UNIT 4: THE WORLD OF TECHNOLOGY

Skills Focus

• Listening
• Speaking
 4.1 VOCABULARY The world of technology
A. Combine words from Box A with words from Box B to make word partnerships.
A wireless real- simultaneous voice sensor neat artificial digital
B features technology recognition intelligence time earphones translation business

1. processing and transmitting information instantly - real-time

2. a form of translation in which the interpreter translates into the target language as quickly as possible while the speaker is still
speaking in the source language simultaneous translation
3. a technology that uses sensors to acquire information by detecting the physical, chemical, or biological property quantities and
convert them into readable signal sensor technology
4. the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems artificial intelligence
5. the process of applying digital technology to reinvent business models and transform a company’s products and customer
experiences digital business
wireless
6. a type of audio device that allows users to listen to music or audio without the need for physical wires earphones
7. the ability of a machine or program to receive and interpret dictation or to understand and perform spoken commands
8. impressive qualities of a product or service neat features voice recognition
B. Choose the correct answer.
1. AI stands for artificial …………………

a) intellect b) intelligence c) interest d) imagination

2. Phones, tablets and laptops are digital …………………

a) instruments b) materials c) devices d) services

3. Somebody who is good at using technology can be described as …………………

a) tech-savvy b) tech-clever c) tech-intelligent d) high-tech

4. ChatGPT is a …………………

a) company b) chatbot c) computer d) robot

5. You can download mobile apps on your phone or tablet. ‘App’ is short for …………………

a) approach b) apparatus c) application d) appliance

C. Complete the sentences with word partnerships from Exercises A and B.
ChatGPT is a natural language processing tool driven by AI technology that allows you to have human-
1. …………………
like conversations.
2. The …………………
simultaneousfeature
translation
on my phone has been a lifesaver when traveling abroad.
3. The …………………
voice recognition
technology in my car allows me to make hands-free calls and send text messages while
driving.
4. Some …………………
neat featuresof the new smartphone include facial recognition, wireless charging, and a high-quality
camera.
5. …………………
Artificial intelligence
is the simulation of human intelligence processes by computer systems.
Sensor technology
6. ………………… is a technology that detects and responds to some type of input from the physical environment.
………………… data processing is essential for many applications, such as stock trading and weather
7. Real-time
forecasting.
D. Discussion
Work in pairs and discuss these questions.
1. What technology of the future are you most looking forward to?
2. How do you think technology will improve our lives in the future?
3. Do you think AI will affect your job? Why or why not?
1. I am most looking forward to the development of advanced AI systems
that can improve decision-making, problem-solving, and communication
across various industries.

2. Technology will improve our lives in the future by enhancing our ability
to access information, connect with others, and automate repetitive tasks,
leading to increased efficiency, productivity, and overall quality of life.

3. Yes, AI will likely affect my job, as it will automate many tasks and
processes, leading to the need for more specialized roles that focus on
managing and maintaining AI systems, as well as developing new
applications and solutions.
 4.2 LISTENING Listening for gist  Listening for details
PRE-LISTENING
A. In pairs, discuss these questions.
1. What are the benefits of using computers in business research?
2. What are some challenges associated with using computers in business research?
B. Match these words with their meanings.
1. census a) a situation in which a particular set of conditions is created artificially in order to
B study or experience something that could exist in reality
2. stakeholder D b) the process of officially counting something, and recording various facts
3. track F c) to use machines and computers instead of people to do a job or task
4. centralize d) a person or company that is involved in a particular organization, especially
E because they have invested money in it
5. automate C e) to give the control of an organization to a group of people in one particular place
6. simulation A f) to follow the progress or development of something
WHILE-LISTENING
A. Listen to the first part about ‘The importance of computers in research and development’ and fill in
each blank with ONE word.
Computers have become an integral part of research and development in many industries. They can help speed up
process
the research (1) ………………… data
by organizing and storing (2) …………………, running simulations, and
analyze
helping to (3) ………………… results. They can also be used to develop new (4) …………………
products and
processes, and to test and improve existing ones. In many cases, research and development would not be possible
without computers.
conduct research on industry trends, patents, trademarks, potential
Businesses can use computers to (5) …………………
clients, and (6) …………………
competitors by using search engines and proprietary databases. Graphics, video, and audio
production on computers.
are all currently used in media (7) …………………
B. Listen to the second part about ‘What is the role of computers in development?’ and answer these
questions.
1. What is one of the most important role of computers in development?
Data storage
2. What sources can be used to collect data?
Surveys, censuses, and satellite imagery
3. In development projects, who can computers be used to communicate with?
Stakeholders
4. How can computers identify problems and potential areas for improvement?
By tracking progress and collecting data
5. Why has data sharing become much easier in recent years?

Because of the simple link between two computer systems

C. Listen to the last part about ‘The benefits of social computing in the workplace’ and decide whether
these statements are True (T) or False (F).
1. Social computing can enhance face-to-face interactions in the workplace. 1. T
2. Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Google+ are examples of social networking sites. 2. T
3. Social computing can reduce workplace collaboration and communication skills.
3. F
4. Employees can increase their efficiency by connecting with others through social computing.
4. T
5. Social computing can increase the amount of time employees spend working on their own.
5. F
POST-LISTENING
Discuss these questions.
1. How can social
computing be used to
increase efficiency and
productivity in the
workplace?
2. How can social
networking sites improve
communication and
collaboration in the
workplace?
 4.3 SPEAKING Talking on the telephone
LEAD-IN
A. Listen to two telephone calls and fill in the table with the information you hear.

Telephone call The purpose of the call The result of the call
to change the next Wednesday at 2pm
1 appointment time

to arrange a different - a flight that departs tomorrow at 10am

2 flight and to book a
room at another and arrives in Tokyo at 3pm
hotel - a room at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel
B. Listen to the first call again and complete this extract.

Vincent: Hi, Tracy. (1) …………How ………… are you

…………doing…………?
Tracy: Hi, Vincent. I’m doing well, (2) ………… thanks
………… for asking
………… . How about you?
Vincent: I’m good too, thank you. (3) ………… I’m calling
………… because I (4) ………… I won’t be able
………… …………
………… make our appointment tomorrow.
Tracy: Oh, really? What happened?
I’m sorry
Vincent: Unfortunately, I have to attend an urgent meeting with my manager tomorrow. (5) ………… …………
for the inconvenience.
Tracy: No worries. Is there any other day that works for you?
How about
Vincent: (6) ………… ………… next Wednesday at 2pm?
Tracy: (7) …………That’s ………… …………
fine for me………… .Thanks for letting me know.
Vincent: You’re welcome. I’ll send you an email to confirm the new date and time.
Tracy: Sounds good. Thanks again.
Vincent: No problem. Have a great day!
C. Listen to the second call again and complete this extract.
Rick: Hi, Rick speaking.
Jennifer: Hello, Rick. (1) ………… It’s me
…………, Jennifer. I’m currently on a business trip to Singapore and I need to stay an extra day.
Unfortunately, my hotel is full. (2) …………Can
…………you help
………… me………… arrange a different flight and a night at another hotel?
Rick: Oh, I’m sorry to hear that. Let me check what I can do for you. Can you please give me your (3) ………… …………
…………?
Jennifer: Sure, it’s XYZ123.
booking reference number
Rick: Thank you. I see that your original flight is fully booked. However, I can arrange a different flight for you that departs tomorrow
at 10am and arrives in Tokyo at 3pm. You will have to take a connecting flight from Tokyo to your final destination. (4) …………
………… Is that
…………okay………… with you…………?
What about
Jennifer: Yes, that works for me. (5) ………… ………… the hotel?
Rick: I have found a room for you at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel. It’s a 5-star hotel located near the airport. The room rate is $200 per
night. Would you like me to book it for you?
That sounds
Jennifer: Yes, please. (6) ………… …………great
………… .
Rick: Alright, I have made the necessary arrangements. You will receive an email with your new flight details and hotel reservation. Is
there anything else I can help you with?
Thank
Jennifer: No, that’s all. (7) ………… …………you…………
so much
………… for your help.
Rick: You’re welcome. Have a safe trip!
FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE
Put these expressions in the appropriate column.

Good. I’ll see you on the

That’s great, I’ll see you … Good morning, Bob. Could we fix another time?
8th.
Could we meet on Monday How / What about June
That’s fine / OK for me. The reason I’m calling is …
at 11:00? 12th?
We’ve got an appointment I’m sorry. I can’t make it on
I’d like to speak to Martin,
for 10 o’clock, but I’m afraid I’m calling about … Tuesday. I’ve got something
please.
something’s come up. on that morning.
Could I have the sales
This is Jonathan. Is 10.00 convenient / OK? Jennifer speaking.
department, please?
Good morning, Manor Care,
Sorry, I can’t make it then. Right. / OK, then. Thank you. Goodbye.
Inc.
 ANSWERING THE PHONE IDENTIFYING YOURSELF MAKING CONTACT STATING YOUR PURPOSE

 Good morning,  This is Jonathan.  I’d like to speak to  I’m calling about …
Manor Care, Inc.  Jennifer speaking. Martin, please.  The reason I’m
 Good morning, Bob.  Could I have the sales calling is …
department, please?

CHANGING ARRANGEMENTS MAKING ARRANGEMENTS RESPONDING CLOSING

 We’ve got an  Could we meet on  Sorry, I can’t make it  Good. I’ll see you on
appointment for 10 Monday at 11:00? then. the 8th.
o’clock, but I’m afraid  Is 10.00 convenient /  That’s fine / OK for me.  That’s great, I’ll see
something’s come up. OK? you …
 Could we fix another  How / What about  Right. / OK, then.
time? June 12th?  Thank you. Goodbye.
 I’m sorry. I can’t make
it on Tuesday. I’ve got
something on that
morning.
 Student A Student B
You need to telephone a potential client to reschedule a meeting. You work as a receptionist at a prestigious law firm. The lawyer your
You had planned to meet them for lunch, but an urgent matter has client wants to meet is currently with another client. Answer the
Situation 1

TASKS
come up and you cannot make it. Telephone the client’s office and telephone and take a message from the client, noting their request to
Work in them
inform pairsabout
and the
rolechange
play of
these
plans.three
Maketelephone situations.
sure to apologize reschedule the meeting.
and suggest an alternative time for the meeting.

You need to telephone a supplier to inquire about the delivery of You work as a customer service representative at a manufacturing
an important order. The delivery was scheduled for today, but it has company. Your colleague, who handles the supplier relationships, is
Situation 2

not arrived yet. Telephone the supplier’s office and express your currently unavailable. Answer the telephone and take a message from
concern about the delay. Request an update on the delivery and the customer, noting their concern about the delayed delivery.
apologize for any inconvenience caused.

You need to telephone a colleague to discuss a project deadline You work as a team leader in a marketing agency. Your colleague, who is
extension. Due to unforeseen circumstances, you won’t be able to responsible for a crucial task in a project, is in a meeting with a client.
Situation 3

complete your part of the project on time. Telephone your Answer the telephone and take a message from your colleague, noting
colleague’s office and explain the situation, requesting an their request for a deadline extension.
extension. Apologize for any inconvenience caused and propose a
new deadline.
 4.4 SKILLS BANK

When making arrangements over the telephone, it is essential to communicate effectively, convey your message
clearly, and maintain a polite and professional tone. Here are some helpful notes to guide you through the
process:
1. Introduction
 Start the conversation by greeting the person on the other end of the line.
 Introduce yourself by providing your name and the purpose of your call.
 Example: ‘Hello, this is [Your Name]. I am calling to make arrangements for [specific purpose].’
2. Be clear and concise
 Clearly state the purpose of your call and what you are trying to arrange.
 Provide specific details such as date, time, location, and any additional requirements.
 Use simple and straightforward language to ensure your message is easily understood.
3. Active listening
 Pay attention to the person’s responses and take notes if necessary.
 Repeat important details back to confirm understanding and avoid misunderstandings.
 Ask for clarification if you are unsure about any information provided.
4. Polite and courteous language
 Use polite phrases such as ‘please’, ‘thank you’, and ‘excuse me’ to show respect.
 Maintain a friendly and positive tone throughout the conversation.
 Avoid interrupting the other person and give them enough time to respond.
5. Confirming and reconfirming
 Summarize the arrangement details at the end of the conversation to ensure clarity.
 Ask the person if the details you have provided are correct and if there is anything else they need.
 Offer your contact information in case there are any changes or further communication required.
6. Taking notes
 Have a pen and paper ready to jot down important information or instructions.
 Organize your notes clearly to refer back to them when needed.
 Make a note of any follow-up actions or tasks you need to complete after the call.
7. Ending the call
 Thank the person for their time and assistance.
 End the conversation with a polite farewell.
Example: ‘Thank you for your help. Have a great day!’
 4.5 WORD BANK

 adjustment (n) /əˈdʒʌstmənt/ a small change made to something in order to

correct or improve it
 automate (v) /ˈɔːtəmeɪt/ to use machines and computers instead of people to do
a job or task
 belonging (n) /bɪˈlɒŋɪŋ/ the feeling of being comfortable and happy in a
particular situation or with a particular group of people, and being treated as a
full member of the group
 cencus (n) /ˈsensəs/ the process of officially counting something, especially a
country’s population, and recording various facts
 centralize (v) /ˈsentrəlaɪz/ to give the control of an organization to a group of
people in one particular place
 collaboration (n) /kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃn/ the act of working with another person or
group of people to create or produce something
 corporate (adj) /ˈkɔːpərət/ connected with a large business company
 efficiency (n) /ɪˈfɪʃnsi/ the quality of doing something well with no waste of
time or money
 inventory (n) /ˈɪnvəntri/ a written list of all the objects, furniture, etc. in a
particular building
 patent (n) /ˈpætnt/ an official right to be the only person to make, use or sell a
product or an invention; a document that proves this
 productivity (n) /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/ the rate at which a worker, a company or a country
produces goods, and the amount produced, compared with how much time, work and
money is needed to produce them
 simulation (n) /ˌsɪmjuˈleɪʃn/ a situation in which a particular set of conditions is
created artificially in order to study or experience something that could exist in
reality
 stakeholder (n) /ˈsteɪkhəʊldə(r)/ a person or company that is involved in a particular
organization, project, system, etc., especially because they have invested money in it
 track (v) /træk/ to follow the progress or development of something
 trademark (n) /ˈtreɪdmɑːk/ a name, symbol or design that a company uses for its
products and that cannot be used by anyone else
 utilize (v) /ˈjuːtəlaɪz/ to use something, especially for a practical purpose