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1 Digital technology
1 How often do you use each
method of payment (in shops, to pay rent or bills, to pay for services)?
Electronic money
Weve used home computers and the Internet for banking since the 1990s. Is the mobile wallet going to replace cash?
1 Wave-and-pay is a way for shoppers to buy things. 2 Wave-and-pay uses technology that already exists in all mobile phones. 3 Shoppers can use wave-and-pay to transfer money directly from their bank to the shops till. 4 The technology might easily allow parents to control their kids spending. 5 Wave-and-pay is even safer than cash because no one can steal it. 6 Paper money and coins probably wont be used five years from now.
Its now possible to pay for things in a shop by standing near the till and tapping an app on your mobile phone. Wave-and-pay technology allows electronic devices to communicate when they are near each other. Shoppers can add money to their phones electronically, and shopkeepers devices can take money in exchange for goods. Soon, some experts say, all mobile phones will have this technology. Imagine the convenience. Most of us carry a mobile phone, and with electronic money, we would never worry about having enough cash. We could top up the phones wallet online, from a bank account, and never think about having the correct change for the bus. Using the phones software, parents could give their kids money that could be spent only on certain things books and pencils, for example, but not sweets or soft drinks. But dont give up on cash yet. Very few phones have the wave-and-pay computer chip, and most shops dont have wave-and-pay readers. Security is also an issue. Some experts warn that thieves may be able to steal your money simply by standing near you. Wave-and-pay doesnt always use a personal identification number (PIN). A hidden reader in a thief s pocket might be able to take your money without you knowing. We wont give up cash this year or next, but some experts believe that by 2030, all money will be electronic.
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2 Careers in technology
1 What questions would you ask
someone with the job title of Technical Installation Engineer? the interviewer asked Ron Martinez, a Technical Installation Engineer. Correct your questions in 1 if necessary. the answers in the text and put them in a logical order.
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3 Biology
1 Answer the questions.
1 What do you think are the worlds top three problems today? 2 Can you think of possible solutions to any of the problems? 3 Can you guess what a bioengineer does?
How bioengineers apply biology, physics, chemistry, and mathematics to real-world problems
Biological engineering (usually shortened to bioengineering) is the practice of working with, and sometimes changing, the natural world. But what does that mean? Here are some projects bioengineers are working on today.
Smart medicine
We usually take medicine after we realize were ill. Bioengineers are working on tiny intelligent capsules (small containers) that can be placed inside the human body. At the first sign of illness usually a small chemical change a capsule could release drugs into the human body and fight the illness. At the moment, this is very specialized technology for astronauts. But one day, smart medicine may be available to everyone.
Carbon capture
Climate change is a big issue, and most experts agree that carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere is a major problem. While governments argue about the best ways to control CO2 production, bioengineers are working on technological solutions. One solution is to remove CO2 from emissions as theyre being produced by cars and factories. This could be done by mixing the CO2 with other chemicals. Another possibility is to create huge carbon capture stations. They would look like nuclear power plants, but they would remove large amounts of CO2 from the surrounding air.
Super wheat
The worlds population has reached seven billion people and is still growing. Agriculture growing plants and animals to feed people requires huge amounts of land, water, and other resources. Experts believe that as the population grows, it will become more difficult to feed everyone. Bioengineers are working on ways to improve basic food plants such as wheat. How? They believe they can improve the efficiency of photosynthesis the process of plants turning the Suns energy into food for the plant. This increases the grain yield the amount of edible wheat produced without increasing the area of land needed. If they can do this, farmers will be able to provide more food without using more resources.
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4 Chemistry
1 Make a list of three materials that
you think are very important in the modern world. List ways they are used.
Example paper used for books, newspapers, magazines, and shopping bags.
2 In addition to graphite, what other two substances does the text name that are made entirely from carbon atoms? 3 Who gave graphene its name? 4 What everyday item helped two physicists win a Nobel Prize? 5 What two materials does graphene perform better than? 6 What three products might use graphene?
Graphite is made entirely of carbon atoms just as diamonds are. In diamonds, the atoms are arranged in a crystal structure that makes the material incredibly hard the hardest substance in the world. By contrast, carbon atoms in graphite are arranged in flat layers. This makes graphite relatively soft. It also means that graphite can form very thin layers, such as when you make a mark on paper with a pencil. Hanns-Peter Boehm, a German chemist, first observed layers of graphite that were only one-atom thick in the 1960s. He named his discovery graphene. Other scientists studied and tried to produce graphene throughout the 1970s, 80s, 90s, and into the 2000s. A breakthrough finally came in 2004, when two physicists at Manchester University removed a single-atom-thick layer of graphene from a piece of graphite using a piece of ordinary sticky tape. They received a Nobel Prize for their work. Whats so great about graphene? Graphene sheets are 200 times harder than steel. Graphene conducts electricity better than silicon. Its extremely thin and lightweight.
What will we do with it? Here are some of the experts ideas: Graphene could be used to replace silicon in computers logic circuits. Incredibly strong fabrics or smart clothing could be made with graphene. Screens of gadgets such as smartphones could be made much stronger with graphene.
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5 Mathematics
1 Answer the questions.
1 How often do you use mathematics? 2 What do you use mathematics for? 3 Can you name any jobs that require very strong mathematical ability?
Computer security
Computers are everywhere, and they contain our bank account information, credit card details, medical records, and other data we want to keep secret. How can we keep hackers from stealing this data? Cryptography is a field of mathematics that involves writing codes and finding ways to keep secrets. Governments and private companies employ cryptographers to keep computer data safe and secure.
2 Read the text. Were any of your ideas from 3 in 1 mentioned? 3 Complete the sentences with the
words below.
1 A studies rocks and soil and uses maths to find oil. is an expert at 2 A keeping computer data secret. uses maths to 3 A help improve a companys performance. 4 A predicts the weather using mathematical models. 5 A applies maths to medical problems.
Biomathematics
Doctors and medical researchers rely on experiments and observation to understand medication. They also use complex mathematics to understand drug data and to predict possible responses to medicines. Biomathematicians also apply mathematics to the understanding of the interaction of living things in biological systems.
Business analysis
Businesses usually want to improve their efficiency. But particularly in larger, more complicated businesses, it isnt always easy to understand how systems really work. Mathematical analysis can be applied to many aspects of business (production processes, transportation and storage of products, worker efficiency) to help identify places where improvements can be made.
Petroleum production
From exploration to transport, use and environmental impact, mathematics is an incredibly useful tool in the energy industry. In addition to understanding the financial side of the business, mathematics is used by geologists (experts in rocks, soil, and other features of land) to predict where oil might be located, how much there is, and how long it will last. Mathematics is also used to predict what may happen as oil becomes more difficult to find.
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Smart cities
By 2050, 70 per cent of the worlds population will live in cities. Experts say that we need to make the best use of technology to make these cities good places to live. So fast forward to 2050, and what do we see?
Green roofs
Most buildings in the smart city of 2050 have plants on the roof. Plants help keep the air clean, and they reduce flooding problems when heavy rain falls. They also absorb heat, which keeps cities in warm climates cooler. Some people grow fruit and vegetables for themselves, too.
Grey water
The smart city of 2050 wastes nothing. Rainwater is collected and used on gardens. Grey water water from showers and from washing up is recycled for rooftop plants and is also used for flushing toilets. Purifying water uses a lot of energy, so using grey water saves both water and energy.
Green power
In addition to the power generated using methane gas, wind and solar generation also powers the smart city. Computers monitor power use in the entire city and the electric power grid can respond to the need for power at any moment. When a lot of power is needed, the system can supply it, but when little power is needed, parts of the system shut down. This reduces energy waste.
Smart homes
Research shows that when people can see how much energy theyre using, they limit their energy use. The smart home of 2050 has an energy control panel. People can monitor their energy use and control heating and lighting.
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7 Studying technology
1 Answer the questions.
1 Can you name some types of technology that students study at colleges and universities in your country? 2 What areas of technology are you most interested in (medical, transport, computers, etc.)? 3 Name some ways that students can learn about job opportunities.
The UKs biggest tech careers fair and its free! Join us on 910 April at The London Tech Centre
Employers fair
More than 50 employers will present career opportunities to over 20,000 high school, college, and university students, as well as recent graduates from around the world. Fields represented include: computers and IT, telecommunications, sports technology, manufacturing, transport, entertainment, medical, energy, robotics, and more.
1 The Tech Education and Jobs Fair is an event where students and graduates can learn about places to work or to study. 2 The fair will present more than 20,000 jobs for graduates. 3 Graduates interested in companies that make things for example, cars would be interested in talking with some of the companies at the fair. 4 The fair will include some instruction on the skills you need to get a job. 5 The fair is only for people who are ready to begin working very soon. 6 Some companies plan to present the history of their recent products as well as stories from the past fifty years in technology.
Workshops
During the event, employers will discuss career development and conduct job interviews. Experts will offer workshops in CV writing, job interview skills, what to expect from a technology career, and stress management. There will also be hands-on workshops showing the latest computer-aided design technology.
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8 Design
1 Answer the questions.
1 What do you think are the design considerations for clothing and equipment for skydivers (people who jump out of aeroplanes)? 2 And considerations for clothing and equipment for astronauts? 3 What kind of emergency or safety equipment do you think space tourists will need? Think of the design considerations for equipment for people who are not highly trained.
1 About how far did Joe Kittinger fall before opening his parachute? 2 Did Kittinger set his records before or after the first human space flight? 3 Who wanted to learn more about high-altitude jumps? 4 As a jumper falls from the stratosphere to Earth, does the atmospheric pressure increase or decrease? 5 What chemical in air can cause serious medical problems during changes of pressure? 6 What is the amount of temperature change between the coldest and hottest outside temperature that the suit must operate in? 7 What makes the main parachute open automatically? 8 What medical information does the communication system record?
Oxygen supply
The suit has two tanks of 100% oxygen (not air, which is about 78% nitrogen). Breathing pure oxygen removes nitrogen gas from the skydivers body. This is because during changes in pressure, nitrogen bubbles in the body can cause serious medical problems.
Temperature control
The temperature outside the suit is between 68 C and 38 C. The suit is made of a super-insulating material that keeps the inside of the suit comfortable even as the outside temperature changes rapidly.
Parachute
The main parachute opens automatically, at about 750 metres above the Earth. A sensor detects the atmospheric pressure at that altitude. This means that if the skydiver is injured or unconscious, a safe landing is still possible.
Pressure
In the stratosphere the part of the atmosphere where Kittinger began his fall the air pressure is about 1/1,000th of the pressure at sea level and contains very little air. To avoid altitude sickness, the safety suit must have a pressure inside that is similar
Communications
In addition to a two-way radio, the suit includes instruments that measure the skydivers breathing, heart rate, speed, and angle of the body as it falls. The suit also includes a video camera.
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9 Technology in sport
1 How can clothing help athletes to
perform better?
High-tech sportswear
Sports companies are always trying to develop new sportswear that will allow athletes to perform more efciently. Recent developments include:
Precool vest
Nike has developed a vest which holds ice packs in its lining. It is designed for athletes who compete in marathons and other long distance races. Wearing it for one hour before the race will reduce the body temperature by 19%, and therefore reduces the risk of heat injury.
fastskin
Speedo has designed a swimsuit which it claims is the worlds fastest. The designers have worked with an expert on sharks famously fast swimmers of the sh world. The material copies features of Sharkskin and is designed to reduce drag. The makers say it can increase performance by up to 4%.
power socks
Adidas produces knee-length socks for runners which are designed to reduce leg fatigue. The socks save energy by compressing the muscles in the legs. This prevents the muscles vibrating each time the runners foot hits the ground. The vibration is a waste of energy.
swift suit
Adidas has designed an aerodynamic head-to-ankle suit for sprinters, cyclists, rowers, and ice-skaters. It keeps athletes cool and reduces drag. The designer claims it gives a ten-centimetre advantage in a 100-metre sprint.
strapless goggles
For swimmers, Nike has developed featherweight carbon goggles without straps. Each lens is stuck to the eye socket with medical glue. Having no straps, the goggles produce less drag than ordinary goggles.
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10 Appropriate technology
1 Study the diagram of this
a farming b exploding mines c travelling on the Moon d lming in dangerous places e carrying things wheel motor mechanical device. Choose its correct function. rubber shock absorber (inside wheel) 5-metre pole
4 Why do the wheels have steel teeth? 5 How often does a wheel have to be changed? 6 Why does the machine not miss any mine in its path?
Quantity 3
The device is called a Dervish. It is a mine-detonating vehicle for clearing anti-personnel mines from farmland in countries of the developing world. It has a very simple design and uses inexpensive parts. The United Nations estimates that 24,000 people die each year because of mines. The Dervish has three wheels. Each wheel has steel teeth to create more
pressure. When the teeth pass over a mine, it explodes. The wheels can explode around 1,500 mines before they have to be changed. A motorbike engine powers the Dervish. The device rotates. As each wheel passes a certain point in the rotation, it slows down. This makes the machine advance in tight circles, about 30 mm apart. For this reason, no mine in its path is missed.
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Shock tactics
The advanced taser gun is an electric stun gun which allows police to deal with violent people without causing injury or death. It has a laser sight to make sure the suspect is properly targeted. It uses a compressed air cartridge to re two darts at the suspect. The darts pull behind them ne electric cable. They can penetrate the thickest clothing, up to 5 centimetres, at a range of 6.4 metres. When the darts hit someone, the gun delivers a 50,000 volt shock for ve seconds. The shock causes temporary paralysis. Taser waves electrical signals cause the suspects muscles to contract. The guns contain a microchip which records the date and time of each ring.
The iris is the coloured ring round the central part of your eye. Each one is different, which makes it perfect for security systems such as iris scanning. First, your iris is scanned and the information converted to a digital le which is stored in a database. This process takes about three minutes. When you go to a high-security area, you simply look at a camera which scans your iris. The result is compared with your database entry. It takes just over a second to complete the check. The system is used at airports to speed passengers through passport control and to control entry to restricted areas. Some banks use it at ATM machines instead of PINs. Apart from the speed, the advantage is that users dont need to remember a password or key. The system can handle users wearing glasses, contact lenses, and also changes to the eye as people age. So far, its foolproof.
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Offender tracking consists of a small tracking unit worn on the belt or ankle. It uses global positioning system (GPS) technology to record the wearers movements. This data is fed to a server which matches movements with places. Some offenders are restricted to an area around their home. If they move outside that area, this is reported by email to the police. Some offenders are forbidden to enter certain areas. If they go there, this too is reported automatically to the police. The system also contains details of crimes. If an offender is near the scene of a crime at the time it takes place, a report is sent directly to the police.
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12 Transport
1 A hybrid results from combining
two different things. What two things are combined to make a hybrid car? Look at the diagram and check your answer. answers to these questions.
Hybrid cars
petrol engine battery
1 When is the petrol engine used alone? 2 When is the electric motor used alone? 3 When are both motors used? 4 What advantage does this car have over an electric car? 5 How is the battery charged? driving wheels electric motor
A hybrid-electric vehicle (HEV) has both a petrol engine and an electric motor. The petrol engine is the main power source. It is smaller and lighter than the engines of conventional cars. The electric motor provides extra power when needed. In some HEVs, it is connected to the wheels by the same transmission. In addition to a fuel tank, the HEV carries a pack of advanced batteries. There is also a processor which decides when to use the motor and engine. When the car is running at a constant speed cruising the petrol engine provides all the power required. For overtaking, hill climbing, and accelerating from a standstill, the electric motor provides extra power. In some cars, the motor also provides power for low-speed cruising, as petrol engines are least efcient in these conditions. HEVs use regenerative braking. When the driver brakes, the resistance of the motor helps to slow down the car. At the same time, the energy from the wheels turns the motor which then functions as a generator, producing electricity to recharge the batteries. When the batteries are low, the petrol engine also drives the generator. HEVs have automatic start / shutoff. The petrol engine shuts off when the car comes to a stop. When the driver presses the accelerator, the motor instantly starts the engine again. No energy is wasted from idling when the car is stopped. HEVs are more efcient and pollute less than cars with only petrol engines. They do not require special fuel like hydrogen cars and, unlike electric cars, they do not need to be plugged in overnight to recharge the batteries. However, they are heavy because of the weight of the batteries.
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1 What is the counterweight for? 2 What are the guide rails for? 3 What are the safety features?
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drive sheave
brake motor
controller
hoist ropes
buffers
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14 Information technology
1 Do you own or have you used
any gadgets with a touch screen? If so, what do you like about touch screen technology? Is there anything you dont like about it?
Touch screens
With tablets and smartphones, plastic keyboards seem a bit old-fashioned. So whats next for touch screens?
Todays touch screens are made of glass. Theyre flat like glass, and a bit cool like glass. If youre used to typing on a traditional keyboard, you may think touch screen typing isnt as nice. You dont feel a click when you press a key (though you can choose to hear one). Many people say this is a small problem compared with the great benefits of touch screen keyboards: theyre lightweight, easy-to-clean, and they disappear when you arent using them. Touch screens are here to stay, but researchers at a company called Tactus say that people like to feel things more that while touch screens are beautiful, real buttons are more user-friendly. These researchers are working to create tactile touch screens flat screens that can create raised buttons that users can temporarily feel. Small areas of the plastic screen inflate and then return to a flat surface. This sort of screen is still probably a few years away, but research and development teams are already working hard at producing it. The feeling of buttons may be just the beginning. Another team of researchers has announced a technology called REVEL that can create not only the feeling of a raised area, but also different textures, for example rough wood or smooth cloth. At the moment, this technology works only when the finger is moved across the screen. In this case, the screen itself doesnt change. It works by attaching a small electrical signal generator to a persons chair, or perhaps the inside of their shoe. When they touch certain objects, a small electrical signal travels through the body, and a small electrostatic force is created where the finger touches the screen. This creates the illusion of feeling. These two technologies will be useful not only in smartphones and tablets, but also in games, navigation equipment, and controls on electrical appliances. So, whats the future of the touch screen? It turns out it may be something you can feel, like an old-fashioned keyboard.
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15 Telecommunications
1 Have you heard of an Internet-ready fridge or 2 Read the text and choose the best phrase to
complete each sentence. 1 Internet-ready fridges can a make food last longer b order restaurant meals c send emails . Internet-ready washing machine? How do you think these home appliances use the Internet?
Telec mmunications
more than just TV and telephones
TVs and smartphones are getting smarter but fridges and washing machines now include computers and are Internet-ready
Many of us are used to getting an email or a text message saying Please pick up some milk on the way home. Soon, that message may not come from a friend, roommate, or spouse, but from the fridge. How does the Internet-ready fridge work? Products in the smart fridge have radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. These are small computer chips that store information, for example This is a two-litre carton of milk. It was manufactured on 22 September. With a built-in RFID reader, the fridge knows whats inside it at all times. You can set the fridge to send you an alert when theres only one carton of milk left. The smart fridge can also be programmed to keep a list of products that you need, and place an order with the supermarket for delivery when certain products are about to run out. An app on your smartphone allows you to check the contents of your fridge from anywhere. The smart fridge also communicates with the electrical power company. Some companies charge different rates for power at different times of day. The fridge receives signals from the power company when electricity rates are higher, and switches to a lowenergy mode for brief periods. Its easy to see the benefits of an Internet-ready fridge, but what about an Internet-ready washing machine? Korean appliance maker LG already produces one. If theres a problem with the machine, it sends you a message with a full explanation. If you need to deal with particular stains in clothing, you can download a special wash cycle to solve the problem. The product line also includes an oven that can download recipes and cooking instructions, and will send you a message when a meal is cooked and is ready to be taken out of the oven.
2 Smart fridges can provide information about . a foods with RFID tags b any food they store c fresh foods only 3 A smart fridge might communicate . with a your doctor b the supermarket c your childrens school 4 The smart fridge app could tell you . a what to cook b whats in the fridge c how many calories are in your food 5 The smart fridge is designed to a be energy efficient b be solar powered c recycle food waste 6 Internet-ready washing machines . a monitor water prices b use special soap products c download information .
1 Basic appliances such as fridges and washing machines shouldnt have computers in them. It makes them expensive and difficult to repair. 2 Soon, there will be an Internet of things. Cars, fridges, ovens, washing machines, and other appliances will all use the Internet to communicate with each other, and with people. 3 The Internet is the greatest invention in the history of the world.
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16 Medical technology
1 Answer the questions.
1 The afx tele- means distant. What do you think these terms mean? a telemedicine b telecare c telesurgery 2 What sort of technology would be needed for each of the services described by these terms? 3 Who might benet from these services?
Telemedicine is the application of Information Technology to medical care. Its about providing medical support at a distance to people who have no access to a doctor. Using the Internet, satellite phones, video links, and digital cameras, patients, nurses, doctors, and others can obtain specialist help quickly. If passengers fall ill on an aircraft in flight, cabin crew can use a device called Vital Signs to measure blood pressure and other important signs. The data can then be transmitted to a doctor to interpret and provide advice on treatment. Medical images, such as X-rays or ultrasound scans, can be taken in one country and sent by broadband to a specialist in another for expert advice. Using a video link, nurses in a minor injuries clinic can call a specialist to examine difcult cases remotely. This is much cheaper than having a specialist available in the clinic. Telecare is a way of looking after vulnerable people, such as the elderly, at a distance. Sensors in their homes can detect falls, lack of activity, or even if food is removed from the refrigerator. Lack of movement triggers an alarm which alerts medical staff or relatives. Patients can wear monitors for recording their pulse and other signs. This can be sent via a telephone system to medical staff without the patient leaving home. Telesurgery was used in 2001 to allow a surgeon in New York to operate on a patient in France. The operation was carried out using a high-speed computer link and robotic tools in the French operating theatre. At this stage, such procedures are expensive, and a local surgeon has to be present in case the network link fails. In the future, however, telesurgery could be a life-saver for people living, working, or travelling remote from medical help.
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18 Ways in to technology
1 Answer the questions.
1 What science and technology projects do you remember from your school days? 2 Do universities, companies or professional organizations in your country hold science or technology contests? If so, can you say anything about them? 3 If you could do any kind of research project in technology, what area of study would you choose?
WAYS IN TO TECHNOLOGY
The World Science and Technology Contest
Three participants in the World Science and Technology Contest explain their projects
The World Science and Technology Contest (WSTC) invites students from around the world to submit a research project. The winning project is paid for and run by the WSTC and its partners in industry, and the winning applicant given further training and an apprenticeship. Here are three of this years entries:
Research question: Are there connections between the sound of a persons voice and the appearance of a persons face? Where the idea came from: Watching TV, I started to wonder if people who look alike also sound the same. In some cases, it seems to be true. For example, my brother looks a lot like a famous newsreader, and their voices are similar. Practical application for this research: Some security systems use face recognition and voice recognition. If there are connections between faces and voices, then the system could detect people who are trying to fool it. Research question: Why are some noises extremely unpleasant? Where the idea came from: When I hear the loud, squealing sound of the brakes on a lorry in the street, I hate it. It gives me a really bad feeling. But thats strange, isnt it? How can a sound cause a feeling and such a strong feeling? Name: Lin Lo-Chi Country: Taiwan Course of study: Biology at National Taiwan University Practical application for this research: If we understand more about the way sounds affect people, sounds could be used to help people have positive feelings. Also, negative sounds could be used to break up crowds without hurting anyone. People would want to leave the area just because of the sound. Research question: How does the colour of industrial machines affect the people who work with them? Where the idea came from: My brother recently bought a new car. He had a hard time choosing the colour, because he felt it was an expression of his personality. He felt it was an important decision because we have strong feelings about colour. Machines in factories are usually painted for safety to make them highly visible and also for protection of the machine, for example against rust. Practical application for this research: We might find that certain colours of machine paint make workers more alert, or perhaps less stressed. This could be a type of safety improvement, and also might improve productivity.
Name: Abdullah Al Ansari Country: Saudi Arabia Course of study: Computer Science at Saudi Electronic University
1 The WSTC is designed to help students pass exams. 2 Abdullahs project could help make banks or government buildings safer from crime. 3 Lo-Chis project is designed to learn more about the bad behaviour of teenage boys. 4 The police might find some of Lo-Chis research results useful. 5 Michels project may help designers choose better paint for automobiles. 6 Michels project could improve the work environment of factory workers.
Name: Michel Fabi Country: Belgium Course of study: Industrial Design at Lacambre Visual Arts School
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What is permaculture?
Permaculture is an approach to growing food. It aims to develop sustainable systems of agriculture.
So first, lets consider water. On this farm, theyve set up a system to harvest rainwater when it does fall. They can store the water, and they use it in a way that reduces evaporation. It is fed to the plants in a steady drip. They also use some water from a well on the farm. So its local ground water. The plants are arranged so that the ones that need the most water are nearest to the source of the water. This reduces waste. Second, plants. The farm has olive trees and date palms they both love the dry climate. These help shelter and protect other smaller plants tomatoes, onions, garlic, and so on from the Sun. In fact, the variety of plants is really important. In this area, farmers usually grow just one type of plant at a time. Which brings me to my third point, soil. Growing just one type of plant is terrible for the soil. Growing a variety of plants actually helps the soil. Also, the farm has chickens, sheep, ducks, and other animals. Waste from the animals, plus waste from the plants, is used to feed the soil. All of the energy and chemicals that the soil needs come from this waste material. Theres no need to use chemical fertilizers. Finally, consumption. The food grown on this farm is eaten locally. That means they dont use energy bringing some foods into the area, and they dont use energy transporting farm produce out of the area. Its very efficient.
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20 Plastics
1 Answer the questions.
1 What plastic objects do you have with you, or can you see around you, right now? 2 Could any of those objects possibly be made of a different material? What material would work? 3 Have you heard anything about 3-D printers? If so, what do you know about them? If not, can you guess what a 3-D printer might do?
3-D printing
Turning computer images into plastic models
Since the 1990s, engineers have used 3-D printing to make models of complex designs. More recently, 3-D printing has been used to make objects for actual use, not just models. For example, doctors have used 3-D printing to make artificial body parts such as bones and joints. The process called rapid prototyping is still not widely used. But its becoming more common and techniques are being improved constantly. And now, three-dimensional printing at home is a reality. You buy and bring home a 3-D printer, download a design from the Internet, and create plastic objects in your own home. Heres what you do:
1 2
were the first people to use 3-D printing. now use 3-D printing to make objects that injured people need.
1 Prepare the printer by loading it with plastic wire. The wire comes in ten 2 Search the Internet for designs of objects that can be 3-D printed. Printer 3 Using the 3-D printers software, convert the design to a set of 4 Press Print and watch the printer create your design. 5 Let the plastic cool off, and enjoy your creation.
manufacturer Cubify has a wide selection at cubify.com, and others are available elsewhere. Designs include toys and games, jewellery, cups, lampshades, and many other things. colours. You also have to spread glue on the print platform.
3 A 3-D printer uses coloured plastic to make objects. 4 can be downloaded from the Internet.
5 The printers software creates for building objects. arent solid 6 The plastic theyre hollow. 7 for the home dont make useful objects at the moment. what would you use it to make?
instructions for building the object. The software works out any special supports that might be needed as the object is printed.
So how does it work? The printer heats the plastic wire until its soft. The printer tip is heated to 300 C, so when the plastic passes through it, it becomes even softer. The software tells the tip of the printer where to move to build up the object line-by-line. The printer tip can move up, down, and sideways, so it can go anywhere the software tells it to. The 3-D printer doesnt make solid plastic objects. Instead, they are mostly hollow, with a kind of grid structure between the two walls of plastic. This makes the object strong and lightweight, and also reduces the amount of plastic needed to print it. Theres an important difference between 3-D printing in medicine and industry and 3-D printing at home: engineers and doctors use it to create things they really need. But for now, at least, the things you can print in plastic at home arent especially useful.
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21 Alternative energy
1 Imagine you are planning to start a
community of about 10,000 people on an island in the middle of the ocean. Answer the questions.
El Hierro
1 What would be the best way to supply electrical power to the island? 2 What would be the most efficient way to feed the community? 3 How would you deal with the islands waste?
19 from the text with the facts ai. Give the unit.
a amount of time that the wind blows every year in El Hierro unit: b elevation of El Hierros waterstorage lake unit: c distance from El Hierro to the mainland unit: d the amount of oil that the island isnt using now unit: e The number of residents of El Hierro unit: f the amount of money that the island isnt spending on oil unit: g power production of El Hierros wind farm unit: h volume of El Hierros water-storage lake unit: i the amount of time the hydroelectric system can power the island unit:
power generation like El Hierros could work for your city? Why? / Why not?
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22 Mass transportation
1 Answer the questions.
1 What types of transport do you use regularly? 2 If you use mass transportation, what do you like about it? What do you dislike? 3 If you dont use mass transportation, why dont you?
Challenges
Hydrogen doesnt occur naturally on Earth it must be produced. At the moment, hydrogen is mostly produced by using methane (a powerful greenhouse gas) or other fossil fuels, which produce CO2. Also, the equipment required to produce and safely store hydrogen is large and complex too big to fit on most vehicles. Researchers working on hydrogen power are trying to develop technology that will make hydrogen power more mobile for use in vehicles. Theyre also trying to find practical ways to produce it without fossil fuels.
Hydrogen trains
Researchers in several countries have independently announced the development of hydrogen-powered trains. Trains are ideal for hydrogen fuel cells because they have a lot of storage space on board, and they also stop routinely at stations. Station stops for hydrogen trains would allow frequent refuelling. This would mean that the large and complex hydrogen-production equipment could remain in fixed locations.
cells for cars would be useful technology, or is researching them a waste of time?
H H
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23 Petroleum engineering
1 Answer the questions.
1 The world is facing an energy crisis. What potential alternative energy sources do you know about? 2 What sources does your country rely on for energy? 3 What environmental problems can be caused by the energy industry?
Shale gas
Energy solution or environmental nightmare?
Fracking could solve a lot of energy problems, but many people say it isnt safe
In April 2011, a small earthquake shook the English seaside resort of Blackpool. The following month, there was another. The earthquakes didnt do a lot of damage, but they worried people. Geologists said there was a direct connection between the earthquakes and nearby gas exploration. The exploration work was stopped for a year, but has since been allowed to continue.
What is fracking?
Fracking is short for hydraulic fracturing. Water under pressure is used to create cracks in shale the rock that contains the gas. The water, containing sand and a mixture of chemicals, is forced into steel pipes that have been placed into the ground.
energy.
6 A lot of people are worried about the caused by fracking. a smell b pollution c extremely loud noises continue. 7 Fracking a will probably not b cant legally c is expected to
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24 Environmental engineering
1 Answer the questions.
1 What causes global warming? 2 What are people (including companies and governments) doing to address the problem of global warming? 3 Do you think we will be able to save the planet before we have very serious problems?
1 CO2 attracts heat from space and transfers it to the Earth. 2 Scientists are working on a plan to slightly shade the Earth from the Sun. 3 Volcanoes are a dangerous source of heat that is causing global warming. 4 Scientists are experimenting with the best way to put more sulphur dioxide in the atmosphere. 5 Many people worry that a solution to global warming based on the reaction of sulphur could make problems worse. 6 Scientists believe using sulphuric acid is a safe solution to global warming.
volcanoes are a good solution to the problem of global warming? Why? / Why not?
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25 Robotics
1 Answer the questions.
1 Think of some examples of robots in science fiction books or films (for example, Star Wars). Describe them. 2 What household job would you like to have a robot to do for you? 3 Do you think robots could cause problems for people in the future? If so, how?
1 All three robots have features that work like, or are modelled on, a living thing. What are they? 2 Only one robot can move around on its own. Which one is it? 3 Which robot doesnt interact with its environment very much, at least at the moment? 4 Which robot probably looks the least like a living thing?
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26 Defence technology
1 Answer these questions.
1 How do wild animals make themselves less visible to enemies? 2 If you want to make yourself less noticeable in a crowd, what can you do? 3 What techniques does the military use to hide things from enemies?
fighting. These simple techniques are still used today, but technology offers many more sophisticated ways of hiding.
1 Optical camouflage is a special type of cloth that produces colours and images. 2 Marine biologists have successfully created a submarine that changes colour to match its environment. 3 Scientists have discovered crystals that could make buildings almost invisible. 4 Researchers have made dead tissue transparent, and may one day make living tissue transparent. 5 Nowadays, the most widely used technique for concealing military equipment and personnel is very high tech.
Invisible clothes
Who wouldnt want an invisibility suit? This isnt yet possible, but researchers have discovered that they can create a type of optical camouflage. Heres how: the person who wants to disappear wears clothing in a solid, light colour. Cameras film the area behind the person, and this background image is projected onto the front of the person. When you look at the person from the front, you can see the background projected on the person, and they becme difficult to see.
can bend and reflect light. In theory, if you covered an entire building in these crystals, they could reflect the light in such a way that the building would be very difficult to see. Thats probably not practical for citycentre buildings, but the military is definitely interested.
Transparent people
Brain scientists have created a chemical that makes brain tissue transparent. Researchers have made small pieces of mouse brain tissue completely see-through, which aids their research. Would it be possible to turn an entire living creature transparent? At the moment, were not even close. The chemical used on mouse brains is toxic, and not used on living creatures. However, scientists have already discovered a milder chemical that may have the same effect.
Hidden submarines
Sea creatures such as the octopus and cuttlefish can change the colour of their skin to blend in with the background. Their skin contains chemicals that make this possible. Marine biologists are now working with the military to understand exactly how some fish can change colour in an attempt to figure out how navy submarines could be made to do the same thing. This research is still in the very early stages.
you would like to make invisible? Why would you like to make it invisible?
Disappearing buildings
Architects and town planners often talk about the visual impact of a structure will a new building make the city more beautiful, or will people complain because its ugly? Optical science researchers have discovered that some tiny crystals
Writing bank32
Writing bank
: :
: :
::
::
Cc: Cc:
Cc: Cc:
Emails
1 Mark each statement T (true) or
F (false). 1 If you know the recipient well, you Cc: can leave out the opening greeting and complimentary close. 2 Emoticons :-) J can be used in any type of email. 3 To stress a word, write it in CAPITAL LETTERS. 4 You should keep your message short. 5 Its not necessary to answer an email quickly. 6 You should never write something you dont want others to see. 7 You should try to be amusing.
: Cc: : : : : Cc: Cc:
[FACS: email ]
: :
: :
1 Carol Larque :
: Cc: : Cc: Cc:
: : :
Cc: : :
Cc:
Dear Mr
Schwandner 3
: Cc:
I was interested to read the article in the Engineering and Technology Journal last month about the revolutionary earplug you have developed.4
:
I work for a woodworking company in central Sweden and I would be grateful if you could let us have technical details of this product as well as price and minimum order requirements.5 I look forward to hearing from you.6 Carol Larque Health and Safety Ofcer 7
2 Who is Hartmut Schwandner? 3 What does Carol want? 4 Why does she tell Hartmut where she works?
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:
: : Cc:
:: :
[FACS: email ]
: :
1 How does Per begin the main body of the email? 2 How does Per make polite requests? 3 How do Per and Larrie open and close their emails? Which one of them knows the person they are writing to?
Cc:
Security cameras
Dear Ken Following our telephone conversation this morning regarding the installation of security cameras at your factory, I would be grateful if you could send me a detailed map of the premises. We need to be able to assess how many cameras we would need to cover your premises and the most suitable places to fix them so that the whole area can be seen. Can you also indicate on the map where you would like the monitors to be placed? For example, you could have them in the reception area or main office where they are constantly on view. Best wishes Per :
: Cc: Cc: : Cc: : : : : Cc: Cc: : : Cc: :
technical information about the heat pumps advertised in The Energy Journal last week. You also want to know about the cost and details for installing them. You think you could install it yourself. Ask about the length of the guarantee. Write 7090 words.
:
: : Cc: ::
:: :
[FACS: email ]
: :
Larrie Dale
: info@barrierdesigns.com : Cc:
Cc:
Catalogue
If you are looking for a safe and environmentally-friendly alternative to fossil fuels, heat pumps are the answer. Heat pumps provide a safe solution to heating the house and reduce costs by up to 70% . For more information, contact Steve Ford. SF@heatpumps.com
2 Write an email to Plastics Incorporated asking for details of their apprenticeship or young graduate schemes. Write 3550 words.
Dear Sir/Madam As a consultant to the oil industry I am very interested in your safety products. Could you please send me your catalogue and latest price list? We are particularly interested in providing our customers with effective gas detection systems. I look forward to hearing from you. Yours faithfully Larrie Dale Dale Products Tel: 001 519 1557 323232 24 Alberta Road, Newington, London, Ontario
Writing bank34
Describing graphs
1 Complete the tables with the
words below.
Fig. 1
The temperature
rose slightly.
considerably increased decreased moderately dropped sharp Fig. 2 gradually slowly growth steep increase went up
There was a
dramatic rise
Rice production
fell significantly.
Fig. 4
WORLD ENERGY CONSUMPTION
45,00 40,00 MILLION BILLION JOULES 35,00 30,00 25,00 20,00 5,00 0,00 5,000 0 950 960 970 980 990 2000 200
The graph in Fig. 4 shows how much energy from different sources was used between 1950 and 2005. We can see that over this period the amount of energy used increased sharply, and the largest amount of energy came from petroleum. In 1950, just over 13,000 million billion Joules were used, but this gure rose sharply to reach a peak of roughly 40,000 million billion Joules in 1978. There was a dramatic fall to just over 30,000 million billion in the following ve years, before
coal natural gas petroleum nuclear electric power conventional hydroelectric power wood, waste, alcohol geothermal solar wind
year
rising rapidly to reach 42,000 million billion Joules by 2005. The second and third largest sources of energy were natural gas and coal, which each accounted for about 25,000 million billion Joules in 2005. The graph shows that insignicant amounts of energy came from renewable sources
during this time, but there was a growth in the amount of nuclear electric power after 1970, reaching approximately 8,000 million billion Joules in 2005. The fall in energy consumption in the years around 1980 was probably due to the world oil crisis.
Writing bank35
Fig. 5
The pie charts compare the use of different modes of passenger and cargo transportation in Croatia. It can be seen that more than half of all passengers choose to travel by road, accounting for 58%, while just under half of all cargo is carried by road. About a third of all passengers use rail transport but only 11% of Croatias cargo goes by rail. Croatia has a long coastline, and just under a third of Croatias cargo is transported by sea. However, only 9% of passengers use this form of transport. This is probably because sea transport is cheaper for cargo but too slow for passengers. Pipeline and inland water transportation account for 8% and 1% of cargo transportation, respectively.
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Clipboard to write a description of the graph in Fig. 6. In your rst sentence, describe what the graph is about by using the title, X, and Y axes. In the second sentence, give an overview of the trends shown in the graph. Then describe the graph in more detail. Write 80100 words.
Fig. 6
4,000
3,000 2,000 1,000 0 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 YEAR CONSUMPTION
PRODUCTION Clipboard Language for describing graphs The graph shows The graph provides information about The chart compares Between and 6 From to 6 Over this period In 5 During this time Reach a peak Account for Fig. 7
WHY PEOPLE USE PUBLIC TRANSPORT
method of transport used by students to get to class. Display the results in a pie chart and then write a description.
34% TO AND FROM WORK 3% WORK RELATED 13% SHOPPING 11% FAMILY / PERSONAL BUSINESS 13% SCHOOL / CHURCH 5% MEDICAL / DENTAL 2% VACATION 8% VISIT FRIEND 11% SOCIAL RECREATIONAL
Writing bank37
CV (Curriculum Vitae)
1 Read Marcs CV. He is applying for
graduate schemes specializing in Environmental Consultancy and Impact Assessment. Answer the questions.
Marc Foster D.O.B. 03.06.1986 Email: mfoster@worldwide.co.uk Tel: home 01295 670026 Nationality: British
mobile 07884128831
1 Which school did he go to? 2 What subjects did he study at school? 3 Which university did he study at? 4 What subject did he study? 5 What did he do while he was in Germany? 6 Where is the Eden Project? 7 What did he do there? 8 What does he think his strengths are? 9 What does he do in his free time?
Prole I am a highly-motivated and hard-working young graduate with excellent academic qualications and appropriate work experience in the eld of ecology. I work very well in a team, have excellent communication and organizational skills, and enjoy encouraging and motivating others, including children. Education and qualications 2005 2008 University of Leeds BSc (Hons) 2.1 Environmental Biogeoscience My personal research project on collecting biodata in the river Danube oodplain is to be published by the Worldwide Fund for Nature in their quarterly magazine. Modules studied Environmental Risk: Science, Policy, and Management Air quality: Science and Policy Earth System Science: Biochemical Cycles Soils and Environmental Change Sustainable Development: Challenges and Practice 1998 2005 Polam Hall School, Darlington A2 level: Chemistry (B), Mathematics (A), Biology (B) AS level: Business Studies (C), General Studies (B) 9 GCSE grades: 2A*, 4A, 2B, 1C Work Experience July/August 2006, 2007 Worldwide Fund for Nature, Germany Total of 12 weeks spent assisting with species and habitat management, surveying and monitoring activities, and the collection of biodata. This provided valuable experience of ecosystems as well as working in an international team. Summer 2004, 2005 The Eden Project, Cornwall Summer assistant with responsibility for selling tickets, guiding visitors around the centre, and assisting with educational activities for children. This helped me develop my skills in working with children and members of the public, as well as explaining issues related to the environment. Interests I take great pleasure in travelling to experience different cultures, meet new people, and learn from new experiences. I enjoy playing the piano and singing. I have been a member of the university operatic society for the last three years.
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Memos
1 Read the memo and find the
answers to these questions. 1 What is the purpose of the memo? 2 How will apprentices be chosen? 3 What should the team leaders in the Maintenance Department do now?
KEY S T O N E E N G I N E E R I N G
122 128 Highland Street Newby Tel: 0044 547 222234 email: enquiries@keystone.co.uk
Memo Clipboard A memo is an internal company document that is normally impersonal and formal in style. It can be sent to one person or a number of people within the organization and may be put on a noticeboard. It should: state who it is to state who it is from have a title explaining what it is about, and a date state the purpose in the opening paragraph be as brief as possible.
A decision has been made by senior management that apprenticeships for six Maintenance Technicians will be made available to start in September 20. Advertisements inviting applicants will be placed in national newspapers in June. Interviews will be arranged for the week beginning 3 July. The apprenticeships will be for three years and will consist of on-the-job training under supervision in the Maintenance Department and day release one day a week to the local college. Would team leaders please attend a meeting in Room D on Thursday 17 May at 9 a.m. to discuss possible skilled supervisors for the apprentices and the apprentices work rotation.
To From Subject
Maintenance Department Training Manager Six apprenticeship places starting September 20 14 May 20
Date
Writing bank39
Kirby Components
Kirby North Industrial Estate Kirby
a all transport vehicles will be tted with GPS navigation system equipment b Short brieng courses c Would all drivers please sign up d Memo e to improve the efciency of our delivery service f Transport Department
working in the Food Department at Briteways Supermarket. Use the notes in A below. Provide a company address, date, etc. Write 80100 words.
As part of the company efciency programme, over the next few weeks. This equipment will allow drivers to nd their way to delivery addresses more quickly and
2 Start Engineering have recently signed a contract with a German company, Poch AG, to supply them with components for the next three years. A group of Senior Managers from the company are coming to visit Start Engineering. Write a memo to all staff using the notes in B below. Write 7090 words. A
4.
manager.
Change in fruit and vegetable packaging will stop using plastic trays New trays compostable, starting next month Less attractive so staff need to reassure customers Company advertising campaign to promote them as environmentally-friendly next month Everyone to attend short training session Friday 1p.m., Room D Those unable to attend, speak to line manager
visit 10 13 April be prepared to answer technical questions be helpful be prepared to explain production procedures be informative arrange lunch and rest breaks so there is always someone available to answer any technical questions
Writing bank40
Instructions
1 Match the hand signals with the
instructions to the driver. Lower Move forward Move backwards Raise Stop C
extinguisher? Would you use the same extinguisher for an electrical re as for a paper re? Why? / Why not? Find the nearest re extinguisher to your room and read the type of re it is suitable for. Use the words below to complete the instructions for using a re extinguisher. Aim Point Be Pull out Call Release Choose Squeeze Fight Sweep Hold
1 a re if there is
4 the pin 5 the nozzle away from you 6 the locking mechanism 7 low
Writing bank41
how to make a solar oven. Write a set of instructions on how to build a solar oven to accompany the illustrations. Include all the parts and materials from this list: main structure plywood or other board material interior black painted metal lid glass reective panels aluminium foil corrugated cardboard Write 5070 words.
Clipboard Useful verbs Place Attach Connect Cut Paint Measure Cover Use Estimate Fix Calculate Try to 4
Writing bank42
Abdul Azizi
Address Flat 267, Block 65, New City, Birmingham Phone number Age Female/Male Job title Who was the injured person? Employee On training scheme On work experience Employed by someone else Self-employed Member of the public Kind of accident Contact with moving machinery Hit by moving object Hit by moving vehicle Hit something xed Injured while handling, lifting, carrying Slipped, tripped, fell Trapped Drowned
Clipboard Language of injuries He cut his hand and needed stitches. She broke her leg / had a broken leg. He was knocked unconscious. He burnt his arm. She has a bruised face. He was knocked down by a car. He slipped on / tripped over ... He suffered a major injury / a broken neck.
When we write an incident report we use past tenses. Jolan Balog saw .. . Past Simple Abdul was hit ... Past Simple (Passive) Abdul had entered . . . Past Perfect
Exposed to harmful substances Exposed to re Exposed to electricity Injured by animal Physically assaulted by a person
Abdul was hit by a moving dumper truck which was carrying earth on the construction site in Main Road. The truck driver did not see Abdul, who had entered the site. Jolan Balog, Site Foreman, saw the accident and called an ambulance. Jolan and two other workers stayed with Abdul until the ambulance arrived. At hospital, Abdul was X-rayed and found to have a broken leg and bruised arms.
Writing bank43
involved in an accident at work during his training in electrical installation. Look at the pictures below, and then ll in the report form. Use imaginary personal details for Dan. Use the expressions in Clipboard on p.42 and the Past Simple to describe his injuries. Write 6080 words.
About you, the person lling in the report Name Address Occupation Signature About the accident When did it happen? Date Where did it happen? How did it happen and why?
About the person who had the accident Name Address Occupation
Report number
Date
Time
Give details of any injury suffered and treatment given _____________________________________________________________ Give any recommendations to avoid similar accidents occurring _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________
Vehicle access points to the site were constantly open and unmanned.
Site should be securely fenced off to prevent unauthorized access by members of the public. Any breaks should be xed immediately.
7.0 Recommendations
7.1 7.2
Writing bank44
Reports
1 Complete the short description of
what reports are for with the words below.
2 Because rain only falls during certain months of the year and
3 Appendix 1.1 table showing comparative gures 4 2.0 Treadle pump 2.1 Operation The treadle pump is operated by a person using his/her body weight and leg muscles in a walking movement to pump the water. ... The pump consists of two pistons positioned inside two cylinders. ... 5 Summary
1.0 Introduction 2.0 Treadle pump 2.1 Operation 2.2 Costs 3.0 Diesel pump 3.1 Operation 3.2 Costs 4.0 Comparison 5.0 Recommendation and conclusions 6.0 References Appendices: Appendix 1.1
people who require the information. It should be as long as necessary and as short as
5!
Match the items ag with the extracts 17. Two have been done for you.
a Title b Table of contents c Introduction d Body of the report e Comparison f Summary and Conclusion g References 3 6
Writing bank45
This report compares fourteen different practical measures that can be taken in order to nd the most effective way to reduce the costs of heating an average home in Britain and reduce carbon emissions. To achieve this, the research compares the cost of installation, the number of years required to pay back the investment cost, and the amount of carbon saved each year. The study shows that the cost of insulating loft and walls is recovered within three years but saves only a small amount of carbon. Although it takes approximately thirteen years to pay back the cost of installing a ground source heat pump, it saves the maximum amount of carbon and is, therefore, the best long-term solution. Based on the research, we recommend that, where possible, new homes are tted with ground source heat pumps.
Two possible bridge designs Steel beam bridge and composite girder bridge
Dual carriageway total 4 lanes to cross River Dee, north Scotland Span 132 metres between man-made compacted ll embankments Soil conditions uncertain 16 metres above water level Gradient 0.07m/m Criteria: Method of construction Costs of construction and maintenance Aesthetics Durability Include: Sketches of elevations and cross-sections Costing calculations Time scale Comparison: Both bridges need piers on piled foundations due to soil Design 2 made of steel so longer spans but we recommend design 1 Recommend: Design 1 minimal framework in construction Easy to erect Cheaper More durable
Background: