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English for Construction Английский язык для строительства. Учебно-методическое пособие

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time, e-mail was used by the US Army, defense contractors and research universities in the early 70s. Then it became available to university communities as well. By the 1980s, scientists were already actively using e-mail for professional communication. In the 1990s, a real boom in the use of e-mail and computer networks began, and, according to experts, in the mid-90s, more than 30 million people around the world were actively using this technology.
Today, e-mail and its analogues have become a very effective means of sending messages around the world using computers. To do this, the user needs only a terminal (for example, a personal computer), a stable telephone line and a modem that converts digital signals into text. In order for the sender and recipient to use e-mail anywhere, they need access to the mailbox, for which they receive a special number and password to ensure confidentiality.
Nowadays, e-mail is fast, accessible and reliable. It allows us to send large amounts of information to various users and receive messages anytime and anywhere. A regular e-mail address looks something like this. The left part of the address, before the @ symbol, is the user ID, which is selected as a personal descriptor. The right part is called the domain and represents the identifier of the computer receiving or delivering messages.
An e-mail usually consists of a header and a main message. Its structure includes elements such as subject, date, information about the author and recipient. The main communication is similar to an ordinary letter, but shorter. When writing e-mails, it is recommended to use short phrases, avoid foreign words, metaphors and scientific terms, and do not use bold font. Abbreviations such as BTW (by the way), IMHO (in my humble opinion), RQST (request), MSG (message) and many others are widely used in electronic communications.
Exercise 4. Rewrite the letter, changing the phrases in bold with more suitable ones for e-mail correspondence. Make the message shorter.
Dear Mr. Black,
Your personal assistant has informed me today that your company is now ready to get our delivery as fast as possible. Though the negotiations were too long and time-consuming, I am glad to in­form you that we have come to a positive decision. Next week, you will be informed about the 1st
shipment by an e-mail message. We hope we will be able to solve all the issues at once. I am looking forward to hear from you soon.
Sincerely yours, Patrick O’Hara
Exercise 5. Complete the sentences with the enlisted words.
forward inbox drafts outbox address book
new msg send and receive send items reply capital-small-at-dot
1. My address is Woody@gmail.com, that’s ________W- o-o-d-y _______ gmail ______
com.
2. Do you need your ________ to add other e-mail addresses?
3. This is my ________ where I store incoming messages.
4. Be careful not to ________ a message otherwise it will be received by another person.
5. Now, with “________” you are able to make a new letter.
6. If you press ________, you will connect to the Internet.
7. We can look at ________to read new mails we have got.
8. Before being sent, the e-mails messages are stored in the ________.
9. He needs to answer to the e-mail, so he will apply ________.
10. You have to finish typing that message later, so you can store it in ________.
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Exercise 6. Match the explanations with the following terms.
1) bcc a) e-mail message storage
2) bandwidth b) to pass along an e-mail to another address
3) attachment c) a complicated and unclear message
4) a bounce message d) quotation applied to the signature
5) mailbox e) an automated message from an e-mail system
6) to forward an e-mail f) an angry and emotional message
7) sig quote g) blind carbon copy
8) spam h) quantity of information which can be sent
9) a flam i) unsolicited messages
10) burble message j) a file applied to the message
Exercise 7. Find the match.
1) E-business
2) T-commerce
3) C2B
4) FYI
5) MYOB
6) SPAM
7) LOL
a) electronic business
8) TIA
b) economic business b) thanks in advance a) technical commerce
9) IMHO
b) TV commerce b) in main host organisation a) customer to business
10) OTL
b) connection to business b) only treat legal a) fact your interest
11) HSIK
b) for your information b) humble study in keep a) my own business
12) ASAP
b) mind your own business b) as soon as possible a) multiple unsolicited messages
13) IOW
b) spoiled addled meat b) I oppose work a) League of Legends
14) BBL
b) lots of laughs b) be back later
a) talk in accordance
a) in my humble opinion
a) over the limit
a) how should I know
a) as applied
a) in other words
a) basic business laws
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UNIT 5
BUSINESS ETHICS
Exercise 1. Answer the following questions by yourself, then discuss them with other students:
1. Is it better to avoid conducting business in your own country because of the complexities
that occur across national borders?
2. Is ethics a philosophical issue, not a business one?
3. Is keeping a code of ethics in business like keeping wedding vows?
4. Is it better not to think about ethics when you are making a business deal?
5. Does the International business ethics mean an important subject to you?
6. Should all businesses be required to follow rules of ethical gift giving behaviour?
Exercise 2. Before reading the text, answer the following questions:
1. What are the areas of special concern when talking about managerial ethics?
2. How many areas of business ethics do you know?
3. What do you think of the relationship of the firm to the employee? Explain your point.
4. What should be the relationship of the employee to the firm?
5. What can you say about the relationship of the firm to other economic units?
Exercise 3. Name the following text and make up 5 questions to it.
The management ethics realm encompasses a vast array of considerations, particularly in regard to how organisations treat their employees. Issues such as hiring practices, dismissals, compensation, and the creation of suitable working conditions all fall under this umbrella. A manager’s ethical compass comes into play when making decisions that directly impact the lives and well-being of their workers.
Fairness and impartiality are essential ethical considerations in the workplace.
It is considered to be a serious ethical violation when firing the employees on the ground of their religious beliefs or personal characteristics not related to job performance. Moreover, an employer’s ethical responsibility is to fairly compensate the employees, providing them with a wage adequate to their contributions and the prevailing market rates. Also, a violation of ethical norms is to withhold or underpay employees’ wages, especially when they are facing financial difficulties. Moreover, respecting employees’ privacy is crucial (e.g. no discloser of the employees’ confidential medical information without their consent).
Maintaining confidentiality is essential to create an environment of trust and respect in the workplace. Management ethics is generally based on the interactions with various economic actors, (consumers, competitors, shareholders, suppliers, and trade unions, etc.) as well as the relationship between the companies and workers. A balanced and objective approach is crucial in all these interactions. The ethical standards require that products or services provided to customers are safe, accurately described, and appropriately priced.
Companies are to give accurate financial information to their investors. Misrepresenting financial performance, concealing material facts, or engaging in insider trading, definitely undermine investor confidence. Hence, honesty and transparency are paramount in shareholder relations. The interactions with dealers and suppliers must be conducted in accordance with the ethical standards, including with the compliance of contractual obligations, fair treatment, and timely payment, as well.
Constructive collaboration with the trade unions is another important aspect of management ethics. Confirming the rights of performers to organise and bargain collectively, and following to the labor agreements are essential for maintaining effective labour relations in the company.
Moreover, dealing with partners and personnel in a transparent and ethical manner, avoiding deceptive or unfair practices, is critical to maintain positive and beneficial relationships.
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In conclusion, management ethics encompass impacts on the integrity of the marketplace, the well-being of employees, and the trust between organisations and their shareholders. Keeping the ethical standards is a strategic necessity to build a sustainable enterprise and successful environment in the company.
Exercise 4. Match the words to their definitions. Make up sentences with these words.
1) ethics
2) immoral management
3) codes of ethics
4) whistle-blower
5) social responsibility
a) an approach that not only lacks ethical principles, but is actively opposed to ethical behaviour
b) the set of obligations an organisation has to protect and enhance the societal context in which it functions
c) an employee who reports a real or perceived wrongdoing under the control of his or her employer to those, who may be able to take appropriate actions
d) an individual’s personal benefits regarding what is right and wrong or good and bad
e) formal, written statements of what values and ethical standards guide a firm’s actions
Exercise 5. Complete the following sentences with words opposite in meaning to the words in italics. Add “un-”, “im-”, “il-” or “dis-” to the beginning of each adjective in the table to make words which have opposite meaning.
Example: interesting He does not like his job because it is uninteresting.
1. Satisfied Managers get ________ if their jobs offer no challenge.
2. Conclusive As the report was so ________, no recommendations were made.
3. Responsible ________ behaviour by staff can be costly to an organisation.
4. Popular Director become ________ if he fails to pay bonuses.
5. Respect No CEO likes a subordinate to be _______ .
6. Secure
7. Social People who work _______ hours at night time, usually receive extra pay.
8. Efficient Nowadays, it is not easy to get rid of worker who is ________ .
A worker who feels ________ in his job will probably not be committed to the firm he works for.
Exercise 6. Read the two views on whether companies are responsible. Put the verbs in the correct form.
Do you think companies are responsible?
Yes No
1. Many companies understand that their responsibility includes (conduct) their business in an ethical way and in ways that help (preserve) the environment.
2. Companies know that good practice involves (provide) good working conditions.
3. Many companies help (raise) money for local communities.
4. Companies agree (introduce) stricter measures to reduce pollution.
5. Companies must (make) a profit. If they don’t, there will be no jobs for the workforce.
1. They only introduce ethical policies if they think it will help (improve) their profits.
2. Many companies avoid (give) details of what they are doing.
3. They refuse (change) their practices.
4. Many companies risk (produce) goods which are harmful in order to make a profit.
5. They must (do) more to reduce damage to the environment.
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Exercise 7. Before reading the text, decide if these statements true or false.
Statements True False
1. All business work is based on cheating and lie.
2. Business people have particular responsibilities to society and people.
3. Many business leaders want their employees to work in an ethical way.
4. There are no laws that guide business leaders.
5. There is a need to develop ethical decision-making skills.
Business ethics encompass a set of principles and behaviors that are deemed morally acceptable in the realm of business. However, not all lawful actions align with ethical standards. A prime example is the controversial Volvo advertisement showcasing a specially reinforced vehicle emerging unscathed from a collision with a massive caterpillar, while its competitors succumbed to the impact.
Despite the unethical nature of the ad, no legal charges were brought forth. Within the framework of the social contract between society and businesses, certain rules govern business conduct. Media portrayals often depict business leaders as deceitful, environmentally destructive, and profit-driven individuals who jeopardise the well-being of their employees and the public. However, this portrayal is far from accurate. Business professionals hold the responsibility to make decisions guided by ethical principles. They are accountable not only to their employees but also to society as a whole. Additionally, they have a duty to provide guidance on ethical decision-making to their employees.
In the XXI century, the significance of ethics in international business transactions has gained prominence, leading to discussions about adopting an international code of business ethics. Corporate leaders recognise the importance of ethical decision-making and actively seek ways to instill ethical practices among their employees. Ethical decision-making by business leaders revolves around several key considerations:
1) ensuring employee job satisfaction;
2) prioritising customer satisfaction;
3) guaranteeing profits for shareholders;
4) serving the community.
A multitude of factors influence business leaders, and ethical considerations can sometimes pose challenges when they must balance different priorities. Striking the right balance requires leaders to take into account the needs of their employees, customers, shareholders, and society as a whole.
Ethical standards and the ability to motivate employees are paramount for effective leadership. In recognising the significance of ethical behaviour, businesses foster positive work environments, enhance their reputation, attract and retain top talent, and ultimately achieve long-term success.
Exercise 8. Answer the following questions:
1. Which paragraph focus on ethic of advertising?
2. What stereotype on ethical principles does mass media give?
3. Which paragraph focus on the international code of business ethics?
4. What is the main idea of business ethics?
5. Should a head of the company follow the laws of ethic?
Exercise 9. Discuss the problem of ethical dilemma with other students. Try to find a right decision, based on the ethical principles.
1. The boss asks workers to stay late at the office. Several employees have said they cannot
stay late. However, the boss forces them to stay at work.
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2. Your colleague rarely completes work in time. You have helped him to finish several projects.
You want him to stop asking you to help him because you have your own work to do.
3. The company is growing and so does the amount of work. You are about to ask your boss
to hire more employees.
4. You are working as a supervisor at a company. You find out that the workers do not show
responsibility at work. The chief tells you to ignore their misbehaviour.
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UNIT 6
MAKING A REPORT
Each report aims to provide specialists with carefully organised information. The specific details of the future report depend on its type and the requirements specified in the terms of reference.
Subject: Date: Purpose (Introduction) Changes (instead of the word “changes” substitute your own title) Reasons (instead of the word “reasons” substitute your own title) Conclusion (Recommendation)
The structure of the report usually consists of three parts: introduction, main body and conclusion. The main part, in turn, is divided into several chapters (usually 2–3). Each of these chapters should have its own title. The date should be indicated under the title of the report.
Introduction. The main purpose of the introduction in the report is to make it clear what it is about and why it is written. If you are going to describe the changing indicators and explain the reasons for these changes, you should say so in the introduction: “The purpose of the report is to demonstrate the changes and explain the reasons for them”.
Body. In the main part, you fulfill the requirements presented in the assignment. You compare the data in the tables, explain the reasons for the changes, analyse the diagrams, if any. At the same time, it is necessary not just to list the facts one by one, but to structure and group the information.
Conclusion. The purpose of the report is to summarise all the data and information presented. Depending on the type of report, you may also be asked to express your opinion or make a recommendation on the issue under discussion.
Style. The report should be written in a formal business style. It is necessary to replace simple structural forms with more complex ones, to use advanced vocabulary, passive voice and appropriate means of logical communication. The use of informal, colloquial expressions and abbreviations is not allowed.
Exercise 1. Make a report according to the following conditions.
Imagine that you are a scientist doing structural research of two buildings. You have collected some data on the ways they were bult. Write a brief report describing the changes you have noticed comparing them over the years.
Write 200–250 words. Use the following plan:
1) opening statements;
2) possible reasons for the changes happening;
3) conclusion.
Preparation of the report
Preparing a successful report begins with developing a solid plan. If time permits, it’s advisable to create a draft report based on this plan. However, if time is limited, creating a detailed plan and using it as the foundation for writing the report directly is recommended.
In the introductory section, clearly outline the report’s objectives, content, and the sources of data used. Proceed to describe any observed changes, avoiding repetitions and explaining the underlying reasons for these changes. Unlike previous sections, this part should reflect your personal opinions.
The tone should remain neutral, and passive constructions are encouraged. Avoid common pitfalls when writing the report, such as inconsistencies in style, excessive use of personal pronouns
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(e.g., “I think”, “I consider”), abbreviations (“it’s”, “hasn’t”), and overly simple sentences or colloquial vocabulary, which can detract from the quality of the report.
Additionally, refrain from using the same type of constructions repeatedly when making comparisons or contrasts, as this can negatively impact the lexical and grammatical aspects of the report.
Exercise 2. Read the following text and write 5 questions on its subject.
Investigation of occupational accidents
As an employer, you are legally responsible for investigating all workplace accidents involving an employee representative or, in their absence, a representative of the working environment. This investigation must be completed within 10 working days of the accident’s occurrence. The investigation concludes with the preparation of a report, which should be prepared in three copies. One copy should be retained by the employer, while the other two should be submitted to the local Labor Inspectorate and the accident victim (or their representative) within three working days of the investigation’s completion.
If the investigation is not being conducted professionally, it must be immediately terminated. In such cases, a document should be created that describes the circumstances of the accident and explains the reason for terminating the investigation.
This document must be signed by the employer’s representative and the authorised representative. The employee representative can sign it if they are not available only. Also, a record of all workplace accidents is provided with relevant data demonstrated to the occupational health and safety specialist, the working environment representative, the employee representative, and the working environment council. The documents collected and prepared during the investigation of the occupational accident are to be stored for an authorised period of time. Per the investigation’s findings, the employer must prepare measures to prevent similar accidents from happening in the future.
Exercise 3. Study the text and say if the following statements are true or false.
Statements True False
1. The report is to be prepared in 2 copies, with 1 copy made for any local authority — the Labor Inspectorate or the police.
2. The investigation of the occupational accident requires the preparation of a report at the final stage.
3. The investigation of the occupational accident shall be carried out within 15 working days.
4. An employer is to investigate any occupational accidents.
5. If it appears to be an occupational investigation, prepare a report in a free form.
Exercise 4. Read the text below and make 5 questions on the topic.
Safety rules at the workplace
Workplace safety is vital for any company. The proper regulations and positive working environment increase productivity and work efficiency and protect the employees from the occupational accidents and injuries.
The main rules of workplace safety that help the personnel to fully concentrate on work and to minimise the risk of occupational accidents are as follows:
1. Arrive at work well-rested and in good physical condition.
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2. Always keep your workplace clean and tidy. Poor household habits can pose a serious
performance risk. Do not leave materials in exits, passageways, stairs, roads, etc.
3. All warning signs, signals and alarms must be kept in order and observed.
4. Avoid any inappropriate behaviour to maintain a professional workplace environment
including aggressive manner and practical jokes, as well.
5. Fire extinguishing equipment must be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions and the requirements of the fire code.
6. Smoking is strictly prohibited inside buildings. “No smoking” signs must be used in the
areas near flammable warehouses.
7. Report any dangerous accidents to the supervisor or the Occupational Safety Department.
8. Only qualified and trained personnel is authorised to operate machinery, equipment, and
vehicles. The operations with machinery or equipment in unsafe condition are forbidden.
9. Avoid parking, even temporary, in the zones assigned to the fire teams.
Exercise 5. What rules have been developed in the high schools of Russia to provide a safe and healthy studying environment for all students and employees (for example, at your university)? Write 10 safety rules or duties for students.
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UNIT 7
MAKING A PRESENTATION
A common presentation has the following structure:
1) introduction;
2) attracting attention;
3) the main part;
4) conclusion;
5) answering questions.
Presentation is a powerful tool for communicating information and convincing the audience. The ability to present your ideas effectively can be critical to success in business, education, and other fields of activity. In this article, we will look at 10 key principles of effective presentation.
1. Determine the starting point. Start your presentation with exciting and meaningful information that will immediately attract the attention of the audience and make them think. It can be an interesting fact, a provocative question, or a personal story.
2. Avoid reading slides. Do not read the text from the slides word for word. It’s boring and distracts the audience’s attention. It is better to speak in your own words, using slides as an addition to speech.
3. Make eye contact with the audience. Regularly look at different people in the audience. Eye contact helps to maintain the attention and participation of listeners.
4. Be concise. Do not overload the presentation with information. Formulate your ideas briefly and clearly.
5. Speak naturally. Speak in a natural voice, do not try to imitate someone else. Pay attention to the pauses — they play an important role in the presentation.
6. Use graphical elements and diagrams. Graphical elements and diagrams can help make your presentation more visual and understandable. However, do not overdo it with them — they should complement your words, not replace them.
7. Prepare carefully for the end. The end of the presentation should be easy and memorable. Don’t leave the audience indifferent — finish the presentation with a strong call to action.
8. Follow the rules of conversation and be polite and respectful to the audience. Avoid offensive or provocative statements.
9. Use gestures and facial expressions. Gestures and facial expressions can help you convey emotions and enhance the impact of your words. However, they should be natural and appropriate.
10. Questions from the audience are welcomed as the questions from the audience are your opportunity to improve the presentation. Answer the questions clearly and avoid long or confusing answers.
Starting cliche
Formal meeting Informal meeting
Good morning/afternoon/evening ladies and gentlemen. My name is … and I’m head of the marketing department. Our purpose this morning is to hear a presentation, and to discuss it with all of you.
Introduction cliche
Formal meeting Informal meeting
As you already know, today’s presentation is designed to present some important points of… This first slide shows our agenda for the day.
OK everyone. Take your seats, please. Let’s get started. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask them at the end of my presentation. You’ll hear a presentation and then we’ll discuss it to find any fresh ideas.
Right, I would start with thanking you all for your interest to this presentation. My talk today will take about … minutes.
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