【2024年12月17日】2級の方の問題に関して、過去問のレベルに応じて語彙の難易度を若干調整(簡単に)しました。
こんにちは、広島市の四技能型・英検対策の英語塾、スクール今西の今西一太と申します。
2024年度から英検の2級と準1級の英作文に要約の課題が入ることになったのはご存じの方も多いかと思います。
講師の先生からも「要約問題に使える教材はありませんか」という問い合わせが徐々に増えてきました。ただ、現時点では過去問も存在せず、2級と準1級について例題が1つずつ提示されているだけですので、どのように指導・学習していけばよいか手探り状態の方がほとんどではないかと思います。
そこで、私の方でChatGPT4を使用して英検2級と準1級の要約問題のサンプルを作成してみました。
サンプルで示されている例題を入力し、「これは英検の新しい問題形式です。レベル・構成・分量などが全く同じようになるように、これと同じような問題を〇個作成してください」のような感じのプロンプトを用いて、分量などがおかしくなっている部分を若干微調整しつつ作成しました。
教室でも使用する予定なのですが、もし使いたいという方がいらっしゃいましたら、以下問題例と解答を提示しておきますので、ご自由にお使いください。
以下の文章をそれぞれ45-55語に要約してください。
問題1
When university students consider their career options, some choose to focus solely on their studies, while others decide to participate in internships. There are other choices, too. These days, more students are choosing to do internships. What are the reasons for this?
Some students choose internships because they provide real-world experience that is not available in the classroom. They believe that working in a real job setting helps them understand what a future career might involve. Other students look for internships as a way to build their professional network, hoping it will make it easier to find a job after graduation.
On the other hand, some students find that internships can be very time-consuming and may interfere with their studies. This can be stressful, especially during exam periods. Some internships are also unpaid, which can be a financial burden for students who need to support themselves.
問題2
With the rise of technology, some employees work from an office, while others choose to work remotely. These days, more employees prefer remote work. What are the reasons for this?
Some employees find remote work advantageous because it allows them flexibility to manage their time and reduces commuting stress. They appreciate the comfort of working from home and the ability to balance work and personal life more effectively. Other employees value the opportunity to work quietly away from the busy office environment, which can improve productivity.
On the other hand, some employees feel lonely because they miss the social interactions that come with an office setting. This lack of face-to-face communication can sometimes lead to misunderstandings and reduce a team’s unity. Additionally, remote work requires a high level of self-control and motivation, which can be difficult for some.
問題3
As cities grow larger, some people prefer to drive their own cars, while others choose public transportation. Recently, there has been an increase in the use of public transport. What are the reasons for this?
Many individuals choose public transportation because it is more environmentally friendly than driving personal vehicles and can greatly reduce traffic jams in cities. It is also often cheaper than owning a car regarding fuel costs and parking fees. Others enjoy public transport because it allows them to read, relax, or even work during their commute instead of focusing on driving.
However, public transportation can also be unpredictable and overcrowded. Delays are common, which can affect daily schedules and lead to frustration. Furthermore, public vehicles are not always well-maintained, possibly making commutes uncomfortable.
問題4
When deciding where to live, some people choose city areas, while others prefer country settings. The choice between city and countryside living has become a major decision for many. Why do people choose one over the other?
City living is often favored for its convenience, easy access to jobs, and cultural advantages like museums, theaters, and restaurants. Urban areas tend to offer better education and healthcare services, which draw families and young workers.
On the other hand, rural living is valued for its peaceful environment and tight communities. The lower cost of living and the plenty of nature make it an attractive choice for those looking to escape the fast pace of urban life. However, rural areas often lack the facilities and services found in cities, which can be a disadvantage for some.
問題5
As technology advances, some people choose traditional home setups, while others integrate smart technology into their living spaces. Smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular. What are the reasons for this?
Many homeowners adopt smart home technology for its convenience and efficiency. It allows them to control lighting, heating, and security systems remotely, which can lead to energy savings and increased home security. Additionally, smart devices can offer personalized experiences, adjusting environments according to individual preferences.
However, smart home technology also raises concerns about privacy and security. The risk of personal data breaches and the dependence on technology can be troubling for some. Moreover, the initial setup and maintenance of smart devices can be costly and complex.
問題6
With the expansion of digital platforms, some students prefer traditional classroom learning, while others choose online education. Online education is becoming popular. What are the reasons for this?
Students are drawn to online education for its flexibility and accessibility, allowing them to learn at their own pace and schedule. It is particularly appealing to those who need to balance studies with work or family commitments. Additionally, online platforms often provide a wide range of courses that might not be available locally.
However, online education can lack the personal interaction of traditional classrooms, which is very important for some learners. The lack of quick feedback from teachers and classmates can make it hard to check progress and stay motivated. Moreover, the success of online learning can heavily depend on the student’s self-control and the speed of their internet connection.
解答例1:
University students increasingly choose internships for real-world experience and networking opportunities, hoping to ease job searches post-graduation. However, internships can be time-consuming and interfere with studies, causing stress during exams. Additionally, unpaid internships pose financial challenges for self-supporting students.
解答例2:
These days, more employees choose remote work for its flexibility and comfort, which help them balance their personal and professional lives and increase productivity in a quiet environment. However, challenges such as isolation, communication issues, and the need for self-discipline highlight the downsides of remote working.
解答例3:
Recently, more people are using public transportation because it is environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and allows passengers to use travel time productively. However, issues like unreliability, overcrowding, and poor maintenance can make public transport frustrating and uncomfortable.
解答例4:
People choose urban living for its convenience, job opportunities, and cultural attractions, benefiting from superior education and healthcare. In contrast, rural living offers a peaceful environment and lower cost of living but lacks many urban amenities, presenting a trade-off between a tranquil lifestyle and access to services.
解答例5:
Smart home technology is favored for the convenience, efficiency, and personalization it offers, leading to potential energy savings and enhanced security. However, privacy concerns, the risk of data breaches, and the high costs associated with its adoption are significant drawbacks.
解答例6:
Online education is increasingly popular due to its flexibility, accessibility, and the broad selection of courses available, suiting those who juggle multiple responsibilities. However, the lack of direct interaction and the need for self-discipline and reliable internet present challenges that diminish the effectiveness of online learning for some students.
以下の文章をそれぞれを 60-70語程度の英語に要約してください。
問題1:
From the late 1990s through the early 2020s, many cities around the world have adopted urban greening policies aimed at increasing public parks and green roofs. These initiatives, supported by environmental agencies and community groups, have been promoted as a means to enhance urban living and mitigate environmental issues such as air pollution and urban heat islands.
Proponents of these policies argue that expanding urban green spaces not only makes cities more aesthetically pleasing but also improves public health by reducing pollution and providing people with spaces for recreation. They claim that these green areas are essential for mental and physical health, offering a refuge from the urban environment.
However, critics of urban greening policies raise concerns about the high maintenance costs associated with these green spaces. They argue that the funds used for these projects could be better spent on other public services such as education and public transportation. Furthermore, there is a worry that these green spaces attract higher-income residents, leading to gentrification and potentially displacing lower-income families and small businesses.
問題2:
Since the early 2010s, there has been a significant increase in the adoption of telemedicine, driven by technological advancements and greater internet access. This trend has been particularly noticeable in rural and remote areas, where traditional medical facilities are scarce and the need for reliable healthcare is critical.
Supporters of telemedicine argue that it provides essential health services to underserved populations, making medical care more accessible and timely, especially for those living far from healthcare centers or with limited mobility. It is touted as a revolutionary way to manage chronic conditions and conduct routine consultations, reducing the need for travel and allowing for efficient health monitoring.
However, critics are concerned about the limitations of telemedicine, particularly the challenges of diagnosing without physical exams and the potential for reduced patient-doctor relationships. They also raise privacy concerns, as the transmission of sensitive health data over networks could be vulnerable to breaches. Furthermore, the effectiveness of telemedicine relies heavily on the availability of stable internet connections, which may not be consistent in all regions.
問題3:
Throughout the 2010s, several local governments in Japan and other countries began experimenting with the introduction of digital currencies to stimulate local economies and promote regional products. These digital currencies are designed to be used exclusively within the community to purchase goods and services, with the aim of boosting local spending and supporting small businesses.
Supporters of local digital currencies argue that they help keep money circulating within the community, thereby strengthening local economies. They also believe that such currencies can attract tourists looking for unique local experiences, and foster a stronger sense of community identity and pride.
However, skeptics of these initiatives express concerns about the practical challenges of integrating digital currencies into daily life. They point out issues related to security, user adoption, and the overall complexity of managing a separate currency system. Additionally, critics worry that if these currencies are not widely accepted, the projects might ultimately fail and waste valuable public resources.
問題4:
Since the early 2000s, there has been a notable increase in political engagement among young people around the world. This trend is driven by greater access to information through social media and increased awareness of global issues like climate change, social justice, and political corruption. Many young people feel that their involvement is crucial to shaping a future that aligns with their values and aspirations.
Proponents of increased youth engagement in politics argue that it brings fresh perspectives and new ideas to the political landscape, potentially leading to more innovative and effective governance. They also believe that involving young people in politics strengthens democracy by ensuring a more representative and responsive government.
However, there are concerns that despite their enthusiasm, young people often lack the experience necessary to navigate complex political issues effectively. Critics argue that this might lead to oversimplification of issues or emotional rather than pragmatic decision-making. Furthermore, there is a risk that political polarization may intensify if young activists are driven more by ideology than by practical considerations.
問題5:
From the late 2000s onward, an increasing number of companies worldwide have started to incorporate sustainability into their business models. This shift has been partly driven by consumer demand for environmentally friendly products and practices, as well as by regulatory pressures to reduce carbon footprints and waste production.
Supporters of corporate sustainability initiatives argue that they not only help protect the environment but also create long-term value for the businesses by improving brand reputation and customer loyalty. These initiatives are seen as essential for the survival of businesses in a world increasingly focused on environmental impacts.
Critics, however, argue that some companies engage in "greenwashing," where they mislead consumers about the environmental benefits of their products or practices. They also point out that the costs associated with implementing sustainable practices can be high, potentially putting smaller companies at a disadvantage and leading to higher prices for consumers.
解答例1
The introduction of urban greening policies in cities worldwide has aimed to improve quality of life by reducing environmental issues and providing recreational spaces. While supporters highlight the health and aesthetic benefits of increased greenery, critics point to the significant maintenance costs and potential for these initiatives to contribute to gentrification, arguing that the funds might be better allocated to other essential public services.
解答例2
Telemedicine has expanded significantly, offering increased access to healthcare, especially in underserved areas. Proponents praise its ability to make healthcare more accessible and efficient, but critics express concerns about the quality of care due to the lack of physical examinations and potential privacy issues. Additionally, the dependence on reliable internet connectivity remains a significant barrier in many areas.
解答例3
Local governments have introduced digital currencies with the aim of revitalizing local economies and promoting community cohesion. Advocates highlight the potential economic benefits and enhanced local pride, but critics raise concerns about the feasibility, security, and adoption challenges that could undermine these initiatives and potentially result in wasted resources.
解答例4
The rise in political engagement among young people is seen as a way to infuse politics with new ideas and to ensure that governance reflects the diverse views of the population. While supporters praise the vitality and perspective that young people bring to politics, critics caution that their lack of experience could lead to oversimplifications and heightened polarization in political debates.
解答例5
Since the late 2000s, more companies have embraced sustainability due to consumer demand for eco-friendly products and regulatory pressures to cut emissions and waste. Supporters believe these efforts protect the environment and enhance business value through improved brand reputation and loyalty. Critics argue that some firms engage in "greenwashing," misleading about their environmental impact, which can raise costs and disadvantage smaller companies.