Notes:
field day 運動会；
compete 競争する；
grade 学年
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I went to a field day (sports day) at an elementary school last Saturday. I like the idea of making two teams in one school because everyone is competing. The children are either taking part in an activity or cheering for their team. Each grade takes part in three or four activities, and there are some big games for everyone in the school. Some of them are unique to Japan like the giant ball roll. The music helps to keep up the excitement throughout the day. In the end, everyone has a good time whether their team wins or loses.  (by Prof. Douglas Jarrell)

Notes:
rev up an engine エンジンをふかす；
cat-and-mouse game イタチゴッコ
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I heard the sound of a Japanese summer late last night. It got louder and louder as it came towards me. Someone was revving up the engine of their motorcycle as they were riding. Luckily, there was only one rider, so the noise came and went quickly. When there is a large gang, the noise goes on much longer. Motorcycle gangs in Japan like to drive through the streets slowly and make as much noise as possible. They often play a cat-and-mouse game with the police. (by Prof. Douglas Jarrell)