English for business studies II (B2)

ENGLISH FOR BUSINESS STUDIES II

1º(E-2/E-2 BILINGÜE/E-3/E-4/GITI+ADE/GP+ADE) - 2º E-6

Nivel B2

INSTITUTO DE IDIOMAS MODERNOS



ENGLISH FOR BUSINESS STUDIES II

Compiled by Virginia Esteve



ENGLISH FOR BUSINESS STUDIES II

Contact information

Teacher:

Office:

Phone 91 542 2800 Ext. __________

E-Mail:

Technology Requirements:

Technology Use

E-mail If there is an exam, a graded class activity or an oral task, you will be expected to be

present. If you are ill or cannot be present on the day the activity is scheduled for a

justifiable reason, you are expected to inform the teacher BEFORE not AFTER the

activity either personally or via e-mail.

If you cannot hand in an assigned task in person, you can send it as an attachment via

e-mail.

Moodlerooms You will be expected to use the Moodlerooms Virtual Learning Platform to download

Virtual reading materials which are necessary to complete some course assignments, do
Learning listenings and videos or access links which you will need to correct some of the work
Platform assigned. If you have any problems accessing the materials, notify your teacher.

Class norms No points are given for simply attending class. However, all the work done in class and
Attendance collected will count towards your continuous assessment grade.
Students are expected to meet deadlines. Points will be deducted for late work or it
Deadlines Late may not be accepted at all. Once homework exercises have been corrected and
work returned, no more exercises will be taken in.
Copying a text entirely or in part considered plagiarism and will receive an automatic
Academic 0. Likewise, copying another student’s work will be graded with a -1 (both the copier
integrity and the person he/she copied from).

English for Busi

Table of C

UNIT TOPIC LISTENING & READING LANGU

1 Letters of enquiry and Videos- Layout of a letter, Doing an  Formal vs. inf
internship. Writing a cover
reply  Word order in
letter.
Professional Emails questions
Correspondence

2 Trends and graphs Videos –Inflation and bubbles;  USED TO
Trends Asia’s growing economic  Linking words
power; 200 Countries, 200
3 RESULT
Company Years, 4 Minutes;
accounts Review of:
Key financial statements Listening: Baruch College  Use of LET-E
4  balance sheet Introduction to Financial  Review: defin
Company  profit & loss account statements – Multimedia
performance relative clau
presentation active/passi
Readings: Show me the money;  Embedded q
within statem
End of year results Video: BT Chairman’s Review of:
SWOTand PESTLE presentation of its quarterly  Connectors o
addition, co
analysis results comparison
 Language of
Readings: Excerpts from the nouns, prep
Chairman’s letter

REVISION

Appendix 1 Gramma

Appendix 2

Supplementary materials, exercises, links to dictionaries, etc. are ava

iness Studies II

Contents VOCABULARY LANGUAGE SKILLS TO BE
DEVELOPED
UAGE USE

formal register  Useful letter-writing expressions The student will be:
n polite indirect
 Internet vocabulary and  aware of informal and formal register.
abbreviations
 able to draft short emails, a letter of
 REQUEST-REQUIRE-ENQUIRE enquiry, reply and application using the
appropriate register.

s of CAUSE &  Nominalization The student will be able to:

 UP-DOWN Expressions to describe  Interpret and write a description using info.
changes over time in a graph from graphs, providing reasons for the
changes
 RISE-RAISE-ARISE

ENABLE-ALLOW  Key accounting terms The student will be able to:
ning and non-defining  Verbs to describe the contents and  take notes and explain them to another
uses; reduced
ive relative clauses the parts of a financial statement student
questions (questions  Verbs to refer to data in a table,  paraphrase
ments)  describe key financial statements
chart or graph
of cause, result, The student will be able to:
oncession,  Verbs to refer to data in a table,  report orally on a company’s
n and contrast chart or graph
performance and current financial
change (verbs,  Language to describe data in pie situation
positions ) charts, line graphs and bar graphs

 Review of figures and how to write
and say them

N Units 1-4

ar and Language Use

2 Worksheets

ailable for each module in the Moodlerooms Virtual Learning Platform.

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Attendance

According to Article 93 of the General Academic Norms of the Universidad Pontificia Comillas, students are
required to attend class. Students who miss more than a third of the class sessions, o a smaller number if so
established in the academic norms of the Faculty or School, may not be allowed to take the final exam during
the first exam sitting at the end of the academic year.

Assessed activities CRITERIA Weight
- Prior preparation of any materials needed to carry out the work to
Oral activities and be done in class. 15%
written exercises done - Submission of course and homework assignments
inside and outside the - Use of English in the classroom and when doing group work. 10%
classroom - Quality of the information presented. 15%
- Ability to interact with the teacher and classmates at the right 10%
Assessed oral tasks moment using an appropriate register. 50%
(presentation, oral - Grammar, syntax, vocabulary, content and accuracy of work
interview with the handed in.
teacher, information - Submission of work on time.
exchange, debates)
Quizzes and tests - Quality and organization of the information
- Accurate use of language, vocabulary and grammar
Writing tasks - Pronunciation
- Ability to communicate with verbal and non-verbal language.
Final exam
- Ability to use the correct vocabulary.
- Knowledge of the topics covered during the course.
- Correct use of language (grammar, syntax, and spelling).
- Presentation and structure: structure of paragraph or structure
(topic sentence, development, cohesive devices and conclusion).
- Quality and clarity of information presented.
- Correct use of language (grammar, syntax and spelling).
- Correct use of vocabulary.
- Use of appropriate register.
- Submission of work on time.
- Mastery of key concepts
- Correct language use (grammar, syntax and spelling)
- Knowledge of vocabulary
- Clarity of written expression
- Use of appropriate register
- Reading comprehension

Assessment

Continuous assessment and final exam

Fifty percent of the final grade is based on continuous assessment, which reflects the student’s performance
throughout the course. This continuous assessment mark, as its name clearly indicates, corresponds to the
work done throughout the semester and the student will not be able to make up this work on the day of the
first sitting of the final exam.

Any work that is partly or entirely copied from another source will be considered plagiarism and will receive
an automatic 0. Likewise, copying another student’s work will be graded with a -1 (both the copier and the
person he/she copied from).

If a student is unable to attend on a day of a graded activity, s/he must inform the teacher personally or via
email BEFORE, not after the activity has been done. Any assignment, exercise, or quiz not done or not
submitted on the date established will be marked down as a 0, unless the student informs the tutor of his/her
school or faculty, who is responsible for informing the teacher if an absence is justified.

The remaining 50 % of the final mark will be based on a final written exam in the first sitting. Therefore, a
student must obtain a passing mark on both the continuous assessment and the final exam in order to pass
the subject, which will be calculated as follows:

 the continuous assessment based on the assessed activities done throughout the course (personal work
/ writing assignments / oral activities / quizzes and tests) with a minimum mark of 5 /10.

 the final written exam with a minimum mark of 5 / 10.

In the event that the student does not pass one of the above, the maximum final mark a student will be able
to obtain is a 4.0 and the student will have to retake the exam and/or make up the work s/he has not done
during the course at the next exam sitting.

Subsequent exam sittings

At the second exam sitting, the student will be examined on the part of the assessed material that s/he has
not passed; i.e., the student will have to do a final written exam (which constitutes 50% of the final mark)
and / or a series of oral or written activities related to work not done during the course to evaluate whether
he has acquired the competences established for the subject (which also constitute 50% of the final mark). If
the student has passed the continuous assessment, that mark will be saved and averaged in with the final
exam mark provided that the student passes the exam. In the event that the student has not passed the
continuous assessment part of the course, it will be the student’s responsibility to get in touch with the
teacher far enough in advance to be able to prepare any oral activity or writing assignment that he may be
expected to prepare for the exam or to hand in on the day of the exam.

At third and subsequent exam sittings that take place in the following academic year, the student will be
tested on all the material and no mark will be saved from the course or previous exam sittings.

SUMMARY OF COURSE ASSIGNMENTS AND SCHEDULED DATES

Option 1

In class activities and course assignments Date Deadline
Quiz – Unit 1 Week 3-4 Week 4
Writing task-Unit 1 Week 8
Quiz - Unit 2 Week 7-8
Writing task-Unit 2 Week 14
OPTIONAL: Quiz - Unit 3 Week 10-11
Presentation– Unit 4 Week 13-14
Writing task – Unit 4

Option 2 Date Deadline
Week 3-4 Week 4
In class activities and course tasks Week 8
Quiz - Unit 2 Week 7-8 Week 14
Writing task-Unit 2
OPTIONAL: Quiz - Unit 3 Week 10-11
Presentation– Unit 4
Writing task – Unit 4
Writing task – Unit 1



Unit 1 – Professional correspondence

1. Types of communication

a. Discuss the following questions in pairs or small groups.
1. Which of these ways of communicating do you use? Do you use other ways?

 face-to-face  letter  Skype
 telephone  report  Other_____________________
 email  What’s App
 notice board  Post-it notes

2. What situations would you use each one in? Give examples.

3. Do you belong to a social networking website (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat)?
How many do you belong to? What do you use each one for?

4. What form of communication do you use the most to communicate with ….?
- your teachers
- your parents
- your classmates
- your friends

b. What methods would you use in the following cases?

1. Informing classmates of a change of dates for
a lecture by an important speaker.

2. Reminding classmates about the last day to
pay for a class trip.

3. Signing up for summer courses in a language
programme abroad.

4. Informing a teacher that you will be absent on
a day when there is an exam.

5. Asking the teacher for a letter of reference.

6. Looking for a roommate to share your
apartment with you.

7. Applying for a summer job abroad.

8. Showing the pictures from your last holiday.

9. Wishing a friend in Valencia Happy Birthday.

1

1. Types of written communication

1

For: Mary Paulson
From: Jaime Garcia
Subject: Work experience placement

1_________________________________________,

Thank you very much for sending me your application and information to
apply for a work placement at Austin Bishop so quickly. I am sending you the
completed form as I know the deadline for applications is next Friday. I shall
also send a hard copy of the form by regular mail, so you should receive it in
a week or so.

I look forward to the possibility of working for your firm.

2____________________________
Jaime Garcia

2

Roger Collins
Dinner plans

3_______________________________
I’m in town til Thursday. I rang you earlier but you were out. I left you a
message, but in case you don’t get it, I’m staying at the Durham Hotel- room
19. The telephone is 7895432. I’ve also got my mobile – the number is
01872 765987. I’ve got meetings all day today and tomorrow, but I’d love
to get together with you for dinner tomorrow or Wednesday night. I leave
Thursday morning for Amsterdam. Give me a call asap or email me if that is
more convenient (I’ve got my laptop with me).
4__________________________________
Diane

2

3

1. Which one is: 1.1
a) an informal e-mail ____
b) a formal e-mail____
c) a letter of enquiry ____

2. What is the reason for writing in each case?

3. Fill in the salutation and complementary closing (gaps 1-6) with

one of the expressions below. Yours sincerely,
Dear Sir or Madam, Yours faithfully,
Hi Roger:
Dear Mr./Ms. ------: Hope we can get together!

4. Find words, expressions and abbreviations in 1-3 which mean:
a) about
b) as soon as possible
c) ask
d) telephoned
e) (carbon copy) / send a copy to
f) last possible date to do something

3

Online viewing

Video 1 (a & b) Layout of a standard letter

ACTIVITY 1. Watch the videos and complete the PDF worksheet available in Moodlerooms
with the missing information. Pay special attention to punctuation.

ACTIVITY 2. Do Word letter formatting activity if instructed by your teacher.

Parts of a letter

1. Label the parts of the blank letter in block format
on the right.
1. Complimentary close
2. Greeting/Salutation
3. Name (and title) of sender below signature
4. Name and address of addressee (inside address)
5. Main paragraph
6. Sender's name and address
7. Date
8. Concluding remarks/closing lines
9. Sender's signature
10. Introductory paragraph

2. Arrange the components below in order to
make a letter of enquiry.

B. 354 Coldharbour Lane
Brixton SW9
United Kingdom

D. Casey Cole H. Yours faithfully,

E. Dear Sir/Madam, G. Orbis Travel I. 1 March 202 _
14 Elizabeth Street,
F. Casey Cole Victoria London, SW1W
9RB

J. Please contact me at the above address or email me at: [email protected] I greatly enjoyed

your Scandinavian Holiday Tour last year and look forward to hearing from you in the near future.

C. I saw your advertisement for package tours in The Guardian of 25 February. I am writing to enquire
about the Mediterranean Holiday Tour in July 201-.

A. Firstly, what are the dates of the tour? Secondly, what are the ticket prices, including the price of
accommodation? I would also like to know what types of cabins are available and whether the cabin has a
view. Furthermore, will you be providing transfers to and from the port? Finally, I would appreciate it if you
could send me a list of activities offered to passengers on board the ship.

The above layout, known as the “block style”, is the simplest and easiest to use. Please note that
different layouts are possible – each company has its own ‘house style’, and various templates
(plantillas) are available in Word or other word processing software. See p. 21 for model layouts.

4

2. Conventions in professional correspondence

1. Dates

Write down today’s date as you would write it in a report or letter in two different ways.

Online viewing

Video 1c – Reading 1d - Saying and Writing Dates
in formal English

2. Beginnings and endings CLOSING CLOSING
(British English) (American English)
Complete the table below.
Yours _______________, Yours truly,
GREETING / SALUTATION * Yours _______________, _____________________,
_____________________,
Unknown recipient Cordially yours,

Dear _______________,

Dear _______________:
or ? Dear _____________:
Dear ______________,

Person whose name you know
(Paul West / Mary Smith)

Dear __________________,

Dear __________________:

Person you know well Regards,
(Paul West / Mary Smith) Best regards,
Dear __________________, Kind/Warm regards,
Dear __________________: Best wishes,
All the best,

*PUNCTUATION-In American English salutations in business correspondence are usually
followed by a colon (:). In British English they are followed by a comma (,) or nothing ( ).

5

If you wish to enclose documents, you can either list all enclosed documents separately or just write
the word Enclosure (abbreviated form: Enc.)below the signature. In an email, it is called an
attachment. To indicate you are sending additional documents you should write:

LETTER EMAIL

 I have enclosed a copy of … /  I have attached a copy…
 Enclosed please find a copy of ….  Attached please find a copy …
 Please find enclosed a copy of ….  Please find attached a copy …

If you are
writing a
work related piece of correspondence, in addition to your signature (if it is a letter) and your
complete name, you should include your job title, if you occupy a position of responsibility in a
company or organization.

Examples: Yours faithfully,
Yours sincerely, Mary Smith

Paul West Mary Smith
Project coordinator
Paul West
Human Resources Manager

How do you sign an email?

You can sign it with an email signature, which is a small bit of information that one writes and
programs to always appear at the end of an email message. This information is typically your name
and contact details; however, you can choose to put whatever you like and it will be added at the end
of all messages you compose. Email signatures can be plain text or something fancier with images and
colors. Any email program allows you to create these -- for example, Windows Mail, which is a free
email program from Microsoft, lets you quickly create and attach email signatures to outgoing
messages. Here is a list of things you can include in your email signature:
 Your name
 Your job title
 Your contact details, such as your full mailing address, phone numbers, email addresses
 Web site address - This is something you should include - helps to spread the word
 The logo of your company -as mentioned above, you can put images in email signatures

Example:

Paul West
Director, Student Activities & Special Events
The Johnson School at Cornell University
106 Sage Hall
Ithaca, NY 14853-6201

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 607 255-5555
Cell: 607 255-5555

6

1. How would you begin and end a formal letter or email to the following
people?

Ex. Mark Allen Dear Mr. Allen …. Yours sincerely
a) The Manager, Human Resources ..................................................................................................
b) Helen Thompson ...........................................................................................................................
c) Eric Peterson .................................................................................................................................
d) Chairman, Department of Modern Languages..............................................................................
e) Dr. Yoshiko Nakimura PhD (Japanese language professor).........................................................
f) Bob Harris (class representative) ..................................................................................................

2. Email abbreviations 1.2a

a. Below are some common abbreviations you will find in e-mails. Do you
know what they stand for?

CC _______________________________
BCC _____________________________
RE _______________________________
ASAP ____________________________
FYI ______________________________
@ ________________________________
FW ______________________________
PS _______________________________

b. Match each symbol from an email address with its name.

1. x @ y a. underscore 1.2b
2. x ● y b. hyphen or dash

3. x - y c. in upper case (letters) or capital letters

4. x___y d. dot

5. x / y e. at

6. x \ y f. hashtag; pound sign; number

7. x#y g. backslash

8. : h. in lower case (letters)

9. MARY i. forward slash

10. mary j. colon

Go to Communication Files (1A p24) & (1B p26)

3. Specific expressions related to correspondence 1.2c

a. Read the following sentences. Indicate if these expressions would be used in an Both
email, a letter or both. When you finish, explain what the words in bold mean.

Email Letter

1. I have attached a copy of the form.
2. Please find enclosed a copy of the proposal.
3. Your request was forwarded to me by a colleague.
4. I am afraid that I am unable to open the document.
5. I am sorry for the delay in replying.
6. I am sending Paul a copy of this message.
7. I will also send you a hard copy.
8. Please forward this message to anyone who may be interested.
9. I look forward to your reply.

7

b. What is the nominal form of the following words? 1.3

apologise apology/apologies enclose  ______________________
enquire ______________________
appoint  _________________________ inform ______________________
apply ______________________ notify ______________________
arrange  _________________________ reply ______________________
attach  ______________________ report ______________________
complain______________________ request ______________________
confirm______________________ require ______________________
respond ______________________

4. Write original sentences using ten of the verbs or nouns above as they
would be used in a formal /professional letter or email.

Register in correspondence

Dear Mr Scott,

Thank you very much for your letter of 23 March introducing your marketing consultancy services.
Currently, we do not have any demand for this type of service. However, this situation could change
in the future and therefore, I will certainly keep your details on file. In the meantime, I would be
grateful if you could send us an up-to-date list of your fees.

Once again, thank you for offering us your services.

Yours sincerely,
Monica Stouffer

Dear Jimmy,

Thanks for the information about what your company does. Right now, we’re not really looking for
any help with marketing consultancy, but something might come up in the future, so I’ll certainly keep
your information on file. For now, please send us an up-to-date list of your fees.

Thanks again for the information.

Best regards,
Monica

1. Define “register”.

2. Identify which of the emails above is more formal and which one is less formal. Then make
a list of the differences between the formal and informal emails below with your partner.

FORMAL REGISTER INFORMAL REGISTER

3. What factors will determine the level of formality you will use in the letter or email you are
writing?

8

Practice 1.4
1. Match the informal phrases on the left with the formal expressions in the box.

Informal Neutral/Formal

1 What do you need? c a) With reference to / Regarding
2 Thanks for the email of 12 Feb. b) I can assure you that...
3 Sorry, I can't make it. c) Please let us know your requirements.
4 I'm sorry to tell you that …. d) We would like to remind you that...
5 I promise you that…. e) I look forward to seeing you next week.
6 Please could you...? (2) f) Thank you for your email received 12 February.
7 Don't forget … g) I am afraid I will not be able to attend.
8 Shall I ...? h) Would you like me to ...?
9 But. .. / Also... / So ... i) I would be grateful if you could...
10 I'm sorry for… j) Please accept our apologies for.. .
11 Re: k) We regret to inform you that...
12 See you next week. l) However... / In addition... / Therefore...
m) I would greatly appreciate it if you could…

2. For sentences 1-4 write the contracted forms in full and for 5-8 write the contracted form.

1 I’ll let you know tomorrow. ...............................................................................................
2 I’d like an answer asap. .....................................................................................................
3 I won’t know till Friday. ....................................................................................................
4 I’m afraid I can’t help you. ................................................................................................

5 It has been ages since I have seen him. .............................................................................

6 I would have told you if I had known.................................................................................

7 I would not be surprised if they are late. ............................................................................

8 You must not do anything until I say so.............................................................................

3. Avoid beginning sentences with the words in the box below, which are conjunctions or too
informal or simply incorrect. What words below the box should be used instead?

To introduce a new To contrast To introduce result To provide additional
topic information about the
So same topic
Speaking about/ But/Anyway
Referring / About And/Also

Consequently However Moreover Regarding With respect to

Furthermore In addition With regard to Nevertheless Therefore As for

9

4. Replace the expressions underlined with a more formal expression. The first has 1.5a
already been done for you.

Standard Register More Formal Register

1. We are writing to ask if you could …. a) acceptable
b) contact

2. I am really interested in…. c) enquire 1

3. We would be glad to give you more d) very
details. e) further, additional
4. I look forward to your answer. f) proposal
5. We are sure that it will meet your needs. g) provide (sb) with (=proporcionar)
h) inform you / advise you

6. If you need a copy, do not hesitate to get in i) pleased

touch with us. j) reply
7. I am writing to ask for information…. k) request
8. We wish to let you know … l) should you +verb (+ direct object)
9. We hope our idea is OK … m) trust, are confident
n) requirements

o) require

REQUEST – REQUIRE – ENQUIRE are words that are frequently confused.
Look at p. 29 for further practice using these words.

5a. Verb with and without indirect objects - Beginnings

Below you will find introductory expressions frequently used in professional communication. You
should know not only what they mean but also whether or not you need to put an indirect object or
complement (“you, me, us, etc.”) after the verb.

a. IN PAIRS, form 8 sentences by reading the first part of the sentence to your partner. Decide if you
need to add YOU and/or AN INDIRECT OBJECT after the verb.
b. Your partner will dictate the appropriate ending so that you can complete the sentence. Use each
ending only once.(see exercise 5a on p. 12)
c. When you get half way, switch pages with your partner.

EXAMPLE: Could you tell me if the prices published on your webpage are applicable for

next fall?

1. I am writing to complain ................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................

2. I am writing to request ...................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................

3. We are pleased to inform ..............................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................

4. We regret to inform ........................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................

5. I would like to remind ....................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................

10

6. I would like to apologise ................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................

7. I would be happy to explain ............................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................................

5b. Classify the verbs below under the correct column. 1.5b

ADVISE COMPLAIN EXPLAIN REPLY
ANSWER CONTACT INFORM REQUEST
APOLOGISE ENCLOSE NOTIFY REQUIRE
ASSURE ENQUIRE PROVIDE SEND
CONFIRM ENSURE REMIND TELL
ATTACH

Verbs without an Indirect Verbs + Personal Indirect BOTH
Object Object (= sb)

attach advise

6. Complete the blanks below with the correct form of one of the formal verbs you 1.5c
have used in the exercises above (Ex. 1, 4 & 5a/b). In some sentences, you may
need to add a complement (me / you / us) or a preposition.

1. Do not hesitate to call us if you __________________ any further information.

2. If you are interested in living on campus, you should _________________ a list of student
residences from the housing office.

3. The international coordinator can ______________________ information on the subjects you can
take once the selection process has finished.

4. It is a pleasure for us to ____________________ that you have been admitted to Fordham’s
Summer Legal Institute .

5. I am writing to _________________about the possibility of staying in the dormitory for three
days after the semester finishes.

6. I am afraid that Georgetown _________________ a 640 on the TOEFL exam and you only have
a 580.

7. I regret to _________________ that we are unable to ____________________ with the
information you ____________________ . The list of courses offered in fall semester will not be
available until June.

8. I _________________________ it if you could _______________________ information about
accommodation near the campus.

9. Feel free to _____________________ should you have any questions about enrolment (U.K.) /
enrollment (U.S.).

10.We urgently need to know the number of students that are participating so please
____________________ the information as soon as possible.

11

7. Distinguishing formal and informal writing 1.6a

Complete 1-7 below by choosing from the formal and informal phrases on the
right e-mails They are taken from two emails: one in which the correspondents
know each other slightly and another from an email between two colleagues who
know each other quite well.

1 Starting/Salutation a) I would be grateful if you could send me a
Formal ........................................................................... copy of your latest findings by next week.
Informal.........................................................................
b) Hi Bob
2 Friendly /Social opening c) If you need me to pick you up at the
Formal ...........................................................................
Informal......................................................................... airport, let me know.
d) Send me any points you want me to
3 Reasons for writing
Formal ........................................................................... include asap.
Informal......................................................................... e) How’s everything going?
f) About the meeting, I hope to send out the
4 Requesting
Formal ........................................................................... agenda tomorrow.
Informal......................................................................... g) Cheers.
h) I am writing regarding the research project.
5 Offering help i) Dear Ms. Fernandez,
Formal ........................................................................... j) Please do not hesitate to call me if you
Informal.........................................................................
have any questions about the survey.
k) I look forward to hearing from you in the

near future.
l) Best regards,
m) I hope all is well in Madrid.
n) Hope to hear from you soon.

6 Closing sentence
Formal ................................................................................................................................................

Informal Hope to hear from you soon ...............................................................................

7 Complementary closing
Formal ................................................................................................................................................

Informal .........................................................................................................................................

5a. Verb with and without indirect objects- Sentence endings (see p. 10)

Below you will find some typical sentence endings for letters.
a. Form 8 complete the following sentences with your partner by dictating the most appropriate ending
to your partner. Together decide if you need to add YOU and/or AN INDIRECT OBJECT after the verb.
Use each ending only once.
b. When you get half way, switch pages with your partner.

a) for cancelling our appointment at the last minute.
b) that the deadline for registration is next week.
c) about the poor technical assistance we received at the conference centre.
d) that you have been accepted on our summer course.
e) information about your English courses.
f) how our application process works.
g) if the prices published on your webpage are applicable for next fall.
h) that you do not meet all the requirements for the post.

12

Useful expressions for formal
business correspondence

Opening

Why do we need an opening line in a formal business letter or
email?
- to make reference to previous correspondence
- to say how you found the recipient's name/address
- to say why you are writing to the recipient.

1. Fill in the boxes with the missing verbs in the correct verb tense. Complete the

____________ with the correct preposition. 1.6b

1. Useful Opening Lines:

a) An initial contact - Give reference/explain the reason why you are writing.

like (2) give request see send write (3)

 I am w r i t i n g to enquire _________ the course that ...

 After h a v i n g s e e n your advertisement in [name of publication] , I w o u l d l i k e
to apply...
 I r e c e i v e d your name and address _________ one of my professors, who informed me that
you might be able to assist me with my doctoral dissertation.
 I w o u l d l i k e to arrange an appointment with you ...

 I am w r i t i n g to (request / complain / invite / book …)
 I am interested _________ (studying / applying for / working …)

b) Thanking the reader
Thank you (very much) …_________ your email . / _______ s e n d i n g me the information I
requested .

c) Beginning a letter of reply/a follow-up letter. Supply the missing preposition.
 We / I recently wrote to you _________...
 _________ reference _________ your letter _________ 8 June, I ...
 _________ reply _________ your letter _________ 8 June, I ...
 Thank you _________ your letter _________ 8 May.
 Further _________* our meeting regarding ...

*NOTE: FURTHER TO is only used at the beginning of a letter. It should not be confused with FURTHERMORE, which
is a linking word used to add information or AS TO/FOR, which is used to introduce a new subject.

2. Orienting the reader (introducing different types of information)

Complete the introductory phrases below logically. Discuss with your partner in what situations you
would use these expressions.
 You will be pleased to hear ..........................................................................................................

 I regret to inform you ...................................................................................................................

 I am pleased to inform you that ....................................................................................................

13

3. Other functional phrases for letters/emails: 1.6c

Paragraph 2
a) What ‘function’ do the following phrases indicate? ____________________

- Number them from least formal to most formal.
______ I would like to have / know / receive ….
______ I would be grateful if you could...
______ Can you …?
______ I would (greatly) appreciate it if you could …
______ Could you please send / attach ...?

b) What ‘function’ do the following phrases indicate? ______________________

- Number them from least formal to most formal.
______ I would like to apologise for …
______ Please accept our sincere apologies for any inconvenience we may have caused.
______ I’m sorry about ….
______ We would like to offer our apologies for …

NOTE: For non-native speakers, the neutral style is the best choice, as it will sound appropriate in
nearly every context.

c) And what is the function of these ….? ______________________

 If you require …………………………, I would be pleased to …
 If you would like ………………………………………,

4. Closing 1.6d
Why do we need a closing line in a formal business letter or email?
- to make a reference to a future event
- to repeat an apology
- to offer help
- to indicate what you expect the reader to do

Useful Closing Lines. Complete the phrases below with the missing word.

 If you r e q u i r e any f u r t h e r information, feel f r e e to contact me.
 Should you need any f u r t h e r information, please do not h e s i t a t e to

c o n t a c t me.

 Should you have any f u r t h e r questions, I will be happy to be of

assistance .
 Once again, I a p o l o g i s e for the error / any inconvenience.
 I look forward to your r e p l y .
 I look forward to h e a r i n g from you.
 I look forward to s e e i n g you at the conference next week.

 I hope to h e a r from you in the n e a r future.

See also POLITE QUESTIONS (p. 22-23)

Worksheet 1.1 p. 141

14

Practice

Perico Garcia is doing a summer internship at Johnson
& Associates. He was asked to write the email below
on behalf of his boss, Wendy, to an important client,
Michael Harris. However, it is too informal; his boss,
Wendy Jaspers, the Sales Manager at Johnson &
Associates, has just sent Perico an email asking him to
rewrite it in a more formal polite style.

Rewrite the email below in a more formal style. Include all the expressions below in your final
version. Add any necessary punctuation.

I would be grateful if contact further to do not hesitate acceptable

however attached please find Yours requested require remind

Hi Mike

After our phone chat, with this email here’s the draft contract that you asked us for.

Read it carefully and if the terms are OK, sign it and post it back to me asap.

Remember, next Tuesday is the last day!!! But maybe we can extend it to the end of

the week. Make sure and call me if you need to know anything else.

Bye for now.

Wendy

15

E-mails - communication at work

E-mails have become the most common way of communicating, especially at work between
colleagues. As a result we receive dozens of emails a day, which is why it is important to be brief and
to the point when writing them. Emails normally include four main parts: the greeting, the reason for
writing, the action point and the closing.

a) Complete the email below with the phrases on the left.

a) Regards Paco Ferrer
Sales meeting
b) Could you send me
the agenda1 as soon as
possible?

c) Dear Paco,

d) I am writing to confirm
that I will be attending the
sales meeting next week.

Greeting _____
Reason for writing _____
Action point _____
Closing _____

b) Look at the reasons for writing and match them with an action point

Reason for writing Action point

1. I need to contact Joan Larkin about a a) I’d like to book the tickets today and need to
problem with accommodation but I can’t find discuss the flight arrangements with you first.
her number or email address. Give me a call.

2. I would like to talk about the courses that I b) Could you send them to me asap?
should take, but I don’t know your office hours.

Thanks.

3. As you requested, attached is an Excel file c) Please let me know if you need any more
with the final balance sheet for this year and the information.
cash flow forecast for next year.
Best regards,

4. I spoke to Juan yesterday on the phone about d) Could you let me know when would be a

our trip to Geneva. good time for me to come and talk to you?

Sincerely,

 Worksheet 1.2 p.143

1 agenda – “orden del día” ; list of the subjects to be discussed at a meeting
16

False friends in correspondence

Some typical Spanish-speaker mistakes

1. Here is an invented example of an email from a Spanish-speaker. There are a number of
‘spanglish’ errors of grammar,spelling style and vocabulary as well as many false friends. Can
you identify and correct them?

Esteemed Companion:

I have just received an information that you are going to impart a short formation course of
two weeks called ‘Written Professional Communication’. The finality of the course is to help
participants communicate more effectively when writing emails, letters and informs and to
follow actual conventions of professional writing. I am interested to write in english, but I have
difficulty to express myself and to use especialized vocabulary. When I write, I am
continuously doubting which words to use. Also I think it would be useful to have some
example letters.
I hope it is not too late to appoint me. The course starts the June 30th, and I will intend to
assist on that day, although I have several compromises, and a couple of reunions. If I can’t
assist, I will ask one of my companions for a resume of the contents for that day. My email
direction is [email protected]. I wait for your notices.
Cordial salutes!

Paqui Ortega

* Typical ‘false friends’ in English and Spanish include: 1.8

 actual (= auténtico, real); actually (= realmente, en realidad)
 assist (= ayudar)
 appoint (= nombrar, designar)
 compromise (=acuerdo mutuo, acuerdo aceptable para todas las partes)
 finality (= irrevocabilidad)
 intend (= tener la intención de)
 resume/resumé/résumé (= curriculum vitae)
 reunion (= reencuentro [e.g. de familia, ex-alumnos)
 inform (=informar)

2. Write the correct word in English for the following words in Spanish.

Spanish English
actual
asistir
apuntarse (a un curso)
compromiso
dirección
finalidad
informe
intentar
resumen
reunión

There is a useful list in: Darragh, Glenn (2003) e-mail English: Gánese el respeto de sus lectores. Editorial Stanley

17

Online viewing

Video 2 - Doing an internship

Adam Elkins did an internship at
…………………………….. in the winter of
……………………… He is currently
……………………………………………..

Answer the questions below about his experience.

1. How did he find out about the internship?
...............................................................................

..........................................................................................................................................

..........................................................................................................................................

2. His job responsibilities included (tick all those that he mentions):

running errands attending meetings scanning documents
writing emails preparing tax returns auditing company’s financial results

making coffee making photocopies assisting the head of his department

3. What he most liked about his internship was:

the people he worked with getting real experience earning his first salary

4. He advises future interns to .............................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................

5. Amy Van Kirk is in charge …………………………….………
6. She says the job gives students the opportunity to ..........................

..........................................................................................................
7. An internship training period typically lasts ....................................

..........................................................................................................
8. Price Waterhouse Coopers generally hires interns who are

..........................................................................................................................................
9. The interns generally work in one of the three following client service lines: ................

..........................................................................................................................................
10. PWC trains about …………………….. interns a year. About ………………….% of

their interns go onto find full-time jobs.
11. In order to apply for the job, candidates have to ............................................................

..........................................................................................................................................

18

Effective e-mails 1.9

Netiquette. How to write an effective e-mail

a) Don’t forget a subject line. Omitting it may mean
that the person receiving it may just trash it. Use a
subject line that tells the other person what the e-
mail is about. Don't just write “Information” or
“Tuesday” or “Hello”.

b) Never send an attachment without a subject line
or a short text message in the email. Explain what
you are attaching. Otherwise the person receiving
the email may think it is a virus and simply throw
it away without reading it.

c) Use written greetings (Dear Mr Smith) and
endings (Yours sincerely) just as you would in a
letter.

d) If you are writing to someone you don't know, start by saying who you are and why you are
writing. Clearly state the purpose of the email.

e) In business e-mails, always use a formal and polite tone. Don't be too informal or familiar.

f) Use short clear sentences. Stick to the point and avoid “social chat”.

g) Use paragraphs for different topics. Leave a space between paragraphs.

h) In business e-mails, don't use emoticons, e.g. , or acronyms, e.g. BTW (by the way) or LOL
(laugh out loud).

i) Don't write in CAPITAL LETTERS - THIS IS LIKE SHOUTING, and it also makes the text very
hard to read.

j) Don't repeat yourself - try not to use the same word more than once in a paragraph to avoid
sounding redundant.

k) Check your grammar, spelling and punctuation - are they correct? If you are worried about
your spelling, use a spell check.

l) When writing in a professional context, use email addresses that sound professional, not
addresses like the following: [email protected] ; [email protected] :
[email protected] ; [email protected]

m) Include your job title only if you have one (Sales Manager, Head of Studies). Please note that
“student” is not a job title.

19

Online viewing

Video 3 Writing a cover letter

Watch videos 3a, 3b and 3c and answer the questions below.

1. What is a cover letter? What is a résumé?

2. What information should you include in the first paragraph of a cover
letter? Why?

3. What is a “pitch”?

4. How many paragraphs should your cover letter consist of? What kind of
information should you include in each paragraph?

5. What questions should you ask yourself as you write your cover letter?

6. What should you indicate at the end of your letter after your name?

Writing.

At the end of this unit, your teacher will assign a letter writing task.

 Worksheets 1.3 p.145 & 1.4 p.147

20

Language Reference

1. a. Parts of a letter

On this page you have two letter writing formats you can use. As you can see, the letter on the left is
the easiest of the two.

b. Business letter layout

The following pictures show what a one-page professional business letter should look like.

There are three accepted styles. The horizontal lines represent lines of type. Click your

mouse pointer on any part of the picture for a description and example of that part.

------- The dotted shows which elements must be lined up.

Modified Block Style Block Style

21

2. Indirect polite questions

Politeness is always important in letter writing. It is important not to sound too abrupt. Another way
of doing this is by using introductory expressions and indirect question forms (if/whether or
Question word + normal sentence word order).

Examples INDIRECT
DIRECT (short review on p.137)
When will the room be ready? Could you let us know when the room will be ready?
We would like to know when the books were ordered.
When were the books ordered?

Use WHETHER or IF to introduce Yes/No questions.

DIRECT INDIRECT

Did the flight arrive on time? Could you please tell me whether/if the

flight arrived on time?

Useful introductory phrases  Could you let us know….?

 I/ We would like to know...  We would (greatly) appreciate it if.....
 I am/would be interested in + ing…  I would be grateful if …
 I am writing to enquire +QW.... …you would/could tell me/let me know/…
 Could you please tell us....?

1a. Transform the following sentences to indirect questions. 1.10
a. When does your summer English course start?

b. What discount do you offer students?

c. How long will the course last?

d. When do I have to leave the apartment?

e. When did DHL pick up the package?

f. Where can I get an application form?
g. What is the deadline for applying?

h. Do you arrange accommodation for students?

h. Is the transportation included in the price?

22

1b. A student who is taking a summer course wants to ask the following questions.
Transform the following sentences to indirect questions.

1. When can I apply for Summer School?
_________________________________________________________________
2. What are the dates for the summer school sessions?
_________________________________________________________________
3. If I have taken the TOEFL iBT, do I still need to take the TOEFL here?
_________________________________________________________________
4. Would you accept an Institutional TOEFL score?
_________________________________________________________________
5. Are there any prerequisites for the courses?
_________________________________________________________________
6. Do I need a visa to study at the Summer School?
_________________________________________________________________
7. How will I be informed if I have been accepted?
_________________________________________________________________
8. How many ECTS points is a Summer School course worth?
_________________________________________________________________
9. How many people will there be in the lectures and classes?
_________________________________________________________________
10.Will I have full access to the library and its facilities?
_________________________________________________________________
11.Are there computer workstations available for Summer School students?
_________________________________________________________________
12.Who should I contact about accommodation issues?
_________________________________________________________________
13.Are single rooms available?
_________________________________________________________________
14.Can I pay by bank transfer?
_________________________________________________________________

Go to Communication Files (2A p.25) & (2B p. 27)

23

Communication Files Student A

File 1A – E-mail addresses
1. LISTENING. EMAIL DICTATION. Write down the addresses you hear on the video/audio
your teacher plays for you. (PPT1.2)

a) .......................................................................................................................................................
b) .......................................................................................................................................................
c) .......................................................................................................................................................
d) .......................................................................................................................................................
e) .......................................................................................................................................................
f) .......................................................................................................................................................
g) .......................................................................................................................................................
h) .......................................................................................................................................................

2. Dictate the email addresses and URLs below to your partner who must write them down.
 [email protected]
 [email protected]
 [email protected]
 [email protected]
 www.westonhotel.com\bookings
 Dictate your own email address to your partner

3. Write down the addresses that your partner dictates.

a) ..........................................................................................................................................................

b) ..........................................................................................................................................................

c) ..........................................................................................................................................................

d) ..........................................................................................................................................................

e) ..........................................................................................................................................................
f) Your partner’s email address is:.......................................................................................................

4. Compare your answers.

24

File 2A – Asking and answering questions about your university

Exchange student ICADE student

Imagine you are an EXCHANGE STUDENT Try to answer the questions. If you don’t know

speaking to an ICADE student. Change these the answer, tell them who could answer their

to indirect questions beginning with: question or say.

Do you know……………..? I’m sorry but………
Could/Can you tell me……….? I’m afraid that ….
I’d like to know………………..
Would you mind telling me………………? I really don’t know. I’ll find out and let you
know.

I’m not sure, but you could probably ask in …..

Remember the order.

Do you know… IF/WHETHER SUBJECT VERB (in THE REST OF THE
Could/Can you tell me… (yes/no questions) the correct SENTENCE
I’d like to know… verb tense)
Wh…
How…

1) You are an Exchange student and you are talking to an ICADE student. You
should begin asking the questions below 1-10 using an expression from the box
above + the INDIRECT FORM.

QUESTIONS – STUDENT A. Foreign exchange student

1. Where is the cafeteria?
2. How much is the yearly tuition at this university?
3. Is the library open on weekends?
4. How many students are there in an average class?
5. What time do classes begin in the morning?
6. When are final exams this year?
7. Are there student residences on campus?
8. How can I register with the Career Planning and Placement Center?
9. How much does a subway ticket cost?
10. Where can I open a bank account?

2) Now you are an ICADE student – answer your partner’s questions as well as you
can.

25

Communication Files Student B

File 1B – E-mail addresses

1. LISTENING. EMAIL DICTATION. Write down the addresses you hear on the video/audio
your teacher plays for you. (PPT1.2)

a) .....................................................................................................................................................
b) .....................................................................................................................................................
c) .....................................................................................................................................................
d) .....................................................................................................................................................
e) .....................................................................................................................................................
f) .....................................................................................................................................................
g) .....................................................................................................................................................
h) .....................................................................................................................................................

2. Write down the addresses that your partner dictates.

a) .....................................................................................................................................................
b) .....................................................................................................................................................
c) .....................................................................................................................................................
d) .....................................................................................................................................................
e) .....................................................................................................................................................
f) Your partner’s email address is: ..................................................................................................

3. Dictate the email addresses and URLs below to your partner who must write them down.

 [email protected]
 law@lawrence_walsh.com
 [email protected]
 [email protected]
 www.jpmorgan.com\financial_services
 Dictate your own email address to your partner.

4. Compare your answers.

26

File 2B – Asking and answering questions about your university

Exchange student ICADE student

Imagine you are an EXCHANGE STUDENT Try to answer the questions. If you don’t know
speaking to an ICADE student. Change the the answer, tell them who could answer their
questions below to indirect questions question or say.
beginning with
I’m sorry but………
Do you know……………..? I’m afraid that ….
Could/Can you tell me……….? I really don’t know. I’ll find out and let you
I’d like to know……………….. know.
Would you mind telling me………………? I’m not sure, but you could probably ask in …..

Remember the order.

IF/WHETHER*

Do you know… (yes/no VERB (in the
Could/Can you tell me… correct verb
I’d like to know… questions) SUBJECT tense) THE REST OF THE
SENTENCE.
Wh…
How…

*You must use WHETHER after prepositions

1) You are an ICADE student – your partner is an exchange student. Answer your
partner’s questions as well as you can.

2) Exchange roles for questions 11-20. Formulate your questions using an
expression from the box above + the question in INDIRECT FORM.

QUESTIONS – STUDENT B. Foreign exchange student

11. Does the university provide accommodation for foreign students?
12. Where is the housing office?
13. What sports can I play at this university? How can I join an athletic team?
14. How much does the English book cost?
15. Where can I buy my books?
16. Are there any courses offered in Spanish as a foreign language?
17. Do you have to take the TOEFL to study abroad?
18. Does this university administer any other official English exams?
19. Can I take any Cambridge exams such as the Proficiency at this university?
20. How many credits do students take per semester in your degree programme?
21. How can I get to the Canto Blanco Campus from here?

27

Unit 1 Notes

28

Unit 1 -Check your progress

1. Frequently Confused Words 1.11

request = ask for something /ask that somebody do something/be asked to do sth; a

request (noun)
Example: I am writing to request information about your range of home furnishings./ She
requested that everyone remain* silent./We were requested to meet in the hotel lobby at 8 a.m

require = 1. to need sth, have need of; a requirement (noun)
Example: Please call this number if you require any further assistance.
Incorrect: We require to ensure that it will arrive on time.  that you ensure (subjunctive
construction)

2. to be or make obligatory
Example: Our company requires payment on delivery.
enquire / inquire= ask about / ask whether, when, wh…; an enquiry/inquiry (noun)
Example: Thank you for your letter enquiring about our line of kitchen equipment.

*Notice use of subjunctive form of the verb.

1. Complete the blanks below with the correct form of one of the above verbs.

a) I'm ringing to ___e_n__q_u_i_r_e__ whether you have direct flights to Dallas.
b) Do not hesitate to call us if you ___________ any further information.
c) I think it will be quicker to ____________ the information via e-mail.
d) The best way to find a legal advisor is to ___________ a list from the national office.
e) You are _____________________ by law to stop your car after an accident.
f) Skiing at 80 miles per hour __________ total concentration.
g) Keith Lange has written us to ___________ about the possibility of becoming our sole distributor
in Canada.
h) Our suppliers have ___________a meeting with us at our earliest convenience.
i) We are writing to ___________ why the goods have not been delivered yet.
j) The exporters will not negotiate the terms of payment. They always ______________ payment
by letter of credit at 30 days.
k) She __________________ permission to film at the White House but it was refused.

2. Sentence rewrites

a. Rewrite the sentences below using the words provided.
1. Further to our meeting of 16 May,...

With reference....................................................................…….............………...........
2. We are happy* to tell* you…

We are pleased .........................................................................................................
We have the pleasure of ...........................................................................……..........

29

3. Please confirm asap.
We would be grateful if.........................................................................................

4. Please send the information as soon as possible.
We would appreciate ...............................................................................................
We would be grateful if ...................................................…....................................

5. We would appreciate a prompt reply.
We look forward .....................................................................................….................

b. Translate the following phrases into appropriate English. DO NOT TRANSLATE
LITERALLY (WORD FOR WORD).
a) nos dirigimos a Uds. para confirmar
b) tenemos el placer de anunciarle
c) el plazo es hasta el 10 de abril
d) comuníquenos la fecha de su llegada
e) nos es grato/nos complace invitarle
f) lamentamos el retraso
g) el programa se enviará mañana
h) le agradecemos su interés
i) es imprescindible que nos conteste antes del viernes
j) quedamos a la espera de sus noticias

30

3. Error Correction 1.12a

3. a. Correct the mistakes in each of the sentences below. When there is more
than one mistake, the number of errors is indicated at the end of the sentence.

a) I write with regard to your recent email. am writing

b) I will be grateful if you send me a copy of your latest catalogue. (2) ..........................................

c) Please find attach my report. (1) ...................................................................................................

d) I look forward to receive your reply as soon as possible. (1)........................................................

e) If you require any further informations, please do not doubt to contact me. (2) .........................

.......................................................................................................................................................
f) Referring to your letter of 23 march, I would like to … (2) .......................................................

.......................................................................................................................................................

g) I would be pleased if you could inform me regarding to accommodation. (2) ............................

h) I would be grateful whether you could send me the form immediately (1). .................................

b. Each phrase below has a missing word. Add the missing word. (HINT: In most cases, it is a
preposition.)

i) With reference your email of 6 June …. 1.12b

j) Thank you sending me the catalogue I requested.

k) I apologise the delay.
l) I would appreciate if you could …

m) If you like any more details, please let me know.

n) I hope to hear you soon.

o) Thank you for the invitation visit your campus.

p) Further your enquiry, please find attached the information you requested.

q) I look forward to receiving your reply in the future.

r) Could you provide me further information regarding your summer internships?

c. Order the words in the following to form a formal letter writing expression. Then 1.12c
try to complete the sentence logically with information you might include in a

formal letter.

1. would me …? like to you ..................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................

31

2. your please us let requirements know ................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................

3. we would you like that to remind ................................................................................... ...

............................................................................................................................................

4. to next I you week forward look seeing..............................................................................

............................................................................................................................................

5. I am able be to not afraid attend will .................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................

6. I if you grateful would be could ........................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................

7. please for accept apologies our .........................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................

8. that inform regret to we you ..............................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................

4. Writing E-Mails. 1.13a

a. Request for information. Ana García has been chosen to study next year at
King’s College in London. Complete her e-mail and the reply by filling in the blank spaces with

a verb from the box below. You should use the verb which would be most suitable for this

context. You may need to use some verbs more than once.

APPLY CONTACT FIND LIVE REQUIRE
ASK ENCLOSE INCLUDE REGRET SUPPLY
ATTACH ENROLL INFORM PICK STUDY
CHOOSE ENQUIRE HEAR PROVIDE WRITE

Accommodation office

Request for information

Dear Sir or Madam,
I am a student at Universidad Pontificia Comillas who (1) ____ recently ________________to
participate in an exchange with your university and I (2)_________________ to
(3)_______________about student housing.

I (4) ____________________at King’s College next fall and I would like (5)
_________________on campus. I would be grateful if you (6) _________________me with
information about the student halls available for exchange students, (7) _________________
the fees, facilities offered and location on campus. I would also like to know the procedure
and deadline for (8) _________________for accommodation in a student residence.

Thank you in advance for your assistance. I look forward to (9) _________________from you.

Yours faithfully,
Ana Garcia

32

b. Reply to enquiry. Use the verbs in the box on the previous page to complete 1.13b
the reply below.

Ana Garcia

RE: Request for information

Dear Ms Garcia
In reply to your e-mail, I (10) _______________ to (11) _______________ you that students
who (12) ___________ only________________ in our university for a semester are not eligible
(13) ______________________ for on-campus student housing.

However, you should have no problem (14) _______________ accommodation near the
university. I (15) _______________ a list of student accommodation offered by landlords and
letting agents, (16) _______________ student flats, studios and bed-sits.

If you need further assistance, do not hesitate (17) _______________ me again.

Yours sincerely

Alice Watkins
Student Accommodation Officer

33

c. Convert the following email into a formal one by changing the underlined words. Use the
words in the box to help you. In most cases, you will also need to add other words as well.

apologise grateful prefer send
contact meantime send soon
currently my apologies sincerely thank
do will

Dear Ms. Haley,

(1) Thanks for your email. (2) Sorry for the delay in sending you the T-shirt that you
ordered. (3) Right now, we (4) don’t have the medium size you requested in stock but we hope to

receive more T-shirts on Friday. (5) The moment they arrive, (6) I’ll get one out to you by first
class post, or, if (7) it’s better for you, I can send you a different size of the same design
immediately. If this is the case, (9) please (10) get in touch with me to let me know. (Ex.) For now
I will try to get the medium size to you as soon as possible. (11) Sorry once again for the delay.
(12) Best wishes,
Jean Evans

Ex. in the meantime......................................................................................................................

1. .........................................................................................................................................
2. .........................................................................................................................................
3. .........................................................................................................................................
4. .........................................................................................................................................
5. .........................................................................................................................................
6. .........................................................................................................................................
7. .........................................................................................................................................
8. .........................................................................................................................................
9. .........................................................................................................................................
10. .........................................................................................................................................
11. .........................................................................................................................................
12. .........................................................................................................................................

5. Letter of application for an internship. (Online only) 1.14

6. Further practice with Cover Letters 1.15

34

Unit 2 – Changing trends

Trends and graphsh

Objectives:
The student will be able to:

Describe and write about trends using information from graphs while
providing reasons for the changes.

____________________________________________
Vocabulary:

Expressions to describe changes over time.

Language use:

Linking words of CAUSE & RESULT

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A taste of the future

Par. 1 The French are replacing their morning Par. 5 A key demographic factor has been the
croissant with breakfast cereal, the English are change in average household size. Sweden has
switching from tea to mineral water and the lowest figures at 2.1 while Ireland has the
Spaniards are eating pizzas instead of fried squid highest at 3.1 per household. This difference will
sandwiches at an alarming rate. In short, these are get smaller, because surprisingly, the birth rates
just a few examples of the changes in consumer in Catholic countries such as Ireland, Spain or
habits in Europe. Italy are decreasing.

Par. 2 A study was conducted across 23 Par. 6 Another factor is the rise in the number of
countries monitoring the buying patterns of one-person households, including single-parent
European consumers. It found that social and households. Forty per cent of Swedish homes are
demographic factors as well as the marketing now one-person households. The figure for
strategies of multinational food and drink Germany is 35%. Even in Spain, where young
companies are contributing towards making the people tend to leave their homes later, the number
lifestyles of different European nations more has risen to 17.5% (2007), up from 12% a decade
alike. earlier. As a result, there has been a growth in the
demand for convenience foods. Hamburger sales,
Par. 3 The result of falling birth rates and rising for example, rose by 6% last year in spite of the
divorce rates has been smaller households, which crisis, or perhaps, because of it.
rely more on microwaves and convenience foods.
Even the French, who are so proud of their Par. 7Aggressive marketing by multina-tionals is
cuisine, are turning to the microwave. The latest also helping to make lifestyles more similar.
figures show that 38% of French households have When a manufacturer already has a substantial
a microwave, compared to 40% in Germany and market share of its domestic market, it has to look
57% in Great Britain. for markets elsewhere. For example, when
domestic sales declined, British cereal
Par. 4 The French are also drinking less wine. manufacturers crossed the Channel to France. As
Wine consumption in France has dropped by an a result, cereal sales rose by 18% in France and
average of 6% a year in the last ten years. By 7% in Germany.
contrast, in Britain, there has been an increase of
5% a year in the same period and wine drinking
went up by 23% in 1993, the first year Britons
were allowed to import unlimited wine from
Europe for personal consumption.

1. Complete the table below with words from the text indicating either an upward or a
downward movement.



36

2. Find words in the article that mean: 2.1

1. substituting (Par. 1) ………………………………………..

2. changing(Par. 1) ………………………………………..

3. worrying, shocking (Par. 1) ………………………………………..

4. similar (Par. 2) ………………………………………..

5. carried out (Par 2) ………………………………………..

6. all the people who live together in one house (Par. 3) ……………………………………..

7. depend on (Par. 3) ………………………………………..

8. way of cooking typical of a region or country (Par. 3) ………………………………………..

9. most recent (Par. 3) ………………………………………..

10. numbers /statistics (Par. 3) ………………………………………..

11. important (Par. 5) ………………………………………..

12. parent who looks after his/her child alone (Par. 6) ………………………………………..

13. usually do something (Par. 6)………………………………………..

14. despite (Par. 6)………………………………………..

15. market in its own country (Par. 7)………………………………………..

16. easy to prepare or ready-made food (Par 3/6) ………………………………………

17. interest in buying (Par 6) ………………………………………

18. way of living (Par. 7) ………………………………………

19. in other places (Par. 7) ………………………………………

3. Write the questions for the answers provided below by referring back to the article.

Ex. What did the study find?
That the lifestyles of Europeans are becoming more similar.

1. ....................................................................................................................................
Across twenty-three countries.

2. ....................................................................................................................................
Because birth rates are falling and divorce rates are rising.

3. ....................................................................................................................................
An average of 6% a year in the past ten years.

4. ....................................................................................................................................
Because they were allowed to import unlimited quantities.

5. ....................................................................................................................................
Sweden does.

6. ....................................................................................................................................
Ireland does.

7. ....................................................................................................................................
In Ireland, Spain and Italy.

8. ....................................................................................................................................
In Spain, where the number of one- person households has risen to 17.5%.

9. ....................................................................................................................................
This increase is due to the growing number of people who live alone.

10....................................................................................................................................
Aggressive marketing by multinationals.

37

Talking about past and present habits

Translate the following sentences using the correct verb form of USUALLY - USED TO, GET
USED TO or BE USED TO.

1. Cuando primero llegué a España, me resultó difícil acostumbrarme a vivir aquí.

2. Al principio, no estaba acostumbrada a comer o acostarme tan tarde.

3. Donde yo vivo, se suele cenar a las 6.

4. Cuando yo vivía en EEUU, solía acostarme a las 10.

5. Después de 15 años, estoy acostumbrada a hacer todo más tarde

6. Ahora me cuesta acostumbrarme a los horarios americanos cuando voy a visitar a mi
familia.

7. Suelo salir de casa a las siete y media.

8. Todavía me estoy acostumbrando a vivir por mi cuenta.

See more examples and practice in LANGUAGE REFERENCE 1 at the end of this unit (pp. 54-55)

38

Describing trends. Inflation

As you have just seen on the previous page, prices do
not remain constant over time. They go up due to an
economic concept known as inflation. Watch the video
below to find out more about it.

Video 2.1 Inflation and Bubbles

1. If you get a 2% raise and prices rise by 5%, what happens? _____________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________

2. Write your own definition of purchasing power based on the information provided on the
video.________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________

3. If prices ____________, Stan can consume more while higher prices ___________________
Stan’s purchasing power. In other words, a rise in prices can have the same effect as______
___________________________________________________________________________

4. How would you define inflation? ________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

5. In order to be able to compare prices over time, economists pick out a list of goods that
represent what an average consumer buys in a year to create a “consumer basket”. The CPI,
which stands for ______________________________________, enables you to measure
_______________________ over time.

6. Explain the difference between “real” and “nominal” prices. _________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

7. The chart above shows _________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
In the U.S., prices _______________ in the 50s and 60s, ___________________ in the 70s and
80s and ___________________________________ from the 90s to the present. In Japan, on
the other hand, prices ________________________ for the past 25 years. This is called
“_____________________”. Finally, in the past few years, prices ________ reaching a peak of
___________%.

39