Day 4｜筆者の立場（賛成・反対・中立）を見抜く
【メイン課題】
以下の英文を 2分〜3分以内 に読みましょう。
英文：
In recent years, many schools around the world have started using tablets and laptops in the classroom instead of traditional textbooks. Supporters of this change argue that digital devices make learning more interactive and engaging. Students can watch educational videos, use learning apps, and access up-to-date information instantly. Digital textbooks are also lighter and cheaper in the long run compared to printed books.
Critics, however, point out several problems with relying too heavily on digital devices in education. Research has shown that excessive screen time can cause eye strain, headaches, and sleep problems in young people. There is also concern that students may become distracted by games, social media, and other non-educational content during class. Furthermore, schools in low-income areas may not have the budget to provide devices for all students, creating an unequal learning environment.
While both sides raise valid points, the most effective approach is likely a balanced one. Schools should use digital tools to enhance learning while still maintaining some traditional methods. Teachers need proper training to integrate technology meaningfully into their lessons. Above all, the focus should remain on the quality of education rather than the medium through which it is delivered.
設問：
（1）筆者の立場は次のどれか。
a. デジタル機器の導入に賛成
b. デジタル機器の導入に反対
c. どちらとも言えない中立的な立場で、バランスが重要だと主張
（2）賛成派の主張と反対派の主張をそれぞれ2つずつ日本語で挙げなさい。
（3）本文の内容と一致しないものを選びなさい。
a. デジタル教科書は長期的には印刷教科書より安い
b. 過度なスクリーン時間は健康上の問題を引き起こしうる
c. 全ての学校にデジタル機器を導入する予算がある
模範解答を見る ▼
【模範解答】
各段落の要点：
– 第1段落：デジタル機器導入の賛成意見（利点の紹介）
– 第2段落：反対意見（問題点の指摘）
– 第3段落：筆者の結論（バランスの取れたアプローチが最善）
設問の解答：
（1）正解：c
– 第3段落 “While both sides raise valid points, the most effective approach is likely a balanced one.” が根拠。筆者はどちらか一方を支持するのではなく、バランスを取ることを主張している。
（2）
– 賛成派：①学習がインタラクティブで魅力的になる ②デジタル教科書は軽く、長期的には安い
– 反対派：①過度なスクリーン時間が目の疲れや頭痛を引き起こす ②授業中にゲームやSNSで気が散る可能性がある
（3）正解：c
– a：本文 “cheaper in the long run” と一致 → 正しい
– b：本文 “excessive screen time can cause eye strain, headaches, and sleep problems” と一致 → 正しい
– c：本文は “schools in low-income areas may not have the budget” と述べている → 一致しない
ポイント（速読のコツ④）：
– 筆者の立場を見抜くには 最終段落に注目 しよう。賛成と反対の両方を述べた後、最終段落で筆者自身の意見を述べるパターンが非常に多い。”While both sides …” “The most effective approach is …” “In my view …” などの表現が筆者の立場の合図。
【練習問題】以下の英文を2分〜3分以内に読み、設問に答えなさい。
英文：
Some educators believe that homework is essential for reinforcing what students learn in class. They argue that regular assignments help students develop discipline and time management skills. Homework also gives parents an opportunity to be involved in their children’s education and understand what they are studying.
Others strongly disagree, claiming that too much homework puts unnecessary stress on students. After spending six or more hours at school, children need time to relax, play, and spend time with their families. Research in Finland, where students receive very little homework, shows that less homework does not necessarily lead to lower academic performance.
The debate over homework is unlikely to be resolved anytime soon. What seems clear, however, is that the quality of homework matters more than the quantity. Assignments should be meaningful and directly connected to classroom learning, rather than repetitive exercises that add little value.
設問：
（1）筆者の立場を答えなさい（賛成・反対・中立のどれか、根拠とともに）。
（2）文章全体の主張を日本語1文でまとめなさい。
練習問題の解答を見る ▼
【練習問題 解答】
設問の解答：
（1）中立的な立場。最終段落で “The debate … is unlikely to be resolved anytime soon” と述べつつ、宿題の「量より質」が重要だと主張している。どちらか一方を完全に支持していない。
（2）宿題の賛否には両方の根拠があるが、重要なのは量ではなく、授業と直結した意味のある宿題を出すことである。