Hachi: A Dog’s Tale | Unit 18.1 | English

A. Vocabulary: Definitions from the Text

Match the definitions with the appropriate words from the text:

B. True or False

C. Comprehension Questions

a. What is the name of the dog in the movie?

➡ The name of the dog is Hachi.

b. Who directed the movie?

➡ The movie was directed by Lasse Hallström.

c. How was the relationship between the dog and his master?

➡ The relationship between Hachi and his master, Parker, was one of deep emotional attachment, unwavering loyalty, and mutual love.

d. Why was a statue of the dog made?

➡ A statue was erected in Hachi’s honor to commemorate his unparalleled loyalty and devotion to his master.

e. Write any two weaknesses of the film.

Two possible weaknesses of the film are:

• Some viewers may find the depiction of affection between Parker and his wife overly sentimental.
• The symbolism of the number “8” on Hachi’s collar may be perceived as forced or unnecessary by certain audiences.

f. What aspects of the movie touch the hearts of the audience?

➡ The unbreakable bond between Hachi and Parker, particularly Hachi’s continued wait for his deceased master, evokes deep emotions and empathy from the audience.

D. Discussion Prompt

If you had the opportunity to ask the screenwriter a question, what would you ask?

• What inspired you to adapt Hachiko’s real-life story into a screenplay?
• How did you ensure the accurate portrayal of Hachi’s loyalty and emotional depth?
• What challenges did you face in presenting the emotional bond between Parker and Hachi on screen?
• How did you aim to reflect values such as marriage and family in the storyline?
• Why were black and white visuals used to represent Hachi’s perspective, and what significance did this hold?

Grammar I

A. Sentence Reordering

Put the words in the correct order to form meaningful questions:

1. How did you feel on the plane?
2. What are the kids doing?
3. Why didn’t you phone me?
4. What did he find on the beach?
5. What do your parents have for breakfast?
6. What will the weather be like tomorrow?
7. Did they have a nice time?
8. Was your hotel near the beach?
9. Has Rita ever visited Italy?
10. Have you ever gone fishing?

B. Question Formation in Given Situations

Show Questions for Situations (a-h)

a. Would you like to go to a movie?

b. Do you know where Simran lives?

c. Would you like to come to my home?

d. May I take this seat on the bus?

e. Have you seen my pet dog? / Do you know where my pet dog is?

f. How many books do you have, Bharat?

g. Does your father cook every day or once a week?

h. What is the weather forecast for tomorrow, teacher?

C. Conversation Completion

Pristine: Where do you live?

Mr. Waiba: I live in Dhadingbensi.

Mr. Waiba: How old are you?

Pristine: I am sixteen.

Pristine: Did you go to school?

Mr. Waiba: Yes, I went to school.

Mr. Waiba: What are your interests or hobbies?

Pristine: My interests? I don’t have any really.

Mr. Waiba: What is the name of your school?

Pristine: It’s Neelakantha Secondary School.

Pristine: Is there anything you dislike about your school?

Mr. Waiba: Nothing. I like everything about my school.

Writing I: Film Review

Film Review: Hachi – A Dog’s Tale

Directed by: Lasse Hallström

Genre: Drama / Family

Running Time: 93 minutes

Starring: Richard Gere, Joan Allen, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa

Review:

Hachi: A Dog’s Tale is a profoundly moving film based on the true story of an Akita dog named Hachiko from Japan. The narrative follows university professor Parker Wilson, who discovers an abandoned dog at a train station and brings him home. A powerful emotional bond forms between them.

After Parker’s sudden passing, Hachi demonstrates unparalleled loyalty and love by continuing to wait for him at the same train station every day for nearly ten years. The film masterfully explores themes of unconditional love, friendship, and devotion.

The direction and cinematography are exquisite, capturing both the warmth of family life and the heartbreak of loss. Richard Gere delivers a subtle and deeply affecting performance. While some viewers may find certain scenes sentimental or the pacing slow, the film’s emotional impact is undeniably powerful.

Conclusion:

This film is a superb choice for family viewing and holds particular resonance for dog lovers. It imparts valuable lessons about love, patience, and loyalty.