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HISTORY OF NATIONAL PORRIDGE DAY The history of porridge is as rich as the dish itself. Before the invention of baking ovens, porridge was the most essential part of the British diet. Porridge, or gruel, has been indulged in cross-culturally for centuries. The origins of porridge can be traced to Northern Europe, where it was traditionally enjoyed savory. The word ‘porridge’ first appeared in the 16th century and is believed to be a spin-off of the word ‘pottage’ — a type of stew. Porridge hasn’t always been the way it is today. Preparation ingredients varied from grass-borne grains to other crops. Quinoa grain has been used for making porridge for more than 3,000 years, whereas rice porridge was eaten in China since 2500 B.C. It goes back even further than this, with evidence discovered by researchers proving that the cooked mush was eaten in some form as far back as 12,000 years ago, at the beginning of the Neolithic Revolution. Soon after, people started preparing thick pancakes on stone ovens or hot tiles, using porridge-like mixtures. Such flatbreads are mentioned throughout the Old Testament, but a similar innovation simultaneously occurred throughout the world. The popularity of porridge and its many variations led to the creation of corn cakes, cornbreads, corn puddings, etc. In the past few years, there has been a renewed interest in porridge. Artisan cooks and high-profile chefs are experimenting with the bland ingredients of porridge to blend and create different flavors around the world.

Germany Dam Busters Raid
1943 : Lancaster bombers use the revolutionary bomb designed to bounce on the water to bypass dam defenses ( immortalized in a 1954 war film Dambusters ) . The bombs were invented for the task by aircraft engineer Dr Barnes Wallis with pilots flying the Lancaster bombers just 100 ft above the water. The destruction of the dams two on the rivers Möhne and Sorpe, and a third on the River Eder caused flood waters to sweep through the Ruhr valley, damaging factories, houses and power stations.

Scroll down to view the Simplified Chinese version (向下滚动查看简体中文版本)   Western Painting vs. Eastern Painting East meets West. Let's take a look at these two paintings here. Do you think these two paintings are from the same background? Well, it's pretty obvious that they are not. The painting on the right, an example of an Eastern painting, is from Asia. And the painting on the left, a Western painting, is from Europe. Eastern and Western paintings have different characteristics. Let's find out more about them. Western paintings use a wide range of colors filling the whole canvas. In addition, light and perspective are used to make a three-dimensional illusion, which makes the paintings look more realistic. Also, images and colors fill an entire canvas without leaving any empty space. On the other hand, this painting shows some characteristics of Eastern paintings. Eastern paintings simplify color schemes and make lines simple and graceful. They also use more empty space than images. They aren't meant to show realistic images. Instead, they idealize them. Do you know that some Western-style painters have been influenced by these Eastern painting techniques? Toulouse-Lautrec, a famous European painter, was one of them. His masterpiece, At the Moulin Rouge, The Dance, is very much Western-styled. It presents people and the background elaborately and realistically with a wide range of colors. However, this painting, also created by Toulouse-Lautrec, was inspired by Japanese prints. It is gracefully composed using simple lines. Look at these two paintings. Can you see their differences? Can you see the influence of Eastern-style painting? Simplified Chinese version 西方绘画与东方绘画 东方与西方相遇。让我们来看看这两幅画。你认为这两幅画来自同一个背景吗？很明显，它们不是。右边的画是东方绘画的例子，来自亚洲。左边的画是西方绘画，来自欧洲。东方和西方绘画有不同的特点。让我们来进一步了解它们。西方绘画使用各种各样的颜色填满整个画布。此外，光线和透视用于制造三维幻觉，使绘画看起来更逼真。而且，图像和颜色填满整个画布，不留任何空白。另一方面，这幅画展示了东方绘画的一些特点。东方绘画简化了配色方案，使线条简洁优美。它们还使用了比图像更多的空白。它们不是为了展示现实的图像。相反，它们将它们理想化。你知道一些西方风格的画家受到了这些东方绘画技巧的影响吗？著名的欧洲画家图卢兹-罗特列克就是其中之一。他的代表作《红磨坊之舞》带有浓厚的西式风格，人物和背景都描绘得细致逼真，色彩丰富。然而，这幅同样出自图卢兹·罗特列克之手的画作，却受到日本版画的启发，用简单的线条勾勒出优美的线条。看看这两幅画，你能看出它们的区别吗？你能看出东方绘画的影响吗？ References (optional) Links 【Art & Design English- 02】What is Art For? Toulouse Lautrec History of Asian art Japanese traditional painting Discussion Questions (Art) How great is your interest in art? What’s the best art gallery you’ve been to? Do you like modern art? What do you think of installation art? Do you ever think a lot of art is not really art? Do you have a favorite artist? What kind of art do you like – paintings, sculpture, ceramics, etc.? What is art? Does art change the way you think or feel? Do you think anyone can be an artist or do you need a special talent? Do you think all children should study art at school? Do you think children should learn the history of art? Do you think a painting can really be worth a million (or more) dollars? Do you think today’s artists are as good as those from hundreds of years ago? What was the last painting/poster/piece of art you bought? Why did you buy it? Describe the pieces of artwork in your house. What kind of art is your country famous for? What kind of life do you think an artist’s is? Do you have any artistic talents? How would the world be different without artists? Discussion Questions (Design) How would you define design? How do you know if something is designed well? Do you think design is important? Why? Have you ever designed anything? What are some well-designed products? What are some poorly designed products? Are there any designers you admire? Have you done any interior design in your home? What are some examples of good design that you appreciate? Why? How does design influence our daily experiences and interactions with products and environments? Can you think of any iconic designs or designers that have made a significant impact on society? What are some key principles or elements of design? How does cultural and historical context influence design aesthetics? Can you describe a design project or process that you have been involved in or observed? How does user experience (UX) design contribute to the functionality and usability of products and services? What role does sustainability play in design? Share examples of environmentally conscious design practices. How can design be used to solve social and humanitarian challenges? What are some current trends in design that you find interesting? How does technology influence the field of design? Discuss the impact of digital tools and software. Can you think of any examples of design that have sparked controversy or provoked discussions? How can design be inclusive and accessible to people with diverse abilities and backgrounds? Can you share any examples of designs that evoke specific emotions or create a particular atmosphere? How does design differ across various disciplines, such as graphic design, industrial design, or interior design? What are some ethical considerations in design? Discuss the responsibility of designers towards users and society. Can you think of any design failures or instances where poor design affected the user experience? What lessons can be learned from them? How can design thinking be applied beyond traditional design fields to problem-solving and innovation? What skills and qualities do you think are essential for a successful career in design? How has technology influenced the field of graphic design in recent years? Can you think of any examples of design that successfully blend form and function? Explain why they are effective. How does cultural diversity influence design aesthetics and the portrayal of different cultures in design? What are some key considerations in designing user interfaces for mobile applications? Can you describe a design project that aims to address sustainability or environmental issues? How does typography contribute to the overall design and message of printed materials? What are some effective ways to gather user feedback during the design process? How can color psychology be utilized in design to evoke specific emotions or convey certain messages? Can you think of any examples where design played a crucial role in shaping a company’s brand identity? What are the main differences between designing for print media and designing for digital media? How can design be used to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities? Can you describe a design trend that you find intriguing? Why do you think it has gained popularity? How does packaging design influence consumer perception and purchasing decisions? What ethical considerations should designers keep in mind when creating advertisements or marketing materials? How has social media influenced the field of design and the way designers showcase their work? Can you think of any innovative design solutions that have improved people’s lives in developing countries? What are some challenges in designing for virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) experiences? How does design impact the gaming industry, particularly in terms of user interface and user experience? Can you describe a famous architectural design that has become an iconic landmark? What makes it significant? How do cultural symbols and icons influence design choices, especially in international contexts? Discussion Questions (Art Culture) How often do you go to art museums? Do you consider yourself to be artistic? What do you think about modern art paintings? How many forms of art can you name? What is your favorite form of art? Is graffiti art? Why or why not? What is the most famous statue in your country? Who is your favorite artist? Why do you like them so much? Do you think that art is important to society? Why? Have you ever tried drawing, painting, sculpting, or something else artistic? What is the most famous painting in your country? What is traditional art like in your culture? What country do you think is the most creative? Why is art so expensive? Do you think it should be more, or less, expensive? Do you have any artistic friends? What kinds of art do they create?

Scroll down to view the Simplified Chinese version (向下滚动查看简体中文版本)   Western Painting vs. Eastern Painting East meets West. Let's take a look at these two paintings here. Do you think these two paintings are from the same background? Well, it's pretty obvious that they are not. The painting on the right, an example of an Eastern painting, is from Asia. And the painting on the left, a Western painting, is from Europe. Eastern and Western paintings have different characteristics. Let's find out more about them. Western paintings use a wide range of colors filling the whole canvas. In addition, light and perspective are used to make a three-dimensional illusion, which makes the paintings look more realistic. Also, images and colors fill an entire canvas without leaving any empty space. On the other hand, this painting shows some characteristics of Eastern paintings. Eastern paintings simplify color schemes and make lines simple and graceful. They also use more empty space than images. They aren't meant to show realistic images. Instead, they idealize them. Do you know that some Western-style painters have been influenced by these Eastern painting techniques? Toulouse-Lautrec, a famous European painter, was one of them. His masterpiece, At the Moulin Rouge, The Dance, is very much Western-styled. It presents people and the background elaborately and realistically with a wide range of colors. However, this painting, also created by Toulouse-Lautrec, was inspired by Japanese prints. It is gracefully composed using simple lines. Look at these two paintings. Can you see their differences? Can you see the influence of Eastern-style painting? Simplified Chinese version 西方绘画与东方绘画 东方与西方相遇。让我们来看看这两幅画。你认为这两幅画来自同一个背景吗？很明显，它们不是。右边的画是东方绘画的例子，来自亚洲。左边的画是西方绘画，来自欧洲。东方和西方绘画有不同的特点。让我们来进一步了解它们。西方绘画使用各种各样的颜色填满整个画布。此外，光线和透视用于制造三维幻觉，使绘画看起来更逼真。而且，图像和颜色填满整个画布，不留任何空白。另一方面，这幅画展示了东方绘画的一些特点。东方绘画简化了配色方案，使线条简洁优美。它们还使用了比图像更多的空白。它们不是为了展示现实的图像。相反，它们将它们理想化。你知道一些西方风格的画家受到了这些东方绘画技巧的影响吗？著名的欧洲画家图卢兹-罗特列克就是其中之一。他的代表作《红磨坊之舞》带有浓厚的西式风格，人物和背景都描绘得细致逼真，色彩丰富。然而，这幅同样出自图卢兹·罗特列克之手的画作，却受到日本版画的启发，用简单的线条勾勒出优美的线条。看看这两幅画，你能看出它们的区别吗？你能看出东方绘画的影响吗？ References (optional) Links 【Art & Design English- 02】What is Art For? Discussion Questions (Art) How great is your interest in art? What’s the best art gallery you’ve been to? Do you like modern art? What do you think of installation art? Do you ever think a lot of art is not really art? Do you have a favorite artist? What kind of art do you like – paintings, sculpture, ceramics, etc.? What is art? Does art change the way you think or feel? Do you think anyone can be an artist or do you need a special talent? Do you think all children should study art at school? Do you think children should learn the history of art? Do you think a painting can really be worth a million (or more) dollars? Do you think today’s artists are as good as those from hundreds of years ago? What was the last painting/poster/piece of art you bought? Why did you buy it? Describe the pieces of artwork in your house. What kind of art is your country famous for? What kind of life do you think an artist’s is? Do you have any artistic talents? How would the world be different without artists? Discussion Questions (Design) How would you define design? How do you know if something is designed well? Do you think design is important? Why? Have you ever designed anything? What are some well-designed products? What are some poorly designed products? Are there any designers you admire? Have you done any interior design in your home? What are some examples of good design that you appreciate? Why? How does design influence our daily experiences and interactions with products and environments? Can you think of any iconic designs or designers that have made a significant impact on society? What are some key principles or elements of design? How does cultural and historical context influence design aesthetics? Can you describe a design project or process that you have been involved in or observed? How does user experience (UX) design contribute to the functionality and usability of products and services? What role does sustainability play in design? Share examples of environmentally conscious design practices. How can design be used to solve social and humanitarian challenges? What are some current trends in design that you find interesting? How does technology influence the field of design? Discuss the impact of digital tools and software. Can you think of any examples of design that have sparked controversy or provoked discussions? How can design be inclusive and accessible to people with diverse abilities and backgrounds? Can you share any examples of designs that evoke specific emotions or create a particular atmosphere? How does design differ across various disciplines, such as graphic design, industrial design, or interior design? What are some ethical considerations in design? Discuss the responsibility of designers towards users and society. Can you think of any design failures or instances where poor design affected the user experience? What lessons can be learned from them? How can design thinking be applied beyond traditional design fields to problem-solving and innovation? What skills and qualities do you think are essential for a successful career in design? How has technology influenced the field of graphic design in recent years? Can you think of any examples of design that successfully blend form and function? Explain why they are effective. How does cultural diversity influence design aesthetics and the portrayal of different cultures in design? What are some key considerations in designing user interfaces for mobile applications? Can you describe a design project that aims to address sustainability or environmental issues? How does typography contribute to the overall design and message of printed materials? What are some effective ways to gather user feedback during the design process? How can color psychology be utilized in design to evoke specific emotions or convey certain messages? Can you think of any examples where design played a crucial role in shaping a company’s brand identity? What are the main differences between designing for print media and designing for digital media? How can design be used to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities? Can you describe a design trend that you find intriguing? Why do you think it has gained popularity? How does packaging design influence consumer perception and purchasing decisions? What ethical considerations should designers keep in mind when creating advertisements or marketing materials? How has social media influenced the field of design and the way designers showcase their work? Can you think of any innovative design solutions that have improved people’s lives in developing countries? What are some challenges in designing for virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) experiences? How does design impact the gaming industry, particularly in terms of user interface and user experience? Can you describe a famous architectural design that has become an iconic landmark? What makes it significant? How do cultural symbols and icons influence design choices, especially in international contexts? Discussion Questions (Art Culture) How often do you go to art museums? Do you consider yourself to be artistic? What do you think about modern art paintings? How many forms of art can you name? What is your favorite form of art? Is graffiti art? Why or why not? What is the most famous statue in your country? Who is your favorite artist? Why do you like them so much? Do you think that art is important to society? Why? Have you ever tried drawing, painting, sculpting, or something else artistic? What is the most famous painting in your country? What is traditional art like in your culture? What country do you think is the most creative? Why is art so expensive? Do you think it should be more, or less, expensive? Do you have any artistic friends? What kinds of art do they create?

Animation Basics: The optical illusion of motion Take a series of still, sequential images. Let's look at them one by one. Faster. Now, let's remove the gaps, and go faster still. Wait for it......bam! Motion! Why is that? Intellectually, we know we're just looking at a series of still images, but when we see them change fast enough, they produce the optical illusion of appearing as a single, persistent image that's gradually changing form and position. This effect is the basis for all motion picture technology, from our LED screens of today to their 20th-century cathode ray forebearers, from cinematic film projection to the novelty toy, even, it's been suggested, all the way back to the Stone Age when humans began painting on cave walls. This phenomenon of perceiving apparent motion in successive images is due to a characteristic of human perception historically referred to as "persistence of vision." The term is attributed to the English-Swiss physicist Peter Mark Roget, who, in the early 19th century, used it to describe a particular defect of the eye that resulted in a moving object appearing to be still when it reached a certain speed. Not long after, the term was applied to describe the opposite, the apparent motion of still images, by Belgian physicist Joseph Plateau, inventor of the phenakistoscope. He defined persistence of vision as the result of successive afterimages, which were retained and then combined in the retina, making us believe that what we were seeing was a single object in motion. This explanation was widely accepted in the decades to follow and up through the turn of the 20th century when some began to question what was physiologically going on. In 1912, German psychologist Max Wertheimer outlined the basic primary stages of apparent motion using simple optical illusions. These experiments led him to conclude the phenomenon was due to processes that lie behind the retina. In 1915, Hugo Munsterberg, a German-American pioneer in applied psychology, also suggested that the apparent motion of successive images is not due to their being retained in the eye, but is superadded by the action of the mind. In the century to follow, experiments by physiologists have pretty much confirmed their conclusions. As it relates to the illusion of motion pictures, the persistence of vision has less to do with vision itself than how it's interpreted in the brain. Research has shown that different aspects of what the eye sees, like form, color, depth, and motion, are transmitted to different areas of the visual cortex via different pathways from the retina. It's the continuous interaction of various computations in the visual cortex that stitch those different aspects together and culminate in the perception. Our brains are constantly working, synchronizing what we see, hear, smell, and touch into meaningful experiences in the moment-to-moment flow of the present. So, in order to create the illusion of motion in successive images, we need to get the timing of our intervals close to the speed at which our brains process the present. So, how fast is the present happening according to our brains? Well, we can get an idea by measuring how fast the images need to be changing for the illusion to work. Let's see if we can figure it out by repeating our experiment. Here's the sequence presented at a rate of one frame per two seconds with one second of black in between. At this rate of change with the blank space separating the images, there's no real motion perceptible. As we lessen the duration of blank space, a slight change in position becomes more apparent, and you start to get an inkling of a sense of motion between the disparate frames. One frame per second, two frames per second, four frames per second. Now we're starting to get a feeling of motion, but it's really not very smooth. We're still aware of the fact that we're looking at separate images. Let's speed up, eight frames per second, twelve frames per second. It looks like we're about there. At twenty-four frames per second, the motion looks even smoother. This is standard full-speed. So, the point at which we lose awareness of the intervals and begin to see apparent motion seems to kick in at around eight to twelve frames per second. This is in the neighborhood of what science has determined to be the general threshold of our awareness of seeing separate images. Generally speaking, we begin to lose that awareness at intervals of around 100 milliseconds per image, which is equal to a frame rate of around ten frames per second. As the frame rate increases, we lose awareness of the intervals completely and are all the more convinced of the reality of the illusion.
References (optional) Links 【Art & Design English- 01】What is Art? 【Art & Design English- 02】What is Art For? Discussion Questions (Art) How great is your interest in art? What’s the best art gallery you’ve been to? Do you like modern art? What do you think of installation art? Do you ever think a lot of art is not really art? Do you have a favorite artist? What kind of art do you like – paintings, sculpture, ceramics, etc.? What is art? Does art change the way you think or feel? Do you think anyone can be an artist or do you need a special talent? Do you think all children should study art at school? Do you think children should learn the history of art? Do you think a painting can really be worth a million (or more) dollars? Do you think today’s artists are as good as those from hundreds of years ago? What was the last painting/poster/piece of art you bought? Why did you buy it? Describe the pieces of artwork in your house. What kind of art is your country famous for? What kind of life do you think an artist’s is? Do you have any artistic talents? How would the world be different without artists? Discussion Questions (Design) How would you define design? How do you know if something is designed well? Do you think design is important? Why? Have you ever designed anything? What are some well-designed products? What are some poorly designed products? Are there any designers you admire? Have you done any interior design in your home? What are some examples of good design that you appreciate? Why? How does design influence our daily experiences and interactions with products and environments? Can you think of any iconic designs or designers that have made a significant impact on society? What are some key principles or elements of design? How does cultural and historical context influence design aesthetics? Can you describe a design project or process that you have been involved in or observed? How does user experience (UX) design contribute to the functionality and usability of products and services? What role does sustainability play in design? Share examples of environmentally conscious design practices. How can design be used to solve social and humanitarian challenges? What are some current trends in design that you find interesting? How does technology influence the field of design? Discuss the impact of digital tools and software. Can you think of any examples of design that have sparked controversy or provoked discussions? How can design be inclusive and accessible to people with diverse abilities and backgrounds? Can you share any examples of designs that evoke specific emotions or create a particular atmosphere? How does design differ across various disciplines, such as graphic design, industrial design, or interior design? What are some ethical considerations in design? Discuss the responsibility of designers towards users and society. Can you think of any design failures or instances where poor design affected the user experience? What lessons can be learned from them? How can design thinking be applied beyond traditional design fields to problem-solving and innovation? What skills and qualities do you think are essential for a successful career in design? How has technology influenced the field of graphic design in recent years? Can you think of any examples of design that successfully blend form and function? Explain why they are effective. How does cultural diversity influence design aesthetics and the portrayal of different cultures in design? What are some key considerations in designing user interfaces for mobile applications? Can you describe a design project that aims to address sustainability or environmental issues? How does typography contribute to the overall design and message of printed materials? What are some effective ways to gather user feedback during the design process? How can color psychology be utilized in design to evoke specific emotions or convey certain messages? Can you think of any examples where design played a crucial role in shaping a company’s brand identity? What are the main differences between designing for print media and designing for digital media? How can design be used to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities? Can you describe a design trend that you find intriguing? Why do you think it has gained popularity? How does packaging design influence consumer perception and purchasing decisions? What ethical considerations should designers keep in mind when creating advertisements or marketing materials? How has social media influenced the field of design and the way designers showcase their work? Can you think of any innovative design solutions that have improved people’s lives in developing countries? What are some challenges in designing for virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) experiences? How does design impact the gaming industry, particularly in terms of user interface and user experience? Can you describe a famous architectural design that has become an iconic landmark? What makes it significant? How do cultural symbols and icons influence design choices, especially in international contexts? Discussion Questions (Art Culture) How often do you go to art museums? Do you consider yourself to be artistic? What do you think about modern art paintings? How many forms of art can you name? What is your favorite form of art? Is graffiti art? Why or why not? What is the most famous statue in your country? Who is your favorite artist? Why do you like them so much? Do you think that art is important to society? Why? Have you ever tried drawing, painting, sculpting, or something else artistic? What is the most famous painting in your country? What is traditional art like in your culture? What country do you think is the most creative? Why is art so expensive? Do you think it should be more, or less, expensive? Do you have any artistic friends? What kinds of art do they create?

Animation Basics: The optical illusion of motion Take a series of still, sequential images. Let's look at them one by one. Faster. Now, let's remove the gaps, and go faster still. Wait for it......bam! Motion! Why is that? Intellectually, we know we're just looking at a series of still images, but when we see them change fast enough, they produce the optical illusion of appearing as a single, persistent image that's gradually changing form and position. This effect is the basis for all motion picture technology, from our LED screens of today to their 20th-century cathode ray forebearers, from cinematic film projection to the novelty toy, even, it's been suggested, all the way back to the Stone Age when humans began painting on cave walls. This phenomenon of perceiving apparent motion in successive images is due to a characteristic of human perception historically referred to as "persistence of vision." The term is attributed to the English-Swiss physicist Peter Mark Roget, who, in the early 19th century, used it to describe a particular defect of the eye that resulted in a moving object appearing to be still when it reached a certain speed. Not long after, the term was applied to describe the opposite, the apparent motion of still images, by Belgian physicist Joseph Plateau, inventor of the phenakistoscope. He defined persistence of vision as the result of successive afterimages, which were retained and then combined in the retina, making us believe that what we were seeing was a single object in motion. This explanation was widely accepted in the decades to follow and up through the turn of the 20th century when some began to question what was physiologically going on. In 1912, German psychologist Max Wertheimer outlined the basic primary stages of apparent motion using simple optical illusions. These experiments led him to conclude the phenomenon was due to processes that lie behind the retina. In 1915, Hugo Munsterberg, a German-American pioneer in applied psychology, also suggested that the apparent motion of successive images is not due to their being retained in the eye, but is superadded by the action of the mind. In the century to follow, experiments by physiologists have pretty much confirmed their conclusions. As it relates to the illusion of motion pictures, the persistence of vision has less to do with vision itself than how it's interpreted in the brain. Research has shown that different aspects of what the eye sees, like form, color, depth, and motion, are transmitted to different areas of the visual cortex via different pathways from the retina. It's the continuous interaction of various computations in the visual cortex that stitch those different aspects together and culminate in the perception. Our brains are constantly working, synchronizing what we see, hear, smell, and touch into meaningful experiences in the moment-to-moment flow of the present. So, in order to create the illusion of motion in successive images, we need to get the timing of our intervals close to the speed at which our brains process the present. So, how fast is the present happening according to our brains? Well, we can get an idea by measuring how fast the images need to be changing for the illusion to work. Let's see if we can figure it out by repeating our experiment. Here's the sequence presented at a rate of one frame per two seconds with one second of black in between. At this rate of change with the blank space separating the images, there's no real motion perceptible. As we lessen the duration of blank space, a slight change in position becomes more apparent, and you start to get an inkling of a sense of motion between the disparate frames. One frame per second, two frames per second, four frames per second. Now we're starting to get a feeling of motion, but it's really not very smooth. We're still aware of the fact that we're looking at separate images. Let's speed up, eight frames per second, twelve frames per second. It looks like we're about there. At twenty-four frames per second, the motion looks even smoother. This is standard full-speed. So, the point at which we lose awareness of the intervals and begin to see apparent motion seems to kick in at around eight to twelve frames per second. This is in the neighborhood of what science has determined to be the general threshold of our awareness of seeing separate images. Generally speaking, we begin to lose that awareness at intervals of around 100 milliseconds per image, which is equal to a frame rate of around ten frames per second. As the frame rate increases, we lose awareness of the intervals completely and are all the more convinced of the reality of the illusion.
References (optional) Links 【Art & Design English- 01】What is Art? 【Art & Design English- 02】What is Art For? Discussion Questions (Art) How great is your interest in art? What’s the best art gallery you’ve been to? Do you like modern art? What do you think of installation art? Do you ever think a lot of art is not really art? Do you have a favorite artist? What kind of art do you like – paintings, sculpture, ceramics, etc.? What is art? Does art change the way you think or feel? Do you think anyone can be an artist or do you need a special talent? Do you think all children should study art at school? Do you think children should learn the history of art? Do you think a painting can really be worth a million (or more) dollars? Do you think today’s artists are as good as those from hundreds of years ago? What was the last painting/poster/piece of art you bought? Why did you buy it? Describe the pieces of artwork in your house. What kind of art is your country famous for? What kind of life do you think an artist’s is? Do you have any artistic talents? How would the world be different without artists? Discussion Questions (Design) How would you define design? How do you know if something is designed well? Do you think design is important? Why? Have you ever designed anything? What are some well-designed products? What are some poorly designed products? Are there any designers you admire? Have you done any interior design in your home? What are some examples of good design that you appreciate? Why? How does design influence our daily experiences and interactions with products and environments? Can you think of any iconic designs or designers that have made a significant impact on society? What are some key principles or elements of design? How does cultural and historical context influence design aesthetics? Can you describe a design project or process that you have been involved in or observed? How does user experience (UX) design contribute to the functionality and usability of products and services? What role does sustainability play in design? Share examples of environmentally conscious design practices. How can design be used to solve social and humanitarian challenges? What are some current trends in design that you find interesting? How does technology influence the field of design? Discuss the impact of digital tools and software. Can you think of any examples of design that have sparked controversy or provoked discussions? How can design be inclusive and accessible to people with diverse abilities and backgrounds? Can you share any examples of designs that evoke specific emotions or create a particular atmosphere? How does design differ across various disciplines, such as graphic design, industrial design, or interior design? What are some ethical considerations in design? Discuss the responsibility of designers towards users and society. Can you think of any design failures or instances where poor design affected the user experience? What lessons can be learned from them? How can design thinking be applied beyond traditional design fields to problem-solving and innovation? What skills and qualities do you think are essential for a successful career in design? How has technology influenced the field of graphic design in recent years? Can you think of any examples of design that successfully blend form and function? Explain why they are effective. How does cultural diversity influence design aesthetics and the portrayal of different cultures in design? What are some key considerations in designing user interfaces for mobile applications? Can you describe a design project that aims to address sustainability or environmental issues? How does typography contribute to the overall design and message of printed materials? What are some effective ways to gather user feedback during the design process? How can color psychology be utilized in design to evoke specific emotions or convey certain messages? Can you think of any examples where design played a crucial role in shaping a company’s brand identity? What are the main differences between designing for print media and designing for digital media? How can design be used to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities? Can you describe a design trend that you find intriguing? Why do you think it has gained popularity? How does packaging design influence consumer perception and purchasing decisions? What ethical considerations should designers keep in mind when creating advertisements or marketing materials? How has social media influenced the field of design and the way designers showcase their work? Can you think of any innovative design solutions that have improved people’s lives in developing countries? What are some challenges in designing for virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) experiences? How does design impact the gaming industry, particularly in terms of user interface and user experience? Can you describe a famous architectural design that has become an iconic landmark? What makes it significant? How do cultural symbols and icons influence design choices, especially in international contexts? Discussion Questions (Art Culture) How often do you go to art museums? Do you consider yourself to be artistic? What do you think about modern art paintings? How many forms of art can you name? What is your favorite form of art? Is graffiti art? Why or why not? What is the most famous statue in your country? Who is your favorite artist? Why do you like them so much? Do you think that art is important to society? Why? Have you ever tried drawing, painting, sculpting, or something else artistic? What is the most famous painting in your country? What is traditional art like in your culture? What country do you think is the most creative? Why is art so expensive? Do you think it should be more, or less, expensive? Do you have any artistic friends? What kinds of art do they create?

Scroll down to view the Simplified Chinese version (向下滚动查看简体中文版本)   Top 10 Cherry Blossom Spots in Tokyo Tokyo is Japan's capital, and most populated metropolis, and also boasts more cherry blossom-viewing hotspots than anywhere else in the country. Nestled amid its giant buildings and winding expressways are a plethora of parks, gardens, tree-lined lanes, and riverbanks that offer some of the best sakura experiences in all of Japan. Visitors from around the world flock to Tokyo each spring to take in the beautiful blossoms. In the average year, the peak of the Sakura season occurs for one week in early April. However, depending on temperatures in the preceding weeks, the peak can start in late March or last into mid-April. It is also worth mentioning that due to the variety of cherry trees found throughout the city, even if you are visiting for a few weeks on either side of this zone, you should still be able to find a few blossoms. With so many spots to choose from, we thought we'd make planning your perfect, petal-filled trip a little easier by giving a quick rundown of our Top 10 cherry blossom locations in Tokyo.

Number 10: Koishikawa Botanical Garden Belonging to the prestigious Tokyo University, Koishikawa Botanical Garden is home to thousands of varieties of trees and plants as well as a beautiful landscape garden. During spring it doesn't get as crowded as other popular Sakura spots around the city, making for a pleasant atmosphere for visitors to enjoy the blossoms.

Numer 9: The Meguro River The Meguro River is an attractive canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees and a plethora of shops and cafes in one of the capital's hippest neighborhoods. During peak season, the many bridges that span the waterway provide picturesque views of the river crowded with pink petals so don't forget to bring your camera.

Number 8: Koishikawa Korakuen Among Tokyo's prettiest traditional gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen is particularly famous for its weeping cherry trees, which take center stage in spring among the park's many other picturesque features.

Number 7: Asukayama Park This hilltop park in the north of the city has been popular as an atmospheric hanami spot since the Edo Period and still attracts a large number of cherry blossom lovers of all ages even now.

Number 6: Yoyogi Park One of the city's more well-known parks. Yoyogi sits across the street from the stylish Harajuku neighborhood and is directly next to the famous Meiji Shrine. This expansive park is a hotspot for hanami parties, having enough space for a lively atmosphere to prevail here throughout the season.

Number 5: Showa Kinenkoen With over a thousand trees, this huge, family-friendly park is located 30 minutes west of Tokyo. The abundant blossoms here typically bloom a few days later than those in central Tokyo, making the park popular with those who missed hanami downtown. Aside from the cherry blossoms, the park also boasts other beautiful flowers and a variety of facilities and amenities.

Number 4: Sumida Park During spring the walking paths along the shores of this picturesque river become lined with pink petals. Located only a short walk from the famous Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Sumida Park is an ideal place for visitors to take in views of the iconic Tokyo Skytree framed by cherry blossoms.

Number 3: Chi-dori-ga-fuchi One of the most photogenic sakura spots in the city, Chidorigafuchi consists of a path alongside the sakura-lined moat of the former Edo Castle just west of the Imperial Palace. For a fee, visitors can even rent a rowboat to paddle around in the old moat. This atmospheric area makes for a charming petal-filled stroll both during the day and also in the evening during nightly illuminations. Lastly, the nearby Yasukuni Shrine is home to hundreds more cherry trees, including Tokyo's representative tree, which the meteorological agency uses to determine the state of the sakura season for the entire city.

Number 2: Ueno Park Ueno Park is the most renowned party spot in all of Tokyo during the Sakura season and is a true hanami haven packed with visitors enjoying the festivities both in the upper section where the wide central walking path is located and also around Shinobazu Pond in the lower section. The park's paths are lined with hundreds of cherry trees, and it's recommended to get here early if you intend to get a place under one.

Number1: Shinjuku Gyoen This large, family-friendly park stands as a natural oasis in one of Tokyo's busiest districts. This peaceful park boasts over one thousand cherry trees which span a range of species and bloom at different times during the season, making Shinjuku Gyoen a great place to visit for blossom enthusiasts who are in town a little before or after peak season. One point to be aware of is that the park doesn't allow alcohol inside so it is not a good option for visitors intent on enjoying their hanami with some drinks. Nevertheless, with so many beautiful scenes and Sakura viewing opportunities throughout its vast and varied grounds, Shinjuku Gyoen takes the cake as our number one Sakura location in all of Tokyo. So there you have it, our top ten cherry blossom spots in Tokyo. Happy Hanami Sakura Festival! Simplified Chinese version 东京不寻常的动物咖啡馆：刺猬、水獭和龙猫 大家好。欢迎来到我们的频道。东京这几天一直在下雨，所以我们决定探索原宿的一些室内活动。在这里你可以找到一个可以和一些特殊动物玩耍的地方，比如龙猫、兔子、刺猬甚至水獭。这个地方叫哈利露台动物园，是的，我们就要去和一些龙猫玩了。那就让我们尝试一下吧。 东京以其多种多样的动物咖啡馆而闻名。动物咖啡馆热潮始于猫咖啡馆，但很快就扩展开来，现在我们可以选择有刺猬、小猪、水獭、龙猫、猫头鹰等的咖啡馆。在动物咖啡馆哈利，你可以和各种各样的动物玩耍。我们决定去原宿的咖啡馆，度过一个下雨的下午，和这些柔软的动物玩耍，更好地了解它们的个性。一进门，迎接你的是一只叫托斯卡的兔子，它在咖啡馆里自由地跳来跳去，享受着游客的陪伴。什么能真正吸引你的注意？水獭是不是盯着你看，希望你喂它们？我绝对愿意接受挑战。那么这家咖啡馆的目标是什么，为什么要创建它呢？[日语] 作为世界上第一家刺猬咖啡馆，第一家店开在六本木，我们希望你享受小动物的可爱。除了刺猬，还有很多动物。你想向我们介绍什么特定的动物？[日语] 我想向你们介绍所有的动物，但由于这家原宿露台店是一家水獭咖啡馆，所以必须是水獭。包括 2 月份出生的所有婴儿，共有 9 只水獭作为一个家庭生活。什么样的顾客会来 Harry Animal Cafe？[日语] 主要是 20 多岁和 30 多岁的年轻女性，但也有带着小孩的家庭来。而且在疫情之前，也有很多来自国外的人来到这里。Harry Animal Cafe 对未来的期望是什么？[日语] 我们希望为所有动物创造一个快乐的氛围，让它们可以快乐舒适地生活。[日语] 我们的情况很艰难，但在 Harry，我们有刺猬、水獭和水豚。那里生活着许多种类的动物。[日语] 所以当你再次来到日本时，我希望你能来 Harry 见见所有的动物。现在是和水獭玩耍的时候了。因为这是我第一次看到水獭，所以我很紧张，但我愿意接受挑战。咖啡馆外面是成年水獭的游泳池，你可以在那里喂它们，看它们玩耍。那么你觉得这次体验怎么样？我不得不说，一开始我有点害怕，因为不是每天都能和水獭和龙猫一起玩，它们特别可怕。但最后，我习惯了，我不得不说我很享受。真是一次很棒的体验。所以当你来东京时一定要尝试一下。 References (optional)
Cherry Blossom Sweets Links Sakura food and drinks Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast: When & Where To See Sakura in Japan National Cherry Blossom Festival, Washington DC Spring Festivals Around the World Discussion Questions (Cherry Blossom Festival in Japan) What is the Cherry Blossom Festival in Japan? When does the Cherry Blossom Festival usually take place in Japan? Why are cherry blossoms so important in Japanese culture? Where are some popular locations to view cherry blossoms in Japan? What is hanami? How is it related to the Cherry Blossom Festival? What are some traditional activities people do during the Cherry Blossom Festival? How long do cherry blossoms typically last? What colors are cherry blossoms? What do cherry blossoms symbolize in Japan? Do people have picnics under cherry blossoms during the festival? Are there any special foods or drinks associated with the Cherry Blossom Festival? Are there any traditional songs or dances performed during the festival? What is the significance of cherry blossoms in Japanese literature? Are there any historical events related to the Cherry Blossom Festival? How do Japanese people prepare for the Cherry Blossom Festival? What is the traditional clothing worn during the festival? Are there any variations of cherry blossoms that are different colors? How can tourists participate in the Cherry Blossom Festival in Japan? What other countries have a similar celebration of cherry blossoms? Are there any customs or etiquette rules to follow during the festival?
ESL Questions About Cherry Blossom Festival (Japan)

Scroll down to view the Simplified Chinese version (向下滚动查看简体中文版本)   Top 10 Cherry Blossom Spots in Tokyo Tokyo is Japan's capital, and most populated metropolis, and also boasts more cherry blossom-viewing hotspots than anywhere else in the country. Nestled amid its giant buildings and winding expressways are a plethora of parks, gardens, tree-lined lanes, and riverbanks that offer some of the best sakura experiences in all of Japan. Visitors from around the world flock to Tokyo each spring to take in the beautiful blossoms. In the average year, the peak of the Sakura season occurs for one week in early April. However, depending on temperatures in the preceding weeks, the peak can start in late March or last into mid-April. It is also worth mentioning that due to the variety of cherry trees found throughout the city, even if you are visiting for a few weeks on either side of this zone, you should still be able to find a few blossoms. With so many spots to choose from, we thought we'd make planning your perfect, petal-filled trip a little easier by giving a quick rundown of our Top 10 cherry blossom locations in Tokyo.

Number 10: Koishikawa Botanical Garden Belonging to the prestigious Tokyo University, Koishikawa Botanical Garden is home to thousands of varieties of trees and plants as well as a beautiful landscape garden. During spring it doesn't get as crowded as other popular Sakura spots around the city, making for a pleasant atmosphere for visitors to enjoy the blossoms.

Numer 9: The Meguro River The Meguro River is an attractive canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees and a plethora of shops and cafes in one of the capital's hippest neighborhoods. During peak season, the many bridges that span the waterway provide picturesque views of the river crowded with pink petals so don't forget to bring your camera.

Number 8: Koishikawa Korakuen Among Tokyo's prettiest traditional gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen is particularly famous for its weeping cherry trees, which take center stage in spring among the park's many other picturesque features.

Number 7: Asukayama Park This hilltop park in the north of the city has been popular as an atmospheric hanami spot since the Edo Period and still attracts a large number of cherry blossom lovers of all ages even now.

Number 6: Yoyogi Park One of the city's more well-known parks. Yoyogi sits across the street from the stylish Harajuku neighborhood and is directly next to the famous Meiji Shrine. This expansive park is a hotspot for hanami parties, having enough space for a lively atmosphere to prevail here throughout the season.

Number 5: Showa Kinenkoen With over a thousand trees, this huge, family-friendly park is located 30 minutes west of Tokyo. The abundant blossoms here typically bloom a few days later than those in central Tokyo, making the park popular with those who missed hanami downtown. Aside from the cherry blossoms, the park also boasts other beautiful flowers and a variety of facilities and amenities.

Number 4: Sumida Park During spring the walking paths along the shores of this picturesque river become lined with pink petals. Located only a short walk from the famous Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Sumida Park is an ideal place for visitors to take in views of the iconic Tokyo Skytree framed by cherry blossoms.

Number 3: Chi-dori-ga-fuchi One of the most photogenic sakura spots in the city, Chidorigafuchi consists of a path alongside the sakura-lined moat of the former Edo Castle just west of the Imperial Palace. For a fee, visitors can even rent a rowboat to paddle around in the old moat. This atmospheric area makes for a charming petal-filled stroll both during the day and also in the evening during nightly illuminations. Lastly, the nearby Yasukuni Shrine is home to hundreds more cherry trees, including Tokyo's representative tree, which the meteorological agency uses to determine the state of the sakura season for the entire city.

Number 2: Ueno Park Ueno Park is the most renowned party spot in all of Tokyo during the Sakura season and is a true hanami haven packed with visitors enjoying the festivities both in the upper section where the wide central walking path is located and also around Shinobazu Pond in the lower section. The park's paths are lined with hundreds of cherry trees, and it's recommended to get here early if you intend to get a place under one.

Number1: Shinjuku Gyoen This large, family-friendly park stands as a natural oasis in one of Tokyo's busiest districts. This peaceful park boasts over one thousand cherry trees which span a range of species and bloom at different times during the season, making Shinjuku Gyoen a great place to visit for blossom enthusiasts who are in town a little before or after peak season. One point to be aware of is that the park doesn't allow alcohol inside so it is not a good option for visitors intent on enjoying their hanami with some drinks. Nevertheless, with so many beautiful scenes and Sakura viewing opportunities throughout its vast and varied grounds, Shinjuku Gyoen takes the cake as our number one Sakura location in all of Tokyo. So there you have it, our top ten cherry blossom spots in Tokyo. Happy Hanami Sakura Festival! Simplified Chinese version 东京不寻常的动物咖啡馆：刺猬、水獭和龙猫 大家好。欢迎来到我们的频道。东京这几天一直在下雨，所以我们决定探索原宿的一些室内活动。在这里你可以找到一个可以和一些特殊动物玩耍的地方，比如龙猫、兔子、刺猬甚至水獭。这个地方叫哈利露台动物园，是的，我们就要去和一些龙猫玩了。那就让我们尝试一下吧。 东京以其多种多样的动物咖啡馆而闻名。动物咖啡馆热潮始于猫咖啡馆，但很快就扩展开来，现在我们可以选择有刺猬、小猪、水獭、龙猫、猫头鹰等的咖啡馆。在动物咖啡馆哈利，你可以和各种各样的动物玩耍。我们决定去原宿的咖啡馆，度过一个下雨的下午，和这些柔软的动物玩耍，更好地了解它们的个性。一进门，迎接你的是一只叫托斯卡的兔子，它在咖啡馆里自由地跳来跳去，享受着游客的陪伴。什么能真正吸引你的注意？水獭是不是盯着你看，希望你喂它们？我绝对愿意接受挑战。那么这家咖啡馆的目标是什么，为什么要创建它呢？[日语] 作为世界上第一家刺猬咖啡馆，第一家店开在六本木，我们希望你享受小动物的可爱。除了刺猬，还有很多动物。你想向我们介绍什么特定的动物？[日语] 我想向你们介绍所有的动物，但由于这家原宿露台店是一家水獭咖啡馆，所以必须是水獭。包括 2 月份出生的所有婴儿，共有 9 只水獭作为一个家庭生活。什么样的顾客会来 Harry Animal Cafe？[日语] 主要是 20 多岁和 30 多岁的年轻女性，但也有带着小孩的家庭来。而且在疫情之前，也有很多来自国外的人来到这里。Harry Animal Cafe 对未来的期望是什么？[日语] 我们希望为所有动物创造一个快乐的氛围，让它们可以快乐舒适地生活。[日语] 我们的情况很艰难，但在 Harry，我们有刺猬、水獭和水豚。那里生活着许多种类的动物。[日语] 所以当你再次来到日本时，我希望你能来 Harry 见见所有的动物。现在是和水獭玩耍的时候了。因为这是我第一次看到水獭，所以我很紧张，但我愿意接受挑战。咖啡馆外面是成年水獭的游泳池，你可以在那里喂它们，看它们玩耍。那么你觉得这次体验怎么样？我不得不说，一开始我有点害怕，因为不是每天都能和水獭和龙猫一起玩，它们特别可怕。但最后，我习惯了，我不得不说我很享受。真是一次很棒的体验。所以当你来东京时一定要尝试一下。 References (optional)
Cherry Blossom Sweets Links Sakura food and drinks Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast: When & Where To See Sakura in Japan National Cherry Blossom Festival, Washington DC Spring Festivals Around the World Discussion Questions (Cherry Blossom Festival in Japan) What is the Cherry Blossom Festival in Japan? When does the Cherry Blossom Festival usually take place in Japan? Why are cherry blossoms so important in Japanese culture? Where are some popular locations to view cherry blossoms in Japan? What is hanami? How is it related to the Cherry Blossom Festival? What are some traditional activities people do during the Cherry Blossom Festival? How long do cherry blossoms typically last? What colors are cherry blossoms? What do cherry blossoms symbolize in Japan? Do people have picnics under cherry blossoms during the festival? Are there any special foods or drinks associated with the Cherry Blossom Festival? Are there any traditional songs or dances performed during the festival? What is the significance of cherry blossoms in Japanese literature? Are there any historical events related to the Cherry Blossom Festival? How do Japanese people prepare for the Cherry Blossom Festival? What is the traditional clothing worn during the festival? Are there any variations of cherry blossoms that are different colors? How can tourists participate in the Cherry Blossom Festival in Japan? What other countries have a similar celebration of cherry blossoms? Are there any customs or etiquette rules to follow during the festival?
ESL Questions About Cherry Blossom Festival (Japan)

Scroll down to view the Simplified Chinese version (向下滚动查看简体中文版本)   Wedding Traditions Around The World Cultures throughout the world have their own unique ideas on how to say, "I do." We're taking you around the globe to show you how people celebrate their big day. The dollar dance, also known as the money or apron dance, is a tradition associated with countries all over, including Poland, Hungary, Nigeria, the Philippines, and Mexico. These videos feature a Mexican-American wedding and a Mexican-Filipino wedding. Money is tossed, handed, or pinned onto the couple while different guests take turns dancing with the newlyweds. The money is a great way to help with a little extra financial support and to let them know you wish them a life of prosperity. Jumping the broom refers to a wedding tradition in which a couple literally jumps over a broom. There's a misconception that it began during slavery in the United States, but it originated in Ghana and is still practiced there. The broom holds spiritual value and symbolizes the sweeping away of evils and past wrongs. Today, some African American couples include it in their ceremony as a tribute to tradition. In Greece, the koumbaro is similar to the best man. On the morning of the wedding, they help the groom prepare for the ceremony by helping them shave and get ready. It's a practice that signifies trust between close friends. In the days before the wedding, one or both of the fiancés are taken by their friends and family and covered in various substances like soot, feathers, food, and more. The tradition started as a way to ward off danger from supernatural forces. After being covered up, they're paraded around town while their friends make plenty of noise and make a scene for all to see. The Chinese tea ceremony is a wedding tradition that bonds two families together. While kneeling, the couple serves tea to their parents. Traditionally, the couple serves the groom's parents and elders in order of seniority, followed by the bride's family. This serves as a formal introduction, to show respect, and to express gratitude. In return, the couple usually receives lucky red envelopes with money or jewelry. In this pre-wedding ritual, turmeric paste is rubbed onto the couple's skin by friends and family. In India, turmeric can signify a lot of things, including purity, fertility, and good health. The paste also gives the couple a nice glow for their big day. The ceremony is usually accompanied by traditional songs and dances and is supposed to ease nerves. This German tradition has guests smashing porcelain before the wedding to wish the couple luck in their married life. The couple is responsible for cleaning up the shards to symbolize teamwork. The more shards of broken dishes, the better the luck the couple will have.
Simplified Chinese version 世界各地的婚礼传统是什么样的 世界各地的文化对于如何说“我愿意”都有自己独特的想法。 我们将带您环游世界，向您展示人们如何庆祝他们的大喜之日。 美元舞，也称为金钱舞或围裙舞， 是与波兰、匈牙利、尼日利亚、菲律宾和墨西哥等国家相关的传统。 这些视频展示了墨西哥裔美国人的婚礼和墨西哥裔菲律宾人的婚礼。 当不同的客人轮流与新婚夫妇跳舞时，钱被抛、递或钉在新婚夫妇身上。 金钱是一种很好的方式，可以提供一点额外的经济支持，并让他们知道你希望他们生活富足。 跳扫帚是指婚礼传统，其中一对夫妇实际上跳过一把扫帚。 有一种误解认为它始于美国的奴隶制时期，但它起源于加纳，至今仍在那里实行。 扫帚具有精神价值，象征着扫除邪恶和过去错误。 如今，一些非裔美国夫妇将其纳入婚礼仪式，以纪念传统。 在希腊，koumbaro 类似于伴郎。 在婚礼当天早上，他们帮助新郎准备婚礼仪式，帮他们刮胡子和准备。 这是一种象征亲密朋友之间信任的做法。 在婚礼前几天， 未婚夫或未婚妻中的一人会被他们的朋友和家人带走，身上会覆盖各种物质，如烟灰、羽毛、食物等。 这一传统最初是为了抵御超自然力量的威胁。 被覆盖后，他们会被带到镇上游行，而他们的朋友们会大吵大闹，让所有人都看到。 中国茶道是一种将两个家庭联系在一起的婚礼传统。 新人跪下时，向父母敬茶。 传统上，新人按资历顺序向新郎的父母和长辈敬茶，然后是新娘的家人。 这是一种正式的介绍，以表示尊重和感激。 作为回报，这对夫妇通常会收到装有钱或珠宝的红包。 在这个婚前仪式中，亲朋好友会将姜黄糊涂抹在这对夫妇的皮肤上。 在印度，姜黄可以象征很多东西，包括纯洁、生育和健康。 这种糊状物还能让这对夫妇在大喜之日容光焕发。 婚礼通常伴随着传统的歌舞，据说可以缓解紧张情绪。 根据德国的传统，宾客们会在婚礼前砸碎瓷器，祝愿这对夫妇婚姻幸福。 这对夫妇负责清理碎片，以象征团队合作。 破碎的盘子碎片越多，这对夫妇的运气就越好。 References (optional) Links 42 Fascinating Wedding Traditions From Around the World 15 Unusual Wedding Traditions From Across The World 11 wedding superstitions and traditions explained Top 10 Common Wedding Superstitions We got married on Friday 13th - in a cemetery 【Lifestyle English -13】Why Bother With Marriage? Discussion Questions (Weddings) (1) What springs to mind when you hear the word ‘weddings’?
(2) Are weddings important?
(3) What kind of weddings do you think are best?
(4) Do you wish you could go to more weddings?
(5) Why do many people, not like weddings?
(6) Do you think it’s easy or difficult to plan your own wedding?
(7) What’s the best and worst wedding you’ve ever been to?
(8) What are the best and worst things about weddings?
(9) Do you think weddings in other countries are better than those in your country?
(10) Do you think your wedding is the happiest day of your life? (11) Do you like weddings?
(12) What kind of wedding would you like (have liked)?
(13) Which celebrity wedding would you really like to go to?
(14) What do you think of royal weddings?
(15) What do people get married in your culture promise each other at a wedding?
(16) In your country, do people have to invite people they don’t like to their wedding?
(17) What is the best part of a wedding: the ceremony, the vows, or the reception?
(18) Do you think that one day, weddings will become a thing of the past?
(19) What do you think of alternative weddings such as underwater weddings or weddings on the wing of a flying airplane?
(20) What three adjectives would you use to describe weddings?

Scroll down to view the Simplified Chinese version (向下滚动查看简体中文版本)   Wedding Traditions Around The World Cultures throughout the world have their own unique ideas on how to say, "I do." We're taking you around the globe to show you how people celebrate their big day. The dollar dance, also known as the money or apron dance, is a tradition associated with countries all over, including Poland, Hungary, Nigeria, the Philippines, and Mexico. These videos feature a Mexican-American wedding and a Mexican-Filipino wedding. Money is tossed, handed, or pinned onto the couple while different guests take turns dancing with the newlyweds. The money is a great way to help with a little extra financial support and to let them know you wish them a life of prosperity. Jumping the broom refers to a wedding tradition in which a couple literally jumps over a broom. There's a misconception that it began during slavery in the United States, but it originated in Ghana and is still practiced there. The broom holds spiritual value and symbolizes the sweeping away of evils and past wrongs. Today, some African American couples include it in their ceremony as a tribute to tradition. In Greece, the koumbaro is similar to the best man. On the morning of the wedding, they help the groom prepare for the ceremony by helping them shave and get ready. It's a practice that signifies trust between close friends. In the days before the wedding, one or both of the fiancés are taken by their friends and family and covered in various substances like soot, feathers, food, and more. The tradition started as a way to ward off danger from supernatural forces. After being covered up, they're paraded around town while their friends make plenty of noise and make a scene for all to see. The Chinese tea ceremony is a wedding tradition that bonds two families together. While kneeling, the couple serves tea to their parents. Traditionally, the couple serves the groom's parents and elders in order of seniority, followed by the bride's family. This serves as a formal introduction, to show respect, and to express gratitude. In return, the couple usually receives lucky red envelopes with money or jewelry. In this pre-wedding ritual, turmeric paste is rubbed onto the couple's skin by friends and family. In India, turmeric can signify a lot of things, including purity, fertility, and good health. The paste also gives the couple a nice glow for their big day. The ceremony is usually accompanied by traditional songs and dances and is supposed to ease nerves. This German tradition has guests smashing porcelain before the wedding to wish the couple luck in their married life. The couple is responsible for cleaning up the shards to symbolize teamwork. The more shards of broken dishes, the better the luck the couple will have.
Simplified Chinese version 世界各地的婚礼传统是什么样的 世界各地的文化对于如何说“我愿意”都有自己独特的想法。 我们将带您环游世界，向您展示人们如何庆祝他们的大喜之日。 美元舞，也称为金钱舞或围裙舞， 是与波兰、匈牙利、尼日利亚、菲律宾和墨西哥等国家相关的传统。 这些视频展示了墨西哥裔美国人的婚礼和墨西哥裔菲律宾人的婚礼。 当不同的客人轮流与新婚夫妇跳舞时，钱被抛、递或钉在新婚夫妇身上。 金钱是一种很好的方式，可以提供一点额外的经济支持，并让他们知道你希望他们生活富足。 跳扫帚是指婚礼传统，其中一对夫妇实际上跳过一把扫帚。 有一种误解认为它始于美国的奴隶制时期，但它起源于加纳，至今仍在那里实行。 扫帚具有精神价值，象征着扫除邪恶和过去错误。 如今，一些非裔美国夫妇将其纳入婚礼仪式，以纪念传统。 在希腊，koumbaro 类似于伴郎。 在婚礼当天早上，他们帮助新郎准备婚礼仪式，帮他们刮胡子和准备。 这是一种象征亲密朋友之间信任的做法。 在婚礼前几天， 未婚夫或未婚妻中的一人会被他们的朋友和家人带走，身上会覆盖各种物质，如烟灰、羽毛、食物等。 这一传统最初是为了抵御超自然力量的威胁。 被覆盖后，他们会被带到镇上游行，而他们的朋友们会大吵大闹，让所有人都看到。 中国茶道是一种将两个家庭联系在一起的婚礼传统。 新人跪下时，向父母敬茶。 传统上，新人按资历顺序向新郎的父母和长辈敬茶，然后是新娘的家人。 这是一种正式的介绍，以表示尊重和感激。 作为回报，这对夫妇通常会收到装有钱或珠宝的红包。 在这个婚前仪式中，亲朋好友会将姜黄糊涂抹在这对夫妇的皮肤上。 在印度，姜黄可以象征很多东西，包括纯洁、生育和健康。 这种糊状物还能让这对夫妇在大喜之日容光焕发。 婚礼通常伴随着传统的歌舞，据说可以缓解紧张情绪。 根据德国的传统，宾客们会在婚礼前砸碎瓷器，祝愿这对夫妇婚姻幸福。 这对夫妇负责清理碎片，以象征团队合作。 破碎的盘子碎片越多，这对夫妇的运气就越好。 References (optional) Links 42 Fascinating Wedding Traditions From Around the World 15 Unusual Wedding Traditions From Across The World 11 wedding superstitions and traditions explained Top 10 Common Wedding Superstitions We got married on Friday 13th - in a cemetery 【Lifestyle English -13】Why Bother With Marriage? Discussion Questions (Weddings) (1) What springs to mind when you hear the word ‘weddings’?
(2) Are weddings important?
(3) What kind of weddings do you think are best?
(4) Do you wish you could go to more weddings?
(5) Why do many people, not like weddings?
(6) Do you think it’s easy or difficult to plan your own wedding?
(7) What’s the best and worst wedding you’ve ever been to?
(8) What are the best and worst things about weddings?
(9) Do you think weddings in other countries are better than those in your country?
(10) Do you think your wedding is the happiest day of your life? (11) Do you like weddings?
(12) What kind of wedding would you like (have liked)?
(13) Which celebrity wedding would you really like to go to?
(14) What do you think of royal weddings?
(15) What do people get married in your culture promise each other at a wedding?
(16) In your country, do people have to invite people they don’t like to their wedding?
(17) What is the best part of a wedding: the ceremony, the vows, or the reception?
(18) Do you think that one day, weddings will become a thing of the past?
(19) What do you think of alternative weddings such as underwater weddings or weddings on the wing of a flying airplane?
(20) What three adjectives would you use to describe weddings?

Scroll down to view the Simplified Chinese version (向下滚动查看简体中文版本) Autumn Leaf Viewing In Japan Just as how the Japanese enjoy viewing cherry blossoms in the spring, the changing color of the Autumn leaves, known as Koyo, is an event that draws crowds all across Japan. Today we’re in Kyushu’s least touristy prefecture, Saga, at Kunenan, a historical Japanese residence that only opens its doors to the public for 9 days in November, to allow visitors to enjoy the autumn foliage. The Kunen-an residence was originally owned by a wealthy businessman in the early 1900s and gets its name from the fact that it took 9 years to build the majestic garden that draws visitors, even to this day. Now, Saga Prefecture owns and preserves the land, citing it as an important cultural asset to Saga Prefecture. Visitors are welcome to roam the garden of the residence and take a look inside the traditional structure, admiring the sturdy construction of the straw-thatched roof, the mud walls, and the bamboo lattices. All while enjoying the rich natural colors of the autumn garden. The site is so well preserved that walking through it, you almost feel as if you’ve been transported back in time, or you’re on a movie set of some kind. Either way, it feels absolutely surreal to be there in person. The tradition of autumn leaf viewing dates back to the Heian period, over 1000 years ago, when the nobles would go on excursions to the mountains, and gather colored leaves. Now, autumn leaf viewing is an event enjoyed by families, friends, and couples, with popular sites often holding fall festivals to coincide with the changing colors. Shrines and temples are often popular places to visit as well, the beautiful nature is often interpreted as a sign that the gods at the shrine are showing their presence. I always took the autumn leaves for granted when I lived in Canada, funny considering our flag is the red maple leaf. One of the things I love about Japan is its sensitivity to the changing seasons and its appreciation for nature. Learning to appreciate nature’s beauty helped me recognize the natural beauty in my home country as well. Another popular way to enjoy the changing autumn leaves in Japan is by illumination after dark. During the peak color-changing season, some shrines and temples will light up the autumn leaves, creating allowing them to glow vividly against the night sky. We decided to visit Daikouzenji, in Saga Prefecture, a shrine where visitors can light spiritual candles and pray for the safety of their home and loved ones. Daikouzenji is built on a hill, making it a prime spot for autumn leaf viewing. It’s also home to a luscious botanical garden, all of which is illuminated by bright lights after sundown, creating a romantic and whimsical atmosphere that’s very popular with couples. A popular fall festival dish, and one I wholeheartedly recommend, is zenzai. A sweet red bean soup, with chewy balls of mochi rice cake in it. Fall is not a busy season for tourism in Japan, so flights are usually much cheaper during this time of year, but if you time your trip right, you will be rewarded with some of the most gorgeous scenery Japan has to offer.
Simplified Chinese version 日本的秋叶观赏 就像日本人在春天欣赏樱花一样，秋叶变色（称为红叶）是日本各地吸引人群的活动。 今天，我们来到了九州岛最不受欢迎的县佐贺县，九年庵是一座历史悠久的日本住宅，仅在 11 月向公众开放 9 天，让游客欣赏秋叶。 九年庵最初由一位富商于 20 世纪初拥有，它的名字源于花了 9 年时间建造的宏伟花园，至今仍吸引着游客。 现在，佐贺县拥有并保护着这片土地，称其为佐贺县的重要文化资产。 游客可以漫步在住宅的花园中，参观传统建筑内部，欣赏坚固的茅草屋顶、泥墙和竹格子。 同时，您还可以欣赏秋天花园中丰富的自然色彩。 这个地方保存得非常好，走在其中，您几乎会感觉自己回到了过去，或者置身于某种电影场景中。 无论如何，亲临现场感觉绝对超现实。 赏秋叶的传统可以追溯到 1000 多年前的平安时代，当时贵族们会去山上远足，采集彩色的树叶。 现在，赏秋叶是家庭、朋友和情侣享受的活动，热门景点经常举办秋季节日来配合色彩的变化。 神社和寺庙通常也是受欢迎的游览地点，美丽的自然风光通常被解释为神社的神灵正在展示他们的存在的标志。 当我住在加拿大时，我总是把秋叶视为理所当然，有趣的是，我们的国旗是红色的枫叶。 我喜欢日本的一件事是它对季节变化的敏感和对自然的欣赏。 学会欣赏大自然之美也让我认识到了祖国的自然之美。 在日本欣赏秋叶变幻的另一种流行方式是天黑后点亮灯光。 在秋叶变色的高峰期，一些神社和寺庙会点亮秋叶，让它们在夜空中闪闪发光。 我们决定去佐贺县的大光禅寺，游客可以在那里点燃精神蜡烛，为家人和亲人的安全祈祷。 大光禅寺建在山上，是观赏秋叶的最佳地点。 这里还有一个郁郁葱葱的植物园，日落后，所有的植物园都被明亮的灯光照亮，营造出一种浪漫而奇妙的氛围，深受情侣的欢迎。 一种流行的秋季节日菜肴，也是我全心全意推荐的菜肴，是善哉。 一种甜甜的红豆汤，里面有嚼劲十足的年糕球。 秋季不是日本的旅游旺季，因此这段时间的机票通常要便宜得多，但如果您安排好旅行时间，您将欣赏到日本最美丽的风景。
Top 10 Autumn Color Spots in Japan Discussion Questions (Autumn/ Fall) 1 – What are 5 words that you would use to describe fall/autumn? 2 – In which months of the year is the fall or autumn season in your country? 3 – How is the weather during fall different from other seasons of the year? 4 – What is something that you look forward to about fall? What happens at this time? 5 – Are there dead leaves around your home during fall? How do they get cleaned up? 6 – What is something interesting about animals that happens during the fall? 7 – Does your country celebrate Halloween or any other special days in this season? 8 – Is there anything that you dislike about fall? Why does it bother you? 9 – What are your plans for this coming fall? Do you want to travel to any places? 10 – Are there any special smells or scents that remind you of fall? Where are they from? 11 – What are the temperatures like during fall in your country? Is it comfortable outside? 12 – Do you like to get out in nature in the fall? Where do you go and what do you do there? 13 – What clothing do you usually wear in this season? What footwear do you wear? 14 – Which fruits and vegetables are in season at this time of the year in your country? 15 – What is your favorite way to spend weekends in the fall? How often do you get to do this? 16 – Are there any food or drinks that you look forward to enjoying in this season? 17 – What is something that a lot of people do in the fall in your hometown? Why? 18 – Does your schedule change or do you have a different daily routine in the fall? How? 19 – Can you think of a happy fall memory? Who were you with and what happened? 20 – If you had to describe fall with a sentence, what would that sentence be? 21 – What colors do you usually see around your home in fall? What makes these colors? 22 – Do you watch a lot of television during fall? What are some things you like to watch? 23 – What activities do you think that children enjoy doing the most in fall? Why? 24 – Do you do anything in fall to prepare for the coming winter? Why do you do this? 25 – What is something that you hope to do this fall that you have never done before?

Scroll down to view the Simplified Chinese version (向下滚动查看简体中文版本) Autumn Leaf Viewing In Japan Just as how the Japanese enjoy viewing cherry blossoms in the spring, the changing color of the Autumn leaves, known as Koyo, is an event that draws crowds all across Japan. Today we’re in Kyushu’s least touristy prefecture, Saga, at Kunenan, a historical Japanese residence that only opens its doors to the public for 9 days in November, to allow visitors to enjoy the autumn foliage. The Kunen-an residence was originally owned by a wealthy businessman in the early 1900s and gets its name from the fact that it took 9 years to build the majestic garden that draws visitors, even to this day. Now, Saga Prefecture owns and preserves the land, citing it as an important cultural asset to Saga Prefecture. Visitors are welcome to roam the garden of the residence and take a look inside the traditional structure, admiring the sturdy construction of the straw-thatched roof, the mud walls, and the bamboo lattices. All while enjoying the rich natural colors of the autumn garden. The site is so well preserved that walking through it, you almost feel as if you’ve been transported back in time, or you’re on a movie set of some kind. Either way, it feels absolutely surreal to be there in person. The tradition of autumn leaf viewing dates back to the Heian period, over 1000 years ago, when the nobles would go on excursions to the mountains, and gather colored leaves. Now, autumn leaf viewing is an event enjoyed by families, friends, and couples, with popular sites often holding fall festivals to coincide with the changing colors. Shrines and temples are often popular places to visit as well, the beautiful nature is often interpreted as a sign that the gods at the shrine are showing their presence. I always took the autumn leaves for granted when I lived in Canada, funny considering our flag is the red maple leaf. One of the things I love about Japan is its sensitivity to the changing seasons and its appreciation for nature. Learning to appreciate nature’s beauty helped me recognize the natural beauty in my home country as well. Another popular way to enjoy the changing autumn leaves in Japan is by illumination after dark. During the peak color-changing season, some shrines and temples will light up the autumn leaves, creating allowing them to glow vividly against the night sky. We decided to visit Daikouzenji, in Saga Prefecture, a shrine where visitors can light spiritual candles and pray for the safety of their home and loved ones. Daikouzenji is built on a hill, making it a prime spot for autumn leaf viewing. It’s also home to a luscious botanical garden, all of which is illuminated by bright lights after sundown, creating a romantic and whimsical atmosphere that’s very popular with couples. A popular fall festival dish, and one I wholeheartedly recommend, is zenzai. A sweet red bean soup, with chewy balls of mochi rice cake in it. Fall is not a busy season for tourism in Japan, so flights are usually much cheaper during this time of year, but if you time your trip right, you will be rewarded with some of the most gorgeous scenery Japan has to offer.
Simplified Chinese version 日本的秋叶观赏 就像日本人在春天欣赏樱花一样，秋叶变色（称为红叶）是日本各地吸引人群的活动。 今天，我们来到了九州岛最不受欢迎的县佐贺县，九年庵是一座历史悠久的日本住宅，仅在 11 月向公众开放 9 天，让游客欣赏秋叶。 九年庵最初由一位富商于 20 世纪初拥有，它的名字源于花了 9 年时间建造的宏伟花园，至今仍吸引着游客。 现在，佐贺县拥有并保护着这片土地，称其为佐贺县的重要文化资产。 游客可以漫步在住宅的花园中，参观传统建筑内部，欣赏坚固的茅草屋顶、泥墙和竹格子。 同时，您还可以欣赏秋天花园中丰富的自然色彩。 这个地方保存得非常好，走在其中，您几乎会感觉自己回到了过去，或者置身于某种电影场景中。 无论如何，亲临现场感觉绝对超现实。 赏秋叶的传统可以追溯到 1000 多年前的平安时代，当时贵族们会去山上远足，采集彩色的树叶。 现在，赏秋叶是家庭、朋友和情侣享受的活动，热门景点经常举办秋季节日来配合色彩的变化。 神社和寺庙通常也是受欢迎的游览地点，美丽的自然风光通常被解释为神社的神灵正在展示他们的存在的标志。 当我住在加拿大时，我总是把秋叶视为理所当然，有趣的是，我们的国旗是红色的枫叶。 我喜欢日本的一件事是它对季节变化的敏感和对自然的欣赏。 学会欣赏大自然之美也让我认识到了祖国的自然之美。 在日本欣赏秋叶变幻的另一种流行方式是天黑后点亮灯光。 在秋叶变色的高峰期，一些神社和寺庙会点亮秋叶，让它们在夜空中闪闪发光。 我们决定去佐贺县的大光禅寺，游客可以在那里点燃精神蜡烛，为家人和亲人的安全祈祷。 大光禅寺建在山上，是观赏秋叶的最佳地点。 这里还有一个郁郁葱葱的植物园，日落后，所有的植物园都被明亮的灯光照亮，营造出一种浪漫而奇妙的氛围，深受情侣的欢迎。 一种流行的秋季节日菜肴，也是我全心全意推荐的菜肴，是善哉。 一种甜甜的红豆汤，里面有嚼劲十足的年糕球。 秋季不是日本的旅游旺季，因此这段时间的机票通常要便宜得多，但如果您安排好旅行时间，您将欣赏到日本最美丽的风景。
Top 10 Autumn Color Spots in Japan Discussion Questions (Autumn/ Fall) 1 – What are 5 words that you would use to describe fall/autumn? 2 – In which months of the year is the fall or autumn season in your country? 3 – How is the weather during fall different from other seasons of the year? 4 – What is something that you look forward to about fall? What happens at this time? 5 – Are there dead leaves around your home during fall? How do they get cleaned up? 6 – What is something interesting about animals that happens during the fall? 7 – Does your country celebrate Halloween or any other special days in this season? 8 – Is there anything that you dislike about fall? Why does it bother you? 9 – What are your plans for this coming fall? Do you want to travel to any places? 10 – Are there any special smells or scents that remind you of fall? Where are they from? 11 – What are the temperatures like during fall in your country? Is it comfortable outside? 12 – Do you like to get out in nature in the fall? Where do you go and what do you do there? 13 – What clothing do you usually wear in this season? What footwear do you wear? 14 – Which fruits and vegetables are in season at this time of the year in your country? 15 – What is your favorite way to spend weekends in the fall? How often do you get to do this? 16 – Are there any food or drinks that you look forward to enjoying in this season? 17 – What is something that a lot of people do in the fall in your hometown? Why? 18 – Does your schedule change or do you have a different daily routine in the fall? How? 19 – Can you think of a happy fall memory? Who were you with and what happened? 20 – If you had to describe fall with a sentence, what would that sentence be? 21 – What colors do you usually see around your home in fall? What makes these colors? 22 – Do you watch a lot of television during fall? What are some things you like to watch? 23 – What activities do you think that children enjoy doing the most in fall? Why? 24 – Do you do anything in fall to prepare for the coming winter? Why do you do this? 25 – What is something that you hope to do this fall that you have never done before?