大学受験対策｜英語 長文読解問題48 難易度：★☆☆☆☆

Every morning, Kenji leaves his house at 7:30 a.m. to walk to school. His journey takes about 20 minutes, and he always takes the same route through his quiet neighborhood. Along the way, he passes a bakery, a small park, and a row of houses where he often sees the same people watering their plants or walking their dogs. Kenji enjoys this time alone, as it gives him a chance to think about the day ahead.

One rainy Tuesday morning, something unusual happened. As he was walking near the park, he noticed a younger boy standing under a tree, holding a broken umbrella. The boy looked cold and worried. Kenji stopped and asked if he was okay. The boy explained that he was new to the neighborhood and didn’t know the way to his elementary school. His umbrella had broken in the wind, and he had no idea what to do.

Kenji smiled and offered to walk the boy to his school, even though it meant being late for his first class. On the way, they talked about their favorite foods and TV shows. When they reached the school gate, the boy bowed and thanked Kenji again and again.

Later that day, Kenji’s teacher asked why he was late. Kenji explained the situation, expecting to be scolded. But instead, the teacher nodded and said, “Helping someone in need is never the wrong choice.”

Since that day, Kenji’s walk to school has felt different. He still walks alone, but he feels more connected to the people around him—and more confident in doing the right thing, even when it’s difficult.

Q1. How long does Kenji’s usual walk to school take?

1. Nearly an hour because he stops for breakfast.
2. Just five minutes since he lives next door.
3. Thirty minutes if traffic lights delay him often.
4. About twenty minutes, following his regular neighborhood route.

Q2. Why was the younger boy standing under the tree?

1. He waited for Kenji to bring forgotten homework.
2. His umbrella broke, and he felt completely lost.
3. He was hiding from friends playing a prank.
4. He rested after finishing early morning soccer practice.

Q3. Which statement is NOT true according to the story?

1. The teacher agreed that helping others justifies being late.
2. Kenji usually cycles to school instead of walking there.
3. Kenji discussed favorite foods during the rainy morning walk.
4. The younger boy was new and unfamiliar with directions.