Impossibility

1. Have you seen my car keys? I can’t find them.

2. They can’t come to the meeting on Friday.

Permission

1. Can I borrow some money for the drinks machines?

2. Can I park here? – Yes, of course you can.

Work in pairs. Make complete questions from the words below. Take turns to ask for permission and to respond to your partner.

Example:

Can / smoke / here? → Sorry, you can’t. You can only smoke in the Cafeteria.

Can I smoke here? → Sorry, you can’t. You can only smoke in the Cafeteria.

1. Can / look at / book? → Yes, of course. Here you are.

2. Can / borrow / £10? → Sorry, I've only got £5.

3. Can / sit / here? → Yes, of course. The seat's not taken.

4. Can / borrow / newspaper? → Sorry, I'm reading it myself.

5. Can / turn over / TV? → Yes, of course. This programme's not very interesting.

Now cover the responses and repeat the exercise.

Work in pairs or groups. Design a robot to help you at work. Think of ten things that it can do. Then tell the other Students what your robot can do.

Write the names of five people that you know on the left. Then write one things that each person CAN and CAN’T do on the right.

Example:

Alessandra She can play the trumpet.

She can’t drive a car.

Behavior

Look at the statements below. They describe office culture in four different countries. Which countries do you think they are? Do you think the statements are TRUE? Are they also TRUE for other countries?

1. You shouldn't leave work before your boss. You have to live for your work. People often work twelve or fifteen hours a day but also they have a job for life.

2. Office protocol is very informal. For example, you don't have to wear a suit and tie. You can even wear shorts when it's hot. But at the same time you always need to show respect for one thing: financial success.

3. Clothes and appearance are very important. If you want respect, you must look elegant and successful, even if your job is not very important. Somehow, even people with low incomes are able to buy clothes that look expensive.

4. You ought to learn the basics of polite language because you could easily offend someone if you don't use words like 'sorry' and 'thank you'. You might even offend someone without knowing it because no one will tell you if they are offended.

What rules are there in your office? Use as many modals as you can to explain office and business protocol in your country.

BE ABLE TO and HAVE TO

Complete the following tables with the correct forms of HAVE TO and BE ABLE TO. Use HE and WORK in every sentence. Some are already done for you.

Have to	+	?	-
Past	He had to work
Present Perfect		Has he had to work?
Present		Does he have to work?
Future			He won’t have to work

Able to	+	?	-
Past	He was able to work
Present Perfect		Has he been able to work?
Present		Is he able to work?
Future			He won’t be able to work

Ability in the past When we talk about ability in the past, we usually could… to talk about general skills and abilities I could read when I was four. I got the job because I could use a computer. to talk about senses I could smell gas when I entered the office. I couldn’t see anything because it was dark. We use able to… to talk about our ability to perform Although it was dark, I was able to find the single actions gas heater, read the instructions and turn it off.

Complete the sentences below.

1. If I win the lottery, I'll be able to __________________________

2. If I win the lottery, I won't have to __________________________

3. If I lose my job, I won't have to ___________________________

4. If I move to the country, I won't be able to _____________________

Use an appropriate form of one of the verbs on the left to fill each gap. You can use more than one word in each gap. The first one is already done for you.

1. Can/be able to I won't be able to____ go on holiday if I get this new job.

2. Must/have to We _______________ work very hard if we get

this contract.

3. Can/be able to We ____________________ save a lot of

money since we started working in this country.

4. Must/have to I _____________ study a lot for my exam last year.

5. Can/be able to Now I ___________ relax. My exams are over.

6. Must/be able to I _______________ learn a lot since I started this job.

Write five sentences about your childhood. Write about what you HAD TO do and what you COULD/COULDN'T do.

Present Simple 1 2 3 It is made It is cleaned PASSIVE VOICE Form 1 2 3 Present Continuous 1 2 3 It is being made It is being cleaned Past Simple 1 2 3 It was made It was cleaned Past Continuous 1 2 3 It was being made It was being cleaned Present Perfect 1 2 3 It has being made It has being cleaned subject + ‘be’ (in correct tense) + past participle of verb

Exercise. Put the following into the Passive mentioning the agent where necessary.

I. 1. We hear a sound of a violin in the hall. 2. His father always praises him when he works hard. 3. My sister often takes Bob for his brother. 4. My mother wakens me at 7 o'clock every morning.

II. 1. She found the envelope at last behind the dining-room clock. 2. I bought this book a week ago. 3. A great artist painted this picture. 4. John broke the window the other day.

III. 1. I shall post that letter tomorrow. 2. They will discuss your report next week. 3. The secretary will change our time-table in a week. 4. Tom will meet us at the station. .

IV. 1. The secretary has recently brought this letter. 2. Jack has just spilled the milk. З. My little brother has broken this cup. 4. She has dusted the room carefully.

V. 1. He felt better when he had reached the post office, bought a registered envelope and posted the letter. 2. By the time the director came she had typed the letters. 3. They went home after they had finished the work. 4. He wondered why we had not visited him before. .

VI. 1 Our scientists are examining a new spaceship. Our friends are making preparations to meet them. They are preparing the meal now. 4. Tom and Harry were carrying our suitcases.

VII. 1. They showed her the shortest way to the station. 2. My mother taught me English. 3. We asked the lecturer a few questions about. Shakespeare. 4. Tom has just told me a good story. 5. She lent me this book last Tuesday. 6. My friend gave me a good piece of advice how to do it. 7. The postman delivers us the newspapers and the magazines every day about eight o'clock in the morning. 8. She told us her name after we had asked her twice. 9. I sent her brother a telegram.

VIII. 1. I sent my daughter for the doctor. 2. We listened to the teacher very attentively. 3. We spoke much about his speech. 4. His friend always found fault with him. 5. We often refer to this article. 6. They agreed upon the plan. 7. People often ask for this book. 8. My friends always take care of my little sister. 9. They took no notice of his words. 10. They will listen to his lectures with great interest. 11. His friends always laugh at him. 12. We have never lived in this house. 13. A distinguished surgeon will operate on my sister.

Put the correct form of the verbs in brackets into the sentences.

Example:

Where … the meeting … yesterday? – Where was the meeting held yesterday?

1. When … the house … ? (build) – In 2002.

2. Prices … every year. (rise)

3. Why … the design … last month? (change)

4. When … the new manager … ? (appoint) – Last month.

5. My car … last week. (steal)

6. The office … every day. (clean)

7. Anew product … just … . (develop)

8. Bananas … into Northern Europe. (import)

Match the products with the countries and make a sentence.

Example:

Coffee is produced (or grown) in Brazil.

Diamonds produce Switzerland

Cotton manufacture Italy

Cheese grow South Africa

Wine mine Germany

Cars make India

Put the verbs into the correct form, present simple or past simple, active or passive.

1. It’s a big factory. Five hundred people (employ) there.

2. Water (cover) most of the Earth’s surface.

3. The boat (sink) quickly but fortunately everybody (rescued).

4. While I was on holiday, my camera (steal) from the hotel room.

5. While I was on holiday, my (disappear) from my hotel room.

6. Why (Sue/resign) from her job? Didn’t she enjoy it?

7. Why (Bill/sack) from his job? What did he do wrong?

Write these sentences in passive.

1. They didn’t give me the money. I… .

2. They asked me some difficult questions at the interview. I … .

3. Janet’s colleagues gave her a present when she retired. Janet … .

4. Nobody told me that George was ill. I … .

5. How much will they pay you?

6. I think they should have offered Tom the job.

Has anybody shown you what to do?

C H A P T E R 2

UNIT 1

APPLYING FOR A JOB: JOB ADS

Read about all aspects of applying for a new job

Applying for a New Job

In most parts of the world it is common to submit a typed CV* (curriculum vitae - British English) or resume (American English). This contains all the unchanging information about you: your education, background experience. This usually accompanies a letter of application. Interviews may take many forms in business today: from the traditional one-to-one interview to panel interview where several candidates are interviewed by a panel of interviewers, to "deep-end" interviews where applicants have to demonstrate how they can cope in actual business situations. Moreover, the atmosphere of an interview may vary from the informal to the formal and from the kindly to the sadistic. Fashions seem to change quite rapidly in interview techniques and the only rules that applicants should be aware of may be "Expect the unexpected" and "Be yourself"!

In different countries, different trades and different grades, the salary that goes with a job may be only part of the package: perks* like a company car or cheap housing loans, bonuses paid in a "thirteenth month", company pension schemes, generous holidays or flexible working hours may all contribute to the attractiveness of a job.

* CV - a short written account of a persons' education and past employment, used esp. when they are looking for a new job.

* perk - money, goods, or an advantage that one gets regularly and legally from one's work in addition to one's pay.

Recruitment

In life of any person there is a moment when he must take a very important decision – to find a job which will bring satisfaction and money simultaneously. And what is an ideal job for you? Choose the answers and give your reasons.

An ideal job for me is a job …

*that suits my personality

*that gives challenge and opportunity

*that gives independence

*well-paid

*risky

*exciting

*that encourages thinking and development

*calm and steady

*which is connected with communication

*prestigious

*part-time

*without long business trips

Read and translate the text.

Applying for a job

Getting a job begins with locating and applying for jobs that will advance your career plans. It also involves convincing employers that you are the best applicant for their job openings. The way you apply for a job and present your qualifications can greatly influence an employer’s impression of you. Therefore, you should know how to contact employers, how to complete application forms, and how to make a good impression in job interviews.

It is also important to know how to write a good resume, or summary of your background and qualifications. All these skills can improve your chances for employment. However, do not be discouraged if you are not offered the first job you apply for. Most employers consider several applicants for each job opening, and many people make a number of applications before hired.

One of the most common ways to learn about job opportunities is by word-of-mouth. Many jobs are filled by people who have heard of the job openings from friends, relatives, teachers, and acquaintances. You should therefore tell the people you know and meet that you are looking for certain kinds of work.

Another common way to locate job opportunities is through the classified section of newspapers. Many professional and union newsletters, magazines, and other trade publications also carry advertisements for job openings. From such advertisement you can learn, what profession, skills, experience are necessary for this job. Sometimes they also mention approximate salary and other benefits.

Information about job openings is also available from employment agencies. Public employment agencies are run by the government and do not charge for their services. Private agencies charge the job-seeker or the employer a fee if a person is hired as a result of their efforts. Many high schools, colleges, and other schools have placement offices, which are set up to help students and graduates find jobs. Telephone directories list the names and addresses of employers in various fields. Jobseekers must contact the employers to learn about possible job openings. Your first contact with an employer will be either to apply for a known job opening or to find out if any jobs are available. Your contacts with employers should be effective and orderly. The most common ways of contacting employers are by mail, by telephone, and by personal visit to an employer’s office.

Most applicants for white-collar jobs get in touch with employers by mail. A letter to an employer should be type-written or neatly hand-written in ink. In the letter, introduce yourself. And explain why you are writing. Briefly indicate any experience and skills you have that relate to the kind of job you are seeking. Finally, ask for an interview. Be sure to include your address and telephone number so that the employer can reach you. If you contact an employer by telephone, try to provide the same information that you would cover in a letter.

You know that there are special newspapers dealing with recruitment. These are some job ads from such a newspaper. Look them through and choose an advert which attracts your attention at once.

1.

DX Communications in Scotland’s leading telecommunications company trading throughout the UK with subsidiaries in Ireland and Holland. Specializing in the sale of mobile phones and related telecommunications equipment, we are currently listed as one of the three fastest growing private companies in the UK. In line with this rapid growth, we are now looking to recruit the following key people.

Branch Managers

Excellent salary and commission

In line with our current and proposed future expansion, we require Branch Managers for the Aberdeen area to drive our business forward. We are seeking individuals who are self motivated and who thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. You should be a skilled communicator and have a genuine enthusiasm for customer care. Retail management experience is preferred, however knowledge of the mobile phone industry is not essential as full training will be given.

Communication Advisors

Excellent salary and commission

Employment opportunities currently exist for high calibre Sales individuals for our Aberdeen retail branches. Industry experience is not essential but a desire to succeed is. High flyers will be rewarded by our management policy to “promote from within”. An outgoing personality, excellent communication skills and a focus on the customer is essential.

To apply, please send forward your CV, including current remuneration package, to Mrs. Mandy Darroch, HR Manager, DX Communications, Claremont Centre, 39 Durham Street, Glasgow, G 41 1BS.

Closing data for applications 17^th October 1997.

DX Communications – we succeed because we care.

2.

Cleveland Europe Limited

Customer service – linguist

Cleveland Europe Limited,

A subsidiary of Greenfield Industries, Inc. U.S.A.

Wish to recruit a linguist to work in our

Customer Service Department

Applicants should be fluent in German

and have a good knowledge of French.

Some commercial experience also preferred.

Applicants should apply in writing including a full CV to:

Personnel Department

Clevel and Europe Limited

Station Road

Peterhead

Aberdeenshire

AB42 6SB

3.

What makes you special

Are you someone who:

*likes a challenge?

*enjoys working with people? Wants to make a real contribution?

*enjoys a team environment?

*needs variety day to day?

*is self motivated?

There are the qualities that make people in the Scottish Prison Service special.

The Scottish Prison Service are looking for female and male Prison Officers to work with us at HMP Aberdeen and Peterhead. You’ll need to convince us that you can bring maturity, common sense, good communication skills and a positive attitude to the role – and in return, we’ll provide a supportive team working environment and first class training and professional development.

You must also meet the following criteria:

*aged at least 20 years

*minimum 5’0’ Grades/Standard grades at A, B, C or 1, 2, 3 pass level which must include English and Maths/Arithmetic – or have at least 3 years’ experience in managing people

*physically fit with good standard of health and good eyesight

The rewards are excellent – a starting salary of 12,500 pounds with a lot more potential, and a benefits package including non-contributory pension scheme and performance related pay.

You know you’re special – so let us know too. Call us today for an application form and more information quoting reference 126A, between 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

01312256755

SPS is fully committed to equal opportunities. People from an ethnic minority background are under represented in the Service and applications are particularly welcomed from this group.

Look at a better future

Scottish

prison

service

4.

A career in sales

If you have a friendly personality and a desire to build a successful career selling houses and apartments, you should be just the person to become a full time.

Barratt sales negotiator

You’ll need to have your own car, telephone and work five days per week (inc. weekends).

In return, we are offering a generous basic plus commission to provide excellent on target earnings of J20 K P.A. pound plus other benefits

Sales experience would be an advantage.

Applicants in writing with c.v. to

Mr Gordon Cusiter, Sales &Marketing Director

BARRATT CONSTRUCTION LTD

2 Golf Road, Ellon, Aberdeenshire AB41 9AT

BARRATT

Britain Premier House Builder

5.

Robert Gordon’s College

(HMC INDEPENDENT – Coeducational 14000 pupils)

School nurse

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates who have recent experience of working with children and in healthcare administration.

The school nurse is required during the school term and salary is paid pro rata in accordance with national scale rates.

School teachers

The school is updating its list of supply teachers in all subjects. Candidates should be registered with the General Teaching Council for Scotland or eligible for such registration.

There are no specially forms of application. Letters of application should be accompanied by a full Curriculum Vitae and should include the names of two referees.

Application should be made in writing by

14^th October 2003 stating qualifications and experience to :

The Headmaster

Robert Gordons’ College

Schoolhill, Aberdeen, AB10 IFE

From whom further information may be obtained.

Robert Gordons’ College is recognized as a charity for the provision of education for children.