Construction

Essential Skills -
Communication for Construction

ES LEVEL 1 RESOURCES FOR CONSTRUCTION STUDENTS - JUNE 2009
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Essential Skills - Communication for Construction
Aims Guidance for Using Resource

It is intended that these vocationally It is not intended that these materials should be
contextualised resources will support Essential used as a fixed programme of learning but as a
Skills Literacy tutors in their efforts to make resource which tutors can use to aid them in the
programmes for construction students planning and delivery of programmes suited to
vocationally relevant. the needs of their particular groups of learners.
This resource should be used in the context of It is envisaged that tutors will bring their own
appropriately planned and structured Essential ideas to these materials and extend and enhance
Skills programmes and should be used and them in order to keep activities refreshed and
adapted appropriately within that context. dynamic for their learners.
Essential Skills tutors should ensure that they

read and understand the following DELNI
publication before they develop programmes:
ESSENTIAL SKILLS GOOD PRACTICE: THE
ASSESSMENT PROCESS. DEL NI, July 2007.
All information in this resource is current and up

to date at the time of printing (November 2008).
Author: Anne Curran
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Essential Skills Communication

To qualify in construction at NVQ Level 2 you will need Level 1 in Essential Skills Communication.
At Level 1 you will do a project on a subject you are interested in and will take an exam at the end of
your course.
This booklet will help you with the skills you will need to achieve your Level 1 in communication.
Portfolio guidance and an example portfolio is included.
Good Luck!
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CONTENTS
READING
TASK NUMBER PAGE NUMBER
1 TYPES OF TEXT 7
2 FORMAL AND INFORMAL LANGUAGE 8
3 FORMAL AND INFORMAL 9
4 FACT AND OPINION 10 - 11
5 READING AND SUMMARISING – NEWSPAPER ARTICLE 12 - 13
6 READING AND UNDERSTANDING – COMPREHENSION 14
7 READING A LEAFLET – INSTRUCT, INFORM, PERSUADE 15 - 19
8 INFORM / INSTRUCT 20
9 INSTRUCTIONS 21
10 SKIMMING / SCANNING / DETAILED READING 22
11 READING IMAGES 23 - 26
12 RESEARCHING INFORMATION USING ICT 27 - 29
ANSWERS 30 - 40
WRITING
1 FORM FILLING 42 - 44
2 MEMOS 45 - 46
3 WRITING SENTENCES 47 - 49
4 SENTENCES 50
5 CAPITAL LETTERS 51
6 COMMAS 52
7 APOSTROPHE’S 53
8 ADJECTIVES 54
9 CONJUNCTIONS 55
10 SUBJECT / VERB AGREEMENT 56 - 57
11 HOMOPHONES + CONFUSABLE WORDS 58 - 60
12 SPELLING 61
13 USING A DICTIONARY 62
14 WRITING LONGER TEXTS 63 - 64
15 WRITING LONGER TEXTS 65
16 WRITING LONGER TEXTS 66
17 WRITING A FORMAL LETTER 67 - 69
18 WRITING A REPORT ON YOUR COMPANY 70 - 71
19 PROOF READING 72
ANSWERS 73 - 91
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SPEAKING AND LISTENING

1 LISTENING CHECKLIST 94
2 SPEAKING CHECKLIST 95
3 SPEAKING TO OTHERS – ONE TO ONE 96
4 TELEPHONE CALLS 97
5 FOLLOWING SPOKEN INSTRUCTIONS 98
6 LISTENING FOR INSTRUCTIONS 99
7 TEAM MEETINGS 100 - 101
ANSWERS 102 - 107
ACTION BASED ACTIVITY GUIDANCE

PAGE NUMBER
OVERVIEW OF QUALIFICATION 109
ACTION – BASED ACTIVITY – ACTION PLAN 110
ACTION – BASED ACTIVITY TEMPLATE – HEALTH & SAFETY 111 - 121
EXAMPLE PORTFOLIO 123
REFERENCE PAGE 123
PERSONAL INFORMATION PAGE 124
MINDMAP 125
OBSERVATION RECORD – GROUP DISCUSSION 126
DISCUSSION NOTES 127
READING – SAFETY PAYS LEAFLET – WORKPLACE TRANSPORT 128 - 129
SUMMARY OF SAFETY PAYS LEAFLET 130
WRITTEN DOCUMENT 1 – AND IMAGE 131
WRITTEN DOCUMENT 2 – WORKPLACE MEMO 132
REFERENCES
PAGE NUMBER
USEFUL BOOKS AND WEBSITES 133 - 135
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Reading
Tasks and Answers
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READING TASK 1
Types of Texts
Texts are written for a variety of reasons. The two most important things to remember about a text
are who it is written for (the AUDIENCE) and why the text has been written (the PURPOSE).
Complete the table below giving the audience, purpose and type of language used in these texts.
Types of Text
Type of Text Who is the intended What is the What type
audience of this text? purpose of this of language
text? Is it to inform, is used?
instruct, persuade Formal /
etc? Informal
1 HSE Information Sheet Employers/employees or To inform Formal

trainees in Woodwork
2 Mobile phone text

to a friend
3 Letter of Application
4 College Project
5 B & Q Leaflet on
Erecting Fences
6 Post-it to mum
7 Newspaper Article
8 Job Card
9 Accident Report
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READING TASK 2
Formal/Informal Language
Formal Informal
Which of the following forms of communication is formal? Which is informal? Tick the appropriate box.
No Formal Informal
1 A company report
2 A letter of application
3 A mobile phone text message to a friend
4 A workplace memo
5 A post-it to mum
6 A letter to a friend
7 A workplace email
8 A holiday postcard
9 A short talk or presentation
10 A written college assignment
11 Interviews with workplace or college staff
12 Discussion on last night’s TV programmes with friends
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READING TASK 3
Formal and Informal Communication

True or False – circle the correct answer
1. The two most important things to remember when writing or speaking are audience and
purpose?
True / False
2. Formal communication is the correct type of communication to use in all situations.
True / False
3. It is okay to use slang in formal written documents.
True / False
4. Formal language means using very long complicated words and sentences.
True / False
5. Proper spelling, punctuation and grammar should be used in formal writing.
True / False
6. When using formal written communication it is important to use the proper layout and structure
– eg for reports, business letters, emails, memos, telephone messages etc.
True / False
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READING TASK 4
Fact and Opinion

(Persuasive Writing)
Writers often give opinions as if they were facts in order to persuade the reader to believe something
or to do something. Many advertising features include a mixture of fact and opinion. You will need to
read carefully in order to separate them. You may need to rewrite the ideas in your own words.
Read the following advertising article which contains a mixture of fact and opinion.
Property Details
Bell’s Construction has launched this fantastic

new development in the picturesque village of
Castlemore near Newcastle in Co Down.
River View takes pride of place on the hillside to the

north of the beautiful town of Newcastle. It benefits
from a southerly aspect and spectacular views
taking in the Church steeple and the beautiful
Shimna River as it meanders through this
peaceful valley.
However varied your interests are River View has something to offer both young and old.
The younger generation is spoilt for choice with a variety of activities to choose from, thus
creating a beautiful rural lifestyle in a development that is close to Newcastle town and just
fifty minutes from Belfast City.
River View offers a wonderful opportunity to be part of a rural community so close to

Newcastle town and Belfast City. Castlemore Village Hall is the hive of activity with Scouts,
Ballet, Yoga, Badminton, Martial Arts as well as Parent & Toddler Group meetings just to
mention a few.
It is a development with high-class specifications which will be a flagship development by the

Bell Group in the years to come. River View offers a range of detached and semi-detached,
three & four bedroom family homes that are being constructed to a very high quality standard
and will show great appreciation and interest in the years ahead.
www.bellgroup.com
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These are facts:
• Bell’s Construction has launched a new housing development.

• The village of Castlemore is in Co. Down.
• River View is situated on a hillside.
These are opinions:
• The new development is fantastic.

• River View is a picturesque village.
• River View takes pride of place on the hillside.
TASK
From information given in the text say which of the following statements is fact and
which is opinion. The first one has been done for you.
Statements Fact or Opinion
1 Bell’s construction has launched a new Fact

development.
2 The views from River View development are

spectacular.
3 The Shimna River flows through the valley.
4 The village of Castlemore is beautiful.
5 The younger generation is spoilt for choice with a

variety of activities to choose from.
6 The village of Castlemore is close to Newcastle.
7 Having a variety of activities to choose from

means you can create a beautiful rural lifestyle.
8 The village hall hosts martial arts.
9 The development consists of detached, semi-

detached, three and four bedroom houses.
10 Many buyers will be interested in the River View

development in the years ahead.
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Reading & Summarising - Newspaper Article “We take our obligations in respect of health and
safety very seriously and will be co-operating with
Thursday 23 April 2008 the authorities to establish the cause of this tragic
accident.’
34 year old man dies in construction
accident It is understood a crane was involved in the
accident, which was reported at around 9.15am,
at the new housing development. The Health
and Safety Executive has been informed, said
police.
Work at the site has been halted to allow police

and the Health and Safety Executive to
investigate how the terrible workplace accident
happened.
A 34-year-old carpenter, working on a new

housing development, has died in a construction
accident on the site of the old Linen Mill, North
Road, Belfast.
In a statement, Walters Construction, who is

redeveloping the Linen Mill site said, ‘It is with
regret that we can confirm that one of our
employees was involved in a fatal incident.’
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READING TASK 5
Summarising
Summarising a text means condensing it into a shorter text. A summary should contain all the main
points of the text, be written in your own words and should be written in proper sentences with capital
letters, full stops and proper punctuation and grammar.
TASK 1
Summarise the main points of the newspaper article.
TASK 2
Reading and Summarising for a Purpose
Sometimes we only need to note particular points. Write out the information a Health and Safety
Executive (N.I.) officer would need from this newspaper report. You might want to check the HSE
Dangerous Occurrences (RIDDOR) form to remind you of what you need to record.
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READING TASK 6
TASK
Answer the following questions based on the newspaper article.
1. What type of accident killed the construction worker?
2. Where did the accident happen?
3. Were the police involved?
4. What is the name of the construction company that employed the fatally injured man?
5. Is the language used in this article formal or informal? Say why you think so.
6. What is being developed on the site of the old Linen Mill?
7. How does the photographic image of the new development site help to explain the article?
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READING TASK 7
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READING TASK 7
Looking at Leaflets
Erecting Fences
This leaflet was produced by a large DIY store to give information and instructions on how to put
up a garden fence.
It also aims to persuade DIY enthusiasts to buy tools and equipment from their stores. A leaflet is a
media text. It may use features such as catch phrases ‘You can do it …,’ different fonts, colour,
illustrations etc. to make a text more interesting to the reader.
How writers persuade
The following sentence is taken from the section ‘Ideal for the job.’
‘A coat of preservative will drastically extend the life of a fence or gate.’
1. Why do you think the word ‘drastically’ was used here?
I have replaced ‘drastically’ with ‘a lot’
‘A coat of preservative will extend the life of a fence or a gate a lot.’
2. Which sentence do you think is more persuasive – i.e. which sentence would encourage you to buy
preservative for your fence?
3. Now read the following sentence and say why you think the word ‘special’ is included?
‘Instead of aggregate and cement, consider using special rapid-setting post cement to secure your
posts.’
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Read page 1 carefully and then answer the following questions. Please give your answers in complete
sentences.
4. Why does the leaflet advise you to discuss putting up your new fence with your neighbour before
you start?
5. Is it a legal requirement for you to put up a fence with the post and rails facing your own property?
6. Do you need planning permission to put up a fence?
7. Which is the most popular type of garden fence; the Lap Panel, the Combination Trellis and Lap
Panel, or the Closeboard?
8. What are the measurements of the ready-made Lap Panels?
9. Which type of fence is best for training climbing plants?
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10. Which type of fence is better for security?
11. On page 2 the instructions have been numbered. Why is this important?
12. Why do you think the illustrations have been included?
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READING TASK 8
Inform / Instruct
Writing to inform gives the reader information. Writing to instruct gives orders directly to the reader.
Which of the sentences below are writing to inform and which are writing to instruct?
Inform or Instruct?
a. Fencing is the most popular way of marking a boundary.
b. Concrete post supports produce a much sturdier fence than metal supports.
c. Measure out the position for each post and mark it by pushing a cane into what will be the centre
of each post hole.
d. Dig all the post holes. If there are a lot, consider hiring a post-hole borer.
e. With a club hammer, drive in a temporary wooden prop to hold the first post in place?
f. Metal post supports are a quicker and easier alternative to concrete but the resulting fence will not
be as solid.
g. A standard depth for a post hole is 450mm.
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READING TASK 9
Instructions
Renovating Wood
Put these instructions into their proper order.
Stripping Wood
1. Stipple on a thick coating of chemical stripper using a dabbing action.
2. Work stripper into crevices with wire wool, a small wire brush or an old tooth brush.
3. Put on your face mask.
4. Remove old finishes from flat surfaces by using a scraper with a wide, rigid blade.
5. Sand the wood to prepare for finishing.
6. Remove grease marks etc. by shaving with a finely set smoothing plane.
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READING TASK 10
Skimming, Scanning and Detailed Reading

We skim read, scan or read a text in detail depending on the information we want from the text. This
makes for efficient research.
Skimming
Skim reading a text is where you would read over the whole text quickly to get the general idea of
what it is about. For example, you might skim read a newspaper article to get the general idea of what
it is about.
Scanning
Scanning a text is where you would look over a text to find specific information. For example, we scan
the yellow pages to find a decorator or a plumber.
Detailed Reading
Often when we read it is important that we read every word. For example, when we read a set of
instructions it is important to make sure we do not leave anything out.
How would you go about reading the following texts? Would you skim, scan, or read the text in
detail? The first one is done for you.
Text Skim – Scan – Detailed Reading
The yellow pages Scan
A dictionary
A letter from the bank
A letter of application you have written
A set of instructions
A job sheet
Instructions for using power tools
A glossary
A magazine at the dentist
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READING TASK 11
Using Images
We often use images (photographs, charts, graphs, etc) to put information across.
For example, there are lots of health and safety signs used in the workplace to alert employees and
customers to dangers.
Photographs taken of you at work can be collected for your Work based Photographic Evidence
Record and used as evidence for your NVQ.
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READING TASK 11
Reading Images
Task
Read the Safety Pays information sheet on Portable Ladders/Stepladders. Now look carefully at the
picture of the man on the ladder. The picture is meant to demonstrate the information that is in the
leaflet.
How does the picture help to make the text clear and help you to understand safe practice when
using ladders? Give reasons for your answers.
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READING TASK 12
Researching Information Using ICT

(Reading for Information)
• Be clear about the topic you are exploring.

• Know the purpose of your research. For example, are you gathering information to write about
health and safety in the construction industry?
• List the web addresses that are useful to you. Say why they were of use. Use the proforma page
provided which can be added to your portfolio as evidence of your research.
• List the web addresses that you explored but were of no use to you. Say why this was the case.
Again enter these on to the page provided. Include title, author of document and date of publication.
• Read and extract the main points from the documents for the purpose you have intended, for
example, researching a career in the construction industry.
Documents Researched Using ICT

EXAMPLE
TOPIC A Career in Construction
Useful websites
Web Address Was useful because
www.constructionskillsni.org.uk This website was very useful because it gives an

overview of the construction industry in Northern
Ireland and the variety of careers I can think about
for the future. It provides links to other websites
where I can find out more about bench joinery
which is what I plan to do.
www.bconstructive.co.uk This website tells me about bench joinery, what the

job is about, what the entry requirements are and
what the training will be. It also has links to other
websites if I need to find out more.

EXAMPLE
TOPIC: A Career in Construction
Unhelpful Websites
Web Address Was unhelpful because
www.ciob.org This was more for managers and wouldn’t help me to learn
about bench joinery
Task
Now carry out your own research into Health and Safety in the Construction industry and write a
report on the issues involved. Some websites are listed at the end of the booklet.
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TOPIC:
Useful Websites:
Web Address Was useful because
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TOPIC:
Unhelpful Websites:
Web Address Was unhelpful because
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READING ANSWERS - TASK 1
Types of Texts - Answers

Texts are written for a variety of reasons. The two most important things to remember about a
text are who it is written for (the AUDIENCE) and why the text has been written (the PURPOSE).
Complete the table below saying what are the audience, purpose and type of language used in
these texts.
Types of Text
Type of Text Who is the intended What is the purpose What type
audience of this text? of this text? Is it of language
to inform, instruct, is used?
persuade etc? Formal /
Informal
1 HSE Information Sheet Employers/employees To inform Formal

or trainees in Woodwork
2 Mobile phone text to A friend To interact/keep Informal

a friend in touch
3 Letter of Application An Employer To apply for a job Formal
4 College Project A college tutor To obtain a Formal

qualification
5 B & Q Leaflet on A customer To inform, instruct Formal

Erecting Fences and persuade
6 Post-it to mum Mum To pass on some Informal

family information
7 Newspaper Article Public To inform/entertain Formal
8 Job Card Workplace colleagues Inform/instruct Formal
9 Accident Report Health and Safety Executive Inform Formal
030
Formal/Informal Language - Answers

Formal Informal
Deciding if communication calls for formal or informal language use depends on AUDIENCE AND
PURPOSE
Which of the following forms of communication is formal? Which is informal? Tick the appropriate
column.
No Formal Informal
1 A company report ✓
2 A letter of application ✓
3 A mobile phone text message to a friend ✓
4 A workplace memo ✓
5 A post-it to mum ✓
6 A letter to a friend ✓
7 A workplace email ✓
8 A holiday postcard ✓
9 A short talk or presentation. ✓
10 A written college assignment ✓
11 Interviews with workplace or college staff ✓
12 Discussion on last night’s TV programmes with friends. ✓
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Formal and Informal types of communication

Circle true or false
1. The two most important things to remember when writing or speaking are audience and
purpose.
True / False
2. Formal communication is the correct type of communication to use in all situations.
True / False
3. It is fine for slang words and phrases to be used in formal speech and writing.
True / False
4. Formal language means using very long complicated words.
True / False
5. Proper spelling, punctuation and grammar should be used in formal writing.
True / False
6. Formal communication can be understood by everyone but informal communication might only
be understood by our friends and families.
True / False
7. When using formal written communication it is important to use the proper layout and structure
– e.g. for reports, business letters, emails, memos, telephone messages etc.
True / False
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Fact and Opinion - Answers
Statements Fact or Opinion
1 Bell’s construction has launched a new Fact

development.
2 The views from River View development are Opinion

spectacular.
3 The Shimna River flows through the valley. Fact
4 The village of Castlemore is beautiful. Opinion
5 The younger generation is spoilt for choice Opinion

with a variety of activities to choose from.
6 The village of Castlemore is close to Newcastle. Fact
7 Having a variety of activities to choose from Opinion

means you can create a beautiful rural lifestyle.
8 The village hall hosts martial arts. Fact
9 The development consists of detached, semi- Fact

detached, three and four bedroom houses.
10 Many buyers will be interested in the River View Opinion

development in the years ahead.
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Summarising
Your summaries should look something like this.
1. Summary of newspaper article

A construction worker died in an accident involving a crane on a construction site at the site of the old
Linen Mill on the North Road, Belfast. A new housing development is being built there.
The accident has been reported to the Health and Safety Executive and the police are investigating
the incident. The man worked for Walters Construction who said they deeply regret the incident. They
will be working with the authorities to find out how the accident happened.
2. Health and Safety Summary

A 34 year-old worker died at 9.15am on 23rd April, 2008 on the site of the old Linen Mill at North
Street, Belfast. He worked for Walters Construction who was redeveloping the site. It is believed a
crane was the cause of the accident. The Health and Safety Executive has been informed. The
company is co-operating with the relevant authorities to find out what happened.
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Reading and Understanding - Answers

1. The construction worker was killed in an accident involving a crane.
2. The accident happened on the site of the old Linen Mill, North Street, Belfast.
3. The police were investigating the accident.
4. The man worked for Walters Construction.
5. The language used in the article is formal. It is written in complete sentences and has
proper spelling, punctuation and grammar. No slang is used.
6. A new housing development is being built on the site of the old Linen Mill.
7. The photographic image of the new development site helps to explain the article by
showing what the construction site looks like at the moment.
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Looking at Leaflets - Answers

1. The word ‘drastically’ was used to make the reader become anxious that unless they used
preservative on their gate or fence then the fence would disintegrate.
2. ‘A lot’ does not sound as worrying as the word ‘drastically’ and might not persuade a person to
buy preservative.
3. The word ‘special’ is used to make the reader think that rapid setting post cement is the best.
4. It is important to make sure you are putting your fence on ground that belongs to you.
5. It is not a legal requirement to put up a fence with the post and rails facing your own property but
there is an unwritten rule that a good neighbour does this.
6. You do not need planning permission to put up a fence unless your boundary line meets a highway.
7. The most popular type of garden fence is Lap Panel because it gives good screening and is not
expensive.
8. The measurements of the ready-made Lap Panels are 1.83m width by 9m height.
9. The Combination Trellis and Lap panel is best for training plants.
10. The Closeboard Fence is better for security.
11. The instructions have been numbered because it is important that they are carried out in the
proper order.
12. The illustrations have been included because pictures or diagrams make things much clearer.
13. Illustrations show what a person needs to do, when they need to do it and in what order they
need to do it in.
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Inform / Instruct - Answers

Writing to inform gives the reader information. Writing to instruct gives orders directly to the reader.
Which of the sentences below are writing to inform and which are writing to instruct?
Inform or Instruct?
a. Fencing is the most popular way of marking a boundary.
Inform
b. Concrete post supports produce a much sturdier fence than metal supports.
Inform
c. Measure out the position for each post and mark it by pushing a cane into what will be the centre
of each post hole.
Instruct
d. Dig all the post holes. If there are a lot, consider hiring a post-hole borer.
Instruct
e. With a club hammer, drive in a temporary wooden prop to hold the first post in place?
Instruct
f. Metal post supports are a quicker and easier alternative to concrete but the resulting fence will
not be as solid.
Inform
g. A standard depth for a post hole is 450mm.
Inform
37
Instructions – Answers
Renovating Wood
Stripping Wood
1. Put on your face mask.
2. Remove grease marks etc. by shaving with a finely set smoothing plane.
3. Stipple on a thick coating of chemical stripper using a dabbing action.
4. Work stripper into crevices with wire wool, a small wire brush or an old toothbrush.
5. Remove old finishes from surfaces by using a scraper.
6. Sand the wood to prepare for finishing.
38
Skimming Scannng and Detailed Reading - Answers
Text Skim – Scan – Detailed Reading
The yellow pages Scan Reading
A dictionary Scan Reading
A letter from the bank Detailed Reading
A letter of application you have written Detailed Reading
A set of instructions Detailed Reading
A job sheet Detailed Reading
Instructions for using power tools Detailed Reading
A glossary Scan Reading
A magazine at the dentist Skim Reading
39
Reading Images - Answers
Portable Ladders/Stepladders
The leaflet shows the safest way to use ladders. It gives a list of things that should and shouldn’t
be done.
The illustration shows that we should check that the ladder meets the British or European Standard.
It also shows that the ladder must not be damaged. A ladder must be the correct height for the job I
am doing. When using a ladder I should be wearing flat shoes. The steps on the ladder must be
clean. The feet of the ladder should be non slip. There should not be any over-reaching. I should have
a good grip. I should be facing the work I am doing. The ladder should be resting on a firm surface.
For reading task 12 students will give their own individual answer based on the guided example.
40
Writing
41
WRITING TASK 1
Form Filling
If you witness an accident at work it is a legal requirement that you report the accident to the Health
and Safety Executive if it causes death, major injury, more than 3 days absence from work or is
caused by a dangerous occurrence.
Accident report forms are pro forma documents. This means they give you a clear idea of what needs
to be included.
Task
Read the following account of a workplace accident and then fill in the HSENI form provided. Write
from Christopher’s point of view and use today’s date.
Paul Robinson and his supervisor Christopher Brown are employees of H.C. Construction, a building
and construction company. They were replacing house windows at number 17, Sea View Estate in
Holywood, and had just started back to work after lunch at 2pm.
Paul rested a ladder on some grass. The grass looked fairly stable even though it was sloping slightly
away from the building. He did not tie the ladder or secure it by any other means.
Christopher had gone inside the building to collect some tools and so was not there to foot the ladder.
Paul began carrying some silicon sealant up the ladder for the new window. He had reached a height
of about 3m when the bottom of the ladder slipped out and he fell. Paul fractured his right leg badly.
Important Information
1. H.C Construction is based at: Glen Business Park, Dunmurry. Belfast BT7 9JB
Tel: 02890 434 343
2. Christopher Brown’s address is: 17, Stevenson Road, Dunmurry. Belfast BT 17 2MR
Tel: 02890 623 624
2. Paul Robinson is 22 years old and lives at 24, Groves Road, Belfast. BT14 6NR
Tel: 02890 732 461
4. The accident happened at: 17, Sea View Estate, Holywood, Co Down. BT19 4SU
5. The Dangerous Occurances Number is R4743
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WRITING TASK 2
Memos
Memos (or ‘memorandums’) are used in the workplace to provide colleagues with information.
Memos are brief, clear and written in sentences. They include all the relevant information including
who the memo is from, who is sending it, the date it was written and what it is about. Memos are
official documents and are important records of transactions in the workplace.
This is an example of a workplace memo.
Renovations Workshops LTD

MEMO
To: All Staff
From: Health and Safety Officer
Date: 1st September 2008
Subject: Fire Awareness Training
Fire training will take place on Friday 30th September 2008 in Room 314.
This will be an all day event and all staff will be expected to attend.
Training will start at 9.15am sharp and end at 4.30pm.
Tea/coffee will be provided at 11am and 3pm.

Lunch break will be from 12.45 to 1.30pm
45
Jack Robinson’s supervisor, Tommy Watson, asked him to write a memo to his colleague Bill Adams
to remind him to pick up sealant from the warehouse at Belfast Business Park. They are great friends
and both of them have a great sense of humour.
Task
Proof-read the memo Jack left for Bill and rewrite the memo as it should have been written.
DIAMOND DESIGNS LTD
To: Yourself
From: Guess!
Date: None at present worst luck!
Subject: You’re too thick to remember the sealant!!!
get sealant when at belfest bisunes park thursday and while your there bring me double cheese
burger and Mcfries.
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WRITING TASK 3
Writing in Sentences
Sentences have to make sense. In the exercise below, the sentences have been split into two. Match
all the beginnings with the correct endings. The first one has been done for you.
Safe use of portable power tools
Beginnings
1. To fully understand a machine read the makers’ instructions/operating Manual.
2. Check that the tool’s voltage
3. Check cutters, cables, plugs, leads, guards etc. for visible defects
4. Securely hold
5. Maintain balanced footing
6. Always use
47
7. Keep work
8. Never wear
9. Hair should be
10. Allow tools to reach maximum power before
11. Allow cutters to stop moving before
12. When in doubt
48
Endings
a. before use
b. throughout each work process.
c. loose clothing or jewellery.
d. instructions/operating manual.
e. tied back.
f. ASK!
g. laying them down on bench/ground/work area.
h. safety guards.
i. matches the supply.
j. the work piece, i.e. with a clamp.
k. making any cut.
l. areas clear.
49
WRITING TASK 4
Chose the correct word/s to complete the sentence
substances cables securely
appliance force conditions
protect masks disconnect
supply NEVER switched
1. Never use power tools near flammable __________________ .
2. Keep ___________ clear of cutting edges.
3. Blades must be correctly mounted and _________________ fixed.
4. Remove power tools’ chuck key from _____________________.
5. Never ___________ a power tool through material.
6. Do not use in damp/wet ____________________ .
7. ________________ your eyes.
8. Use face/dust _____________ where there is a dust hazard.
9. _________________ power tools directly after use.
10. Make sure the power tool is ________________ off before plugging into power ___________.
11. Hands must ___________ be in the cutting area.
50
WRITING TASK 5
Capital Letters
Each sentence begins with a capital letter and ends with a full stop, question mark or an
exclamation mark.
Capital letters are also needed for ‘I’ and for names and initials of people, places and things.
Write out the letter below putting in capital letters where they should be.
6 orchard view
saintfield
co down
bt67 0ew
mr d robertson
robertson’s building supplies
43 oak woods
ballinderry
lisburn
bt3 4la
dear mr robertson
i am writing to you in response to your advertisement in the belfast telegraph for the vacancy in your
company. i have completed my nvq in bench joinery and I am currently working towards essential
skills communication and application of number and will have completed my qualifications later on
this year.
For the past two years I have worked with design kitchens in ballynahinch and have experience in
making cabinets, drawers, cupboards and benches.
I can provide references from my workplace and my training provider.
I look forward to hearing from you.
yours sincerely,
51
WRITING TASK 6
Commas
Commas are used to separate items on a list.

Use ‘and’ to separate the last two items on the list.
Example
Renovations Workshops carries out work on old houses, barns, mills and churches.
Now try this one.

Renovations Workshops replaces roofs windows doors and flooring.
Commas are also used to mark the less important part of a

sentence.
Example
The truck, which was parked by the entrance, had a flat tyre.
Now try this one

Robert left his overalls which were blue at work.
52
WRITING TASK 7
Apostrophes
Apostrophes are used to show that some letters have been left out.
Can not – can’t

Do not – don’t
Task
Now put the apostrophes in their proper place.
He is – hes
She had – shed
Does not – doesnt
They have – theyve
Apostrophes are also used to show ownership of something

Jonathan’s workbench
The workers’ lunch break
Task
Now try these
Marks assessor
The customers orders
Christophers bike
Michaels shift
53
WRITING TASK 8
Adjectives
Adjectives are words that describe
Examples
The rough wood was hard to work with.
The tall man was able to reach the shelf.
The young man worked extremely hard.
Task
Underline the adjectives in these sentences
Old John was happy that he could now retire.
The grumpy lorry driver was not at all helpful.
The pleasant workman was always whistling.
A blonde woman does the accounts for the company.
The tidy joiner left the shed spotless.
54
WRITING TASK 9
Conjunctions
Words that are used to link together sentences are called conjunctions.
Complete the sentences below by using one of the conjunctions in the box.
so but and as when
because whereas although unless
1. Tom worked long hours _______________ he wanted to finish the job.
2. The painter stopped working _______________ it was raining.
3. It is important to know the causes of accidents ___________ guard against them.
4. David wants to be a joiner _____________ Richard wants to be a plumber.
5. You should never use machinery ______________ you are trained.
6. Always wear a safety helmet ____________ working overhead.
7. The ladder was fixed securely _____________ it would not slip.
8. Joe liked the fence he erected although it was hard work.
9. Jack likes timber framed houses ___________ Sam likes brick houses best.
55
WRITING TASK 10
Verb-subject agreement.
Verbs and subjects must agree. Rewrite the sentences using the correct verb form so that it agrees
with its subject.
(Remember: Verbs are action words and the subject is who or what is doing the action)
1. The Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order require/ requires that employers must
provide a safe place of work.
2. Employers must provide equipment that are/is suitable for the job.
3. Four main types of ladders is/are used in the construction industry.
4. Standing ladders have/has rectangular or round stiles.
5. The wooden ladders was/were made from Douglas fir.
6. The aluminium ladder was/were easier to carry.
56
7. Bob do/does not like using extension ladders.
8. The wooden ladder need/needs to be reinforced with wire.
9. Paul checked that no-one was/were using the ladder before taking it.
10. Ladders has/have to be placed on flat surfaces.
57
WRITING TASK 11
Homophones
(Words that sound the same)

Rewrite the sentences below with the correct homophone. Then make up three sentences of your
own for each word.
of/off
off - opposite of on of – belonging to

- movement – fall off group – pack of cards.
change – milk goes off When saying ‘Of course’.
(Remember - if it sounds like ov it is spelt of)
1. The majority (of/off) Britons choose to buy, rather than build their own homes.
2. Re-decorating new homes to suit individual tastes adds to the cost (of off) home owning.
3. The trend (of/off) self-building has really taken (of/off).
4. If you are building your own house, any VAT you pay for materials will be refunded and taken (of/off)
the total cost.
5. The cost (of/off) housing has risen sharply in the last number (of/off) years.
6. Within the last five years, the attitude (of/off) bankers and builders merchants has changed towards
home builders.
58
they’re / their / there

they’re – they are
there – 1) a place, ‘over there’.2) Used with is, are, were, was.
their – belonging to them.
1. (they’re/there/their) planning to complete (they’re their there) house by the beginning of next year.
2. (they’re/there/their) bank provided a mortgage specifically to suit (they’re/their/there) needs as self-

builders.
3. (they’re/there/their) were many financial and other benefits to building(they’re/there/their) own

home.
4. (they’re/there/their) not sure if they can build a house.
5. Many self builders fear losing (they’re/there/their) biggest asset, (they’re/there/their) home, if things
go wrong.
where/were/we’re
where - a place
were - past tense. We were planning to build.
we’re - short for ‘we are’.
1. (where/were/we’re) planning to begin building in the autumn.

2. If I (where/were/we’re) you I would check all the details before deciding (where/were/we’re) to build.
3. (where/were/we’re) do you think is the best place to get a
mortgage?
4. (where/were/we’re) do you think is the best place to build.
59
Confusable Words
Quite/quiet
Choose the correct word to complete these sentences.
Then make up three sentences of your own for each word.
1. It takes (quite/quiet) a long time to build a new house.
2. They chose a site in (quite/quiet) a (quite/quiet) area.
3. (quite/quiet) areas do not suit everyone.
4. (quite/quiet) a number of home-owners choose to build.
Bought/brought
1.He (bought/brought) a house and spent years redecorating it before he decided to build his own
home.
2. They (bought/brought) in a professional builder to manage the building project.
3. She (bought/brought) all her building materials from Jewsons and Travis Perkins.
4. They (bought/brought) home lots of information brochures to read, (bought/brought) magazines,

and contacted mortgage lenders and builders merchants to help them make a decision.
60
WRITING TASK 12
Circle the correct spelling of these words that are commonly used in construction health and safety.
protectave protective portective

saefty safty safety
mantenance maintainence maintenance
accidints accidents accidence
training traning trainin
qualefication quilafication qualification
lectrical electrical elecricle
mashinery machinary machinery
evacuation evacution evacation
symbols simbols Symbles
substinces substances substences
dangerus dangrous dangerous
scafold scaffold scafole
occurrences occurences ocurrences
hazzards hazards hassards
manual manule manuel
equipment ecuipment quipment
mergencies emerginces emergencies
standerds standers standards
flammable flamable flammible
swich switch swish
lectricity eletricity electricity
applience appliance pliance
exposure exposhure exposere
disease disese dizease
unstabel unstable unsable
insident incidant Incident
contamination contamenation contamonation
assessmant assessment asessment
vechicle vehicel vehicle
61
WRITING TASK 13
Dictionary
If you do not know the meaning of a word, look it up in a dictionary.
Look up the meanings of the following words
Word Meaning
Maintenance
Evacuation
Exposure
Contamination
Equipment
Incident
Unstable
62
WRITING TASK 14
Writing Longer Texts
Paragraphing
When you are carrying out work in your work placement you do it in a particular order. It is no different
when you are writing a piece of text – should it be an email or an accident report.
When writing any piece of text you will need to make sure it is written in the proper order.
The following text is an extract from a workplace assessor’s report of an NVQ L2 (Bench Joinery)
college student.
The units of competency being assessed during this assessment are:

Unit No VR01 – Conform to General Workplace Safety
Unit No VR02 – Conform to Efficient Work Practices
Unit No VR03 – Move and Handle Resources
Unit No VR15 – Mark Out from Setting Out Details for Routine Products
Unit No VR 26 – Set Up and Use Fixed or Transportable Machinery
63
The paragraphs are mixed up. Can you put them back into their proper order?
Conforming to General Workplace Safety

Brian then completed each unit by fixing the top and bottom, nailing through the mitred joints
between the top and bottom gables. Again Brian used the large steel square to good effect to
square each unit.
On arrival I was met by the workshop foreman Derek Brown who led me to where Brian Jackson
was working. Brian was busy making units in ash for a major high street store.
Brian then proceeded to assemble his units. He worked very methodically as he went about the
assembly. He glued and fitted the middle shelf first, turning the unit on its side. He had a clever
method of actually nailing the shelf in place, using a large steel square placed at 90 degrees from his
bench and running the Air Power nail gun along side the blade as he nailed. Brian then fixed the
opposite gable, using the same technique as used on the other gable.
After completing each unit, Brian carefully stacked each unit in a safe and careful manner. He
explained that the next step was to router the front edges into a round.
I then observed Brian sorting out the various components that would make up the completed unit.
He had stacked all of the components on a trolley especially designed, he explained, for this
purpose. Brian had taken care to clean down his bench prior to assembly. He was fully aware of the
risk of damage to the ash.
Adam Curran (Work Based Assessor)
64
WRITING TASK 15
Working with Power tools
Paragraphs
A longer text needs to be split up into paragraphs. This makes it easier to read. A paragraph is
normally a group of sentences about one topic. Very often the first sentence will tell you what the topic
will be.
Read the following text on power tools. The first sentence of each paragraph is missing. See if you
can match the sentences to the paragraphs they belong to.
1. ______________________________________________________. The purpose of the power tool is to

enable the work to be carried out with less manual effort in a shorter time than using traditional
hand tools. Often powered hand tools can produce a greater amount of accuracy and higher
quality than the hand tools due to the speed of the cutting action.
2. ______________________________________________________. Fortunately nearly all portable tools

made today are double insulated. A double barrier of insulation is formed around all components
capable of conducting an electric current. This eliminates the need for an earth wire. Double
insulated tools bear the double square symbol and the BSI’s ‘Kite Mark’ B.S. 2764:1964 on the
tool casing.
3. ________________________________________________________. These plates give important

information such as the makers’ names and trademarks, details of attachments and spare parts,
capacity (chuck size, revolutions per minute), voltage, amperature and wattage.
4. ______________________________________________________. Other than the removal of dirt and

dust with a dry clean cloth, the servicing must be carried out by a qualified engineer, and recorded
as required by the regulations.
Paragraphs
Which sentence begins the paragraphs above?
A. Specification plates are fixed to tool castings.
B. Double insulation tools are undoubtedly safer than single insulated
C. Electrically powered hand-tools require minimal servicing and

maintenance.
D. There are many forms of powered tools and machinery used in

carpentry and joinery.
65
WRITING TASK 16
Cordless Electric Battery Drill/Screwdriver
Paragraphs
Separate this text into four paragraphs.

Although there are numerous makes, types and powers of cordless electric drills and screwdrivers,
most are supplied with the same accessories and operational facilities. Among the accessories would
be a battery charger normally requiring a 240 volt power supply with a spare battery so that one can
be on charge, whilst the other is in use. There will also be a set of screwdriver bits of various types
and sizes. The operational facilities range from two speed, variable speed (usually trigger controlled),
or both. Other facilities include forward and reverse control and torque setting to prevent over-
tightening of screws. Most are available with keyless chucks of up to 12mm capacity and the more
powerful machines can also have percussion facility. Maintenance of this kind of tool is minimal,
requiring only the regular removal of dust and dirt with a dry clean cloth, the recharging of the battery
and the occasional very light oiling of the chuck mechanism. Other servicing and repair work should
be carried out by specialists and as with all electrical tools, they should not be subjected to moisture
or wet conditions.
66
WRITING TASK 17
Writing a formal letter
Remember:
• Think of your audience – who are you writing to?
• Think of purpose – why are you writing - what do you want to achieve?
• Use the formal letter format.
• Use formal language with good spelling, punctuation and grammar.
• Write in full sentences using capital letters and full stops.
• Skip a line between paragraphs.
• Don’t use slang or conversational language.
• In the introductory paragraph get to the point quickly. Keep it short and to the point.
• In the main section give information about your work experience, what you can offer and details of
referees.
• Keep the conclusion short and to the point e.g. ‘I look forward to hearing from you.’
Task
Read over the example letter and then write a letter to an employer applying for work or asking for
work experience in order to complete your NVQ.
Use the letter frame provided to help you plan. Then write out or word process the finished version.
DON’T FORGET TO PROOF READ THE FINISHED WORK!
67
Writing a Formal Letter

EXAMPLE
Letter of Application
Name Your address

Company Post Cose
Address Telephone Number
Post Code
Date
Dear (name of person)

or Dear Sir/Madam (if you do not know the name)
INTRODUCTION.
Say why you are writing and keep it short and to the point e.g.
I am writing in reply to your advertisement in the Belfast Telegraph, 13 September, for a

bench joiner.
MAIN SECTION. Give details of your work experience and what you can offer e.g.
For the past two years I have worked with Kitchens (NI) in Belfast and have experience in
making cabinets, drawers, cupboards and benches
I am currently working towards my NVQ in Bench Joinery and taking Essential Skills
Communication and Application of Number and will have completed my qualifications
later on this year.
Offer references
Mr AN Other from Training Provider (028 9212 3456) and Mr Paul Reid from Kitchens NI
(028 942 1345) can provide me with references if they are required.
CONCLUSION
Yours sincerely (if you know the persons’ name) - Yours faithfully (if not).
Your Signature (in black or blue ink only)
Your name printed clearly
68
Writing a Formal Letter

Letter of Application
69
WRITING TASK 18
Task Your Role Within the Company

Write a Report on Your Company. How long have you worked for the company?
Give the title of your job and talk about your work
Here are some ideas to help you with writing your in a typical day. Has your work role changed over
report. You do not need to use them all. Your the time you have been with the company? What
report should be two A4 pages long. were your responsibilities when you started with
the company and what are they now? Are you
Introduction responsible for helping to train new members of
Give a general overview of the company. Give its staff e.g. remind new members of staff about
name and address and say when the company health and safety issues?
started. How many years has the company been
in operation? Talk about the kind of work it How many people are in your team? What are the
carries out. jobs of the other team members. Give details of
the types of contracts/jobs you have helped to
History/Background of the Company carry out. (Do not give confidential client
Say how the company got started. Who formed information). Have you had any interesting or
it? How many staff did the company start off with unusual experiences while working for the
– how many staff does it have now? Did the company e.g/ opportunity to travel?
company start off with having just a few staff and
develop into one that has a large workforce - has Qualifications/Training
it stayed the same? Is the company still in the What kind of qualifications and training do you
hands of the founders/owners or has it been need for your job? What training have you had so
taken over or sold on? Who used to run it and far? What training are you undertaking at present
who runs it now? and what are the qualifications you hope to gain
when you finish your training? Talk about the
What kind of contracts did the company start off workplace training and college training and give
with? How have these contracts changed over the full titles of the qualifications you have and the
the years? Has your company achieved any qualifications you are working towards. Give
awards over the years? If so what were they and details of the health and safety training within
what were they for? your company. Do you have regular training
sessions and fire drills? Are you even required to
The Company Now wear protective clothing at work? If so, say when
What kind of work is currently being carried out and why?
by the company? Is the company involved in
overseas contracts? If so say where? Is work Conclusion
carried out by your company in different towns in What are your views about the company?
various areas of Northern Ireland/Ireland/UK etc. Is it a good company to work for? (Keep your
Or does it carry out most of its work locally? comments positive – this is not the place to have
a go at your boss!). Where would you like to see
Does your company advertise? If so where? yourself in 5/10 years time?
Does it have a website – describe it and give the
address? Does the company have a logo? What
is it and what does it stand for?
70
Planning and Drafting

A report on your Workplacement
Mindmap your ideas so that you will have enough to write about. Each point or keyword on the mind
map will give you lots of information for each paragraph.
Mind Map
Health and Accidents

Safety Protective
Training Clothing
substances
H & S Law
Workshop
Safety
Working
Overhead
Work Placement
Type of Health and
work Safety Law
Health and
Safety Law Fire Safety
Electrical
Safety Risk
Safety
Code Assessment
71
WRITING TASK 19
Proof Reading
Always remember to check what you have written so that you can find and correct your mistakes.
Check that:
1. The sentences make sense and that they are properly punctuated.
2. The spelling is correct.
3. The work is broken up into sections or paragraphs.
Task
Read through the following Health and Safety Executive case study on falls from ladders and correct
any errors you find.
Accident Case Study

a maintanence fitter carring out rotine work was using a ladder
to access a ventilasion duct in a production area of a
pharmaceutical company. The ladder was not seccured but
had suction pads attatched too the feet two prevent slipping
as it was thought that this would save having a second person
pressent while the task was being undertooken.
however, the ladder did slip down the wall and ended up flat
on the ground. the employee broke both wrists, won had to be
pinned. the acident investigation found that the smooth floor,
necesary four higene standards in the production area, had
compromised the performence off the grippers.
72
WRITING ANSWERS - TASK 1
Christopher Brown
Site Supervisor
028 9062 3624

Paul Robin
H C Construction 24 Groves Road

BELFAST
BT14 6NR
Glen Business Park
Dunmurry
BELFAST 028 9073 2461
BT7 9JB
22
Construction
✔
17/11/08 SITE JOINER
✔
1400
17 Lakeview Estate, Holywood

Co. Down BT19 4SU
Fracture
Outside No 17 Right Leg
73
✔
Paul fell from a ladder which was
resting on sloping ground.
Training for safe use of ladders will

take place on 12/12/08 for all staff
✔
✔
3
Christopher Brown
17/11/08
R 4743
74
This is how the memo should have been written.
In this memo the message is clear and all the relevant details are included. No personal requests or
information should be included.
DIAMOND DESIGNS LTD

MEMO
To: Bill Adams

From: Jack Robinson
Date: 3rd July 2008
Subject: Sealant Order
Please pick up the sealant order when you’re in Belfast Business Park on Thursday 5th July 2008?
75
Writing in Sentences Answers
SAFE USE OF PORTABLE POWER TOOLS
Beginnings/Endings
1. To fully understand a machine read the makers’ instructions/operating Manual.
2. Check that the tool’s voltage before use.
3. Check cutters, cables, plugs, leads, guards etc. for visible defects
4. Securely hold the work piece, i.e. with a clamp.
5. Maintain balanced footing throughout each work process.
6. Always use safety guards.
7. Keep work areas clear.
8. Never wear loose clothing or jewellery.
10. Allow tools to reach maximum power before making any cut.
11. Allow cutters to stop moving before laying them down on bench/ground/work area
12. When in doubt ASK
76
1. Never use power tools near flammable substances.
2. Keep hands clear of cutting edges.
3. Blades must be correctly mounted and securely fixed.
4. Remove power tools’ chuck key from appliance.
5. Never force a power tool through material.
6. Do not use in damp/wet conditions.
7. Protect your eyes.
8. Use face/dust masks where there is a dust hazard.
9. Disconnect power tools directly after use.
10. Make sure the power tool is switched off before plugging into power supply.
11. Hands must NEVER be in the cutting area.
77
6 Orchard View
Saintfield
Co Down
BT67 0EW
Mr D Robertson
Robertson’s Building Supplies
43 Oak Woods
Ballinderry
Lisburn
BT3 4LA
Dear Mr Robertson
I am writing to you in response to your advertisement in the Belfast Telegraph for the vacancy in
your company. I have completed my NVQ in bench joinery and I am currently working towards
Essential Skills Communication and Application of Number and will have completed my
qualifications later on this year.
For the past two years I have worked with Design Kitchens in Ballynahinch and have experience in
making cabinets, drawers, cupboards and benches.
I can provide references from my workplace and my training provider.
Yours sincerely,
Peter Brown
78
Answer
Renovations Workshops replaces roofs, windows, doors and flooring.
Answer
Robert left his overalls, which were blue, at work.
79
Apostrophes - Answers
Apostrophes used to show that some letters have been left out.
He is – hes he’s
She had – shed she’d
Does not – doesnt doesn’t
They have – theyve they’ve
Marks assessor Mark’s assessor
The customers orders The customers’ orders
Christophers bike Christopher’s bike
Michaels shift Michael’s shift
80
Adjectives - answers
Old John was happy that he could now retire.
The grumpy lorry driver was not at all helpful.
The pleasant workman was always whistling.
A blonde woman does the accounts for the company.
The tidy joiner left the shed spotless.
81
Conjunctions - Answers
1. Tom worked long hours because he wanted to finish the job.
2. The painter stopped working as it was raining.
3. It is important to know the causes of accidents and guard against them.
4. David wants to be a joiner whereas Richard wants to be a plumber.
5. You should never use machinery unless you are trained.
6. Always wear a safety helmet when working overhead.
7. The ladder was fixed securely so it would not slip.
8. Joe liked the fence he erected although it was hard work.
9. Jack liked timber framed houses but Sam liked brick houses best.
82
Verb-subject agreement.
1. The Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order requires that employers must provide a
safe place of work.
2. Employers must provide equipment that is suitable for the job.
3. Four main types of ladders are used in the construction industry.
4. Standing ladders have rectangular or round stiles.
5. The wooden ladders was made from Douglas fir.
6. The aluminium ladder was easier to carry.
7. Bob does not like using extension ladders.
8. The wooden ladder needs to be reinforced with wire.
9. Paul checked that no-one was using the ladder before taking it.
10. Ladders have to be placed on flat surfaces.
83
Homophones - Answers
(Words that sound the same)

Of/off
1. The majority of Britons choose to buy, rather than build their own homes.
2. Re-decorating new homes to suit individual tastes adds to the cost of home owning.
3. The trend of self-building has really taken of off.
4. If you are building your own house, any VAT you pay for materials will be refunded and taken off the
total cost.
5. The cost of housing has risen sharply in the last number of years.
6. Within the last five years, the attitude of bankers and builders merchants has changed towards
home builders.
they’re / their / there

1. They’re planning to complete their house by the beginning of next year.
2. Their bank provided a mortgage specifically to suit their needs as self-builders.
3. There were many financial and other benefits to building their own home.
4. They’re not sure if they can build a house.
5. Many self builders fear losing their biggest asset, their home, if things go wrong.
where/were/we’re
1. We’re planning to begin building in the autumn.
2. If I were you I would check all the details before deciding where to build.
3. Where do you think is the best place to get a mortgage?
4. Where do you think is the best place to build?
84
Confusable Words
Quite/quiet
1. It takes quite a long time to build a new house.
2. They choose a site in quite a quiet area.
3. Quiet areas do not suit everyone.
4. Quite a number of home-owners choose to build.
Bought/brought
1. He bought a house and spent years redecorating it before he decided to build his own home.
2. They brought in a professional builder to manage the building project.
3. She bought all her building materials from Jewsons and Travis Perkins.
4. They brought home lots of information brochures to read, bought magazines, and contacted
mortgage lenders and builders merchants to help them make a decision.
It is important that your spelling is correct so that your meaning is clear.
85
It is important that your spelling is correct so that your meaning is clear.
Circle the correct spelling of these words that are commonly used in construction health and safety.
protectave protective portective

saefty safty safety
mantenance maintainence maintenance
accidints accidents accidence
training traning trainin
qualefication quilafication qualification
lectrical electrical elecricle
mashinery machinary machinery
evacuation evacution evacation
symbols simbols Symbles
substinces substances substences
dangerus dangrous dangerous
scafold scaffold scafole
occurrences occurences ocurrences
hazzards hazards hassards
manual manule manuel
equipment ecuipment quipment
mergencies emerginces emergencies
standerds standers standards
flammable flamable flammible
swich switch swish
lectricity eletricity electricity
applience appliance pliance
exposure exposhure exposere
disease disese dizease
unstabel unstable unsable
insident incidant Incident
contamination contamenation contamonation
assessmant assessment asessment
vechicle vehicel vehicle
86
Dictionary - Answers
Word Meaning
Maintenance To look after and keep in good order.
Evacuation Clearing a dangerous place of peopl
Exposure To be in contact with something in the environment that may have a harmful or
beneficial effect.
Contamination To come into contact with something that has a harmful effect
Equipment Necessary tools, clothes etc for a task.
Incident An event – something that happens
Unstable Not fixed or solid.
87
Conforming to General Workplace Safety

1. On arrival I was met by the workshop foreman Derek Brown who led me to where Brian Jackson
was working. Brian was busy making units in ash for a major high street store.
2. I then observed Brian sorting out the various components that would make up the completed unit.
He had stacked all of the components on a trolley especially designed, he explained, for this
purpose. Brian had taken care to clean down his bench prior to assembly. He was fully aware of
the risk of damage to the ash.
3. Brian then proceeded to assemble his units. He worked very methodically as he went about the
assembly. He glued and fitted the middle shelf first, turning the unit on its side. He had a clever
method of actually nailing the shelf in place, using a large steel square placed at 90 degrees from
his bench and running the Air Power nail gun along side the blade as he nailed. Brian then fixed the
opposite gable, using the same technique as used on the other gable.
4. Brian then completed each unit by fixing the top and bottom, nailing through the mitred joints
between the top and bottom gables. Again Brian used the large steel square to good effect to
square each unit.
5. After completing each unit, Brian carefully stacked each unit in a safe and careful manner. He
explained that the next step was to router the front edges into a round.
Adam Curran (Work Based Assessor)
88
Paragraphs
Working with Power Tools
Here are the answers. How did you do?
1. D There are many forms of powered tools and machinery used in carpentry and joinery. The
purpose of the power tool is to enable the work to be carried out with less manual effort in a shorter
time than using traditional hand tools. Often powered hand tools can produce a greater amount of
accuracy and higher quality than the hand tools due to the speed of the cutting action.
2. B. Double insulation tools are undoubtedly safer than single insulated. Fortunately nearly all portable
tools made today are double insulated. A double barrier of insulation is formed around all
components capable of conducting an electric current. This eliminates the need for an earth wire.
Double insulated tools bear the double square symbol and the BSI’s ‘Kite Mark’ B.S. 2764:1964 on
the tool casing.
3. A. Specification plates are fixed to tool castings. These plates give important information such as
the makers’ names and trademarks, details of attachments and spare parts, capacity (chuck size,
revolutions per minute), voltage, amperature and wattage.
4. C. Electrically powered hand-tools require minimal servicing and maintenance. Other than the
removal of dirt and dust with a dry clean cloth, the servicing must be carried out by a qualified
engineer, and recorded as required by the regulations.
89
Paragraphs
Your paragraphs should look like this. How did you go?

1. Although there are numerous makes, types and powers of cordless electric drills and screwdrivers,
most are supplied with the same accessories and operational facilities.
2. Among the accessories would be a battery charger normally requiring a 240 volt power supply with
a spare battery so that one can be on charge, whilst the other is in use. There will also be a set of
screwdriver bits of various types and sizes.
3. The operational facilities range from two speed, variable speed (usually trigger controlled), or both.
Other facilities include forward and reverse control and torque setting to prevent over-tightening of
screws. Most are available with keyless chucks of up to 12mm capacity and the more powerful
machines can also have percussion facility.
4. Maintenance of this kind of tool is minimal, requiring only the regular removal of dust and dirt with a
dry clean cloth, the recharging of the battery and the occasional very light oiling of the chuck
mechanism. Other servicing and repair work should be carried out by specialists and as with all
electrical tools, they should not be subjected to moisture or wet conditions.
Writing Answers
For 17 and 18 students will give their own individual answers based on guided example.
90
Proof Reading - Answer
Accident Case Study

A maintenance fitter carrying out routine work was using a
ladder to access a ventilation duct in a production area of a
pharmaceutical company. The ladder was not secured but
had suction pads attached to the feet to prevent slipping
as it was thought that this would save having a second person
present while the task was being undertaken.
However, the ladder did slip down the wall and ended up flat
on the ground. The employee broke both wrists, one had to be
pinned. The accident investigation found that the smooth floor,
necessary for hygiene standards in the production area, had
compromised the performance off the grippers.
91
Speaking
and
Listening
92
Speaking and listening

Speaking and listening important parts of your everyday communication within the
construction industry.
Every day you will speak to your supervisor, site visitors, colleagues, clients, college tutors
and other students.
You will provide others with important information and respond to information given to you
by others.
To obtain your Level 1 qualification in Communication you will need to take part in a
discussion.
93
SPEAKING AND LISTENING TASK 1
How Well Do I Listen?

Task: Do this self assessment exercise to see if there anything you would change about the
way you listen. Think carefully about your answers.
Often Sometimes Hardly ever

PAYING ATTENTION
Do you not bother to listen carefully and pick
out relevant information?
Are you inattentive when others are speaking?
Do you forget to show you are listening e.g.
by providing feedback such as ‘Yes I see?’
Do you stay focused or are you easily
distracted by things that are going on around you?
Do you show irritation when someone
is speaking to you?
ATTITUDE TO SPEAKERS
Do you only bother to listen properly if you are
speaking to a friend or someone you like?
If you do not find a topic interesting do you
stop paying attention to the speaker?
Do you need to like a speaker’s appearance
before you will listen to them?
Do you refuse to listen to another person’s
point of view?
Does the way a person speaks sometimes
put you off?
Do you get bored if someone talks for
a long time?
ALLOWING OTHERS TO SPEAK

Do you allow others time to finish speaking?
Do you assume you know what others
are going to say next?
Do you interrupt if you think someone’s
conversation is boring?
When others are speaking, do you interrupt
and start talking about something else?
94
HOW WELL DO I SPEAK?
Often Sometimes Hardly ever
RESPONDING TO OTHERS
When you are asked a question do
you mumble a reply?
If you think a question is silly do you
give a silly answer?
Is your non-verbal communication
(body language) stand-offish or aggressive
when you do not like the person you are talking to?
Do you just cut in when others are speaking
rather than say ‘excuse me’ or use other
appropriate phrases to interrupt?
Do you speak over the top of others rather
than taking turns to speak?
Do you ignore the opinions of others?
SPEAKING TO SUIT THE SITUATION

If you are asked for information about your
job do you only give enough information to
get the supervisor off your back?
Do you think it is not worthwhile trying to
speak clearly because nobody ever
listens to you anyway?
Do use an aggressive tone?
Do you not bother to ask questions
when there is something you do not understand?
PROVIDING RELEVANT INFORMATION

At a meeting or in a discussion do you
let others do all the talking?
Do you think it is not worthwhile taking the
trouble to research information to prepare
for discussions or meetings?
Do you think it is a waste of time putting
ideas and information into its proper order?
95
Speaking to Others
Chatting to friends or friendly people in a relaxed atmosphere is usually fairly easy.
However, speaking to people in a formal or work situation, or speaking to someone we do not know very
well, or who is angry or upset, or has different ideas from us, can sometimes be very difficult.
In these situations it is important to plan what we want to say.
ONE TO ONE
Look at the situations below and jot down some notes on how you would go about planning
for these.
Meeting and looking after a site visitor.
Dealing with an angry customer.
A colleague has taken equipment you

need to complete the job you are working on.
Explaining fire drill to a new

employee / student.
96
Using the Telephone

Telephones play an important role in the workplace for the company, its suppliers, clients and
other employees. Phone calls at work are mainly formal and it is important that the message
you put across to customers, clients etc is that your company is professional, respectful and
competent.
Making a Telephone Call

It is important when making a telephone call to speak clearly and use a pleasant tone.
Give your own name and the name of your company and say why you are calling. Keep your
message brief and to the point. Include all the relevant information and do not include a lot of
unnecessary detail that will confuse the person you are calling.
Task 1
Which of these greetings do you think is correct?
1. ‘This is Mark – who’s that? The bonding order’s not here yet. Why not?’
OR
2. ‘Good morning. This is Mark Lyness from MR Construction. Could I speak to someone
dealing with orders please?’
Task 2
Which of these greetings would you use to receive a visitor to the site or when answering the
telephone at work?
1. ‘OK then mate?’
2. ‘Good Morning, how can I help you?’
3. ‘This phone hasn’t stopped all day!’
97
Following Spoken Instructions

It is important to listen carefully to instructions so that jobs can be carried out properly and in the
correct order.
Instructions are not pieces of advice or suggestions about how to carry out a job. Instructions are
about how a job MUST be carried out so that the end result is a job completed safely and to the
proper standards. Instructions use words that give orders e.g. ‘do,’ or ‘do not’ etc.
Task
Which of these are instructions?
1. It is better not to start building on a wet day.
2. Do not use the ladder if it is unsafe.
3. Clear up the mess as you go.
4. Report any defects in the scaffolding.
5. Tom prefers to work on interiors.
98
Listening for instructions
Task
How to Mix Concrete in a Wheelbarrow
Often instructions are given along with other information so it is important to listen carefully and pick
out the actual instructions from the other information.
Jenny’s site supervisor is talking her through how to go about mixing concrete in a wheelbarrow.
Read the information given to her and underline or highlight the instructions (i.e. the things she must
do).
“First of all I want you to think about the health and safety issues you will need to consider. For
example, did you know that too much contact with fresh concrete can burn the skin? So you will need
to wear goggles, rubber boots, gloves and long sleeves when you are working with concrete. Use a
spade or a small shovel. Make concrete mix using 1 part cement, 2 parts sand and 3 parts gravel. To
fill the wheelbarrow to three-quarter full, put in 6 spades of gravel, four spades of sand and 2 spades
of cement. Mix it all together and then add water. Next add half a bucket of water – just a small
amount at a time. When mixing, use a smaller spade because it is easier to manage than a larger one.
Fold the mixture over from underneath with the spade each time you add a little water until it takes on
a uniform constituency. Now the concrete is ready to use.”
Remember to carry out instructions in their proper order. Listen out for words and phrases
that tell you which order to carry out a task such as:
• Firstly
• Secondly
• Thirdly
• Before that
• Then
• Next
99
Team Meetings
Sometimes you will need to take part in meetings:
• Site Meetings - with the building team to discuss project development.
• Informal Meetings – with some members of the team to discuss a part of the project.
• One to one discussions with team members to discuss how things should be done on a day to
day basis.
Team meetings can be formal or informal.
Formal meetings will have a formal agenda, given out before a meeting, to let you know what is being
discussed.
Good speaking and listening skills will help you to take part in formal and informal meetings.
Good speaking and listening skills are:

• Knowing what to say – know what the meeting is about.
• Knowing when to say something – everyone should have a chance to speak.
• Knowing how to say something – i.e. use appropriate formal / informal language.
• Maintain good eye contact with others.
• Speak clearly in order to be heard by everyone.
This means listening carefully to what has already been said and thinking about how you can add to
what others are saying.
Responding to another person when they have different ideas from me.
It is important that any response you give to another person’s point of view is polite and considerate.
Everyone’s point of view should be respected even if we do not agree with it.
It is important too, to look out for what is fact and what is opinion. Someone’s point of view is just
their opinion and you are as much entitled to your point of view as they are of theirs.
Turn Taking
It is important to respect the turn taking rights of others at meetings and during discussions. We must
allow time for others to speak.
Remember To Prepare for Meetings:

• Know what the meeting is about.
• Think about the questions you are likely to be asked?
• Think about the questions you will want to ask?
100
Task
Which of the following points are important to remember when taking part in a discussion?
Important ? Yes / No
Listen carefully to pick out the main points.
Have some cool jokes you can tell to impress the boss.
Ignore all other distractions that may occur.
Watch out for body language, yours and others.
Look at the person who is speaking.
Take note of important details such as names, places, dates, times and so on.
Have a smart answer ready for anyone who does not agree with you.
Respect other peoples points of view.
Ask for clarification if there is something you do not understand.
Give reasons why you hold a certain point of view.
101
SPEAKING AND LISTENING ANSWERS -

TASKS 1 & 2
SPEAKING AND LISTENING - ANSWERS
YOUR ANSWERS SHOULD MOSTLY BE IN THE ‘HARDLY EVER’ COLUMN.
IF NOT, THINK CAREFULLY ABOUT HOW YOU ARE INTERACTING WITH OTHERS.
102

TASK 3
Speaking to others - Answers
Meeting and looking after a site visitor. • Be welcoming

• Greet appropriately
• Ask who they have come to see & purpose of their visit.
• Ask that they complete the visitor’s log
• Let relevant people know visitor has arrived
• Provide visitor with site safety information
Dealing with an angry customer. • Listen carefully to the customer and note important points.
• Be calm and helpful.
• Ask supervisor to speak to customer if situation is too
difficult for you.
A colleague has taken equipment • Keep calm

you need to complete the job you • Make sure your body language is not aggressive
are working on. • State facts clearly
• Negotiate a solution
Explaining fire drill to a new colleague • Make sure you know the drill
or student. • Give information in correct order
• Keep to the point
• Do not add in information that is not relevant
103

TASK 4
Using the Telephone – Answers
Task 1 Answer
The second greeting is the appropriate one. The tone of the first greeting is not respectful and even
sounds aggressive. It also provides very little of the information that’s needed.
Task 2 Answer
No. 2
104

TASK 5
Following Spoken Instructions Task 1 - Answers
1. Do not use the ladder if it is unsafe. (Instruction)
2. Clear up the mess as you go. (Instruction)
3. Report any defects in the scaffolding. (Instruction)
105

TASK 6
Listening for instructions - Answers

Wear goggles, rubber boots, gloves and long sleeves when you are working with concrete. Use a spade
or a small shovel. Make concrete mix using 1 part cement, 2 parts sand and 3 parts gravel. To fill the
wheelbarrow to three-quarter full, put in 6 spades of gravel, four spades of sand and 2 spades of cement.
Mix it all together and then add water. Next add half a bucket of water – just a small amount at a time.
When mixing, use a smaller spade because it is easier to manage than a larger one. Fold the mixture over
from underneath with the spade each time you add a little water until it takes on a uniform constituency.
106

TASK 7
Task - Answers
Which of the following points are important to remember when taking part in a discussion?
Important ? Yes / No
Listen carefully to pick out the main points. Yes
Have some cool jokes you can tell to impress the boss. No
Ignore all other distractions that may occur. Yes
Watch out for body language, yours and others. Yes
Look at the person who is speaking. Yes
Take note of important details such as names, places, dates, times and so on. Yes
Have a smart answer ready for anyone who does not agree with you. No
Respect other peoples points of view. Yes
Ask for clarification if there is something you do not understand. Yes
Give reasons why you hold a certain point of view. Yes
107
ABA
Guidence
108
The qualification for this subject is Essential Skills Certificate in Adult Literacy at Level 1.
There are two elements to this award. You must:
• complete a project of work on a given subject.
• be successful in an unseen examination.
The portfolio you will be building is based on the theme Citizen and the Community and built around
the topic ‘The Environment.’
The project/portfolio requirements are:
1. To read and summarise information on your topic.
2. To write two different types of documents on your topic.
3. To take part in a group or one-to-one discussion. This does not need to be on your given topic.
4. To use at least one image effectively either to obtain or convey information.
It is useful to use a mind map to explore relevant information and to frame a question in order to plan
your research. For example, a question you might want to explore could be ‘What are the planning
issues to be considered before carrying out a job in construction?’ Your research and portfolio
building can then be based around this question. Think about other questions you might want to ask
about and explore.
Your tutor will guide you in your choice of topic and how you go about gathering evidence for your
portfolio.
109
ACTION BASED ACTIVITIES IN LITERACY FOR CONSTRUCTION STUDENTS
Action Based Activities are the tasks you carry out to complete your project. The evidence is collected
into a portfolio. Your tutor will guide you in your choice of ABA and help you to explore options. These
are the activities you will need to cover.
1. Chosing a Topic
Making a Mindmap.
Framing a Question.
Locating Relevant information.
Action Planning.
2. Reading to obtain information

Read for a purpose i.e. to find out information to answer your question.
Making notes on the information gathered.
3. Discussions
Taking part in a group or one-to-one discussion about your topic.
4. Writing Documents
Writing one type of document on your chosen subject
Writing a different type of document.
5. Using an image. You will need to use an image or images to gain information or to provide
information.
6. Compiling the Portfolio

Bringing together all the evidence and indexing information.
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
Example
Portfolio
122
EXEMPLAR PORTFOLIO
Essential Skills – Communication Level 1
Candidate Name A Student
Registration Number REG 123
Registration Date 23/05.08
Assessor Name A Tutor
Location of Evidence Page Number

1.1 Discussion Observation sheet 3
1.2 Reading Information obtained 7
1.3 Writing Document 1 8+9
Document 2 10
Image
Candidate signature A Student Date 20.08.08
Assessor signature A Tutor Date 20.08.08
Internal Verifier signature _____________________ Date _______________
123
Action-Based Activity
Level 1
Student Name: A Student
Ess. Sk. Comms Tutor: A Tutor
Vocational Course: NVQ Bench Joinery
Vocational Course Tutor: B Tutor
Topic: Health and Safety in the Construction Industry
Project Question: How important is Health and Safety training in the construction industry?
124
Mind Map
Accidents
Health and
Safety Protective
Training Clothing
Substances
Slips, Trips
and Falls
Workshop
Safety
Working
Overhead BUILT
ENVIRONMENT
Type of HEALTH & SAFETY Health and
Work Safety Law
Signs and
Symbols Fire Safety
Electrical
Safety Risk
Safety
Code Assessment
125
Take part in either a one to one discussion or a group discussion.
Topic
How important is it to make a risk assessment when planning a job in construction?
Provide information that is relevant A. researched and made notes on

to the subject and purpose of the the topic for discussion. He made the
discussion. point that accidents don’t just happen;
there is always a reason for them and
it is important to make sure that we do
all we can to prevent them. He stated
that often we do not get a second
chance.
Communicate clearly in a way that He developed C’s point that often

suits the situation and respond the simplest things cause serious
appropriately to others. accidents because all it takes to
fall off a ladder is wet boots.
Signed Candidate: A Tutor Date: 15.08.08
Signed Assessor: A Student Date: 15.08.08
126
Discussion Notes
Topic: How important is carrying out a risk assessment when planning a construction job?
Why make a risk assessment?

To prevent accidents – ‘accidents don’t just happen, there is always a reason for them’ (HSE Accident
Prevention Leaflet – Safety Pays)
Making a risk assessment

• It is important to know the range of protective clothing and equipment and when they should be
used.
• Know the duties of the employer, employee under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
• Know how to go about using electricity and electrically powered tools safely.
• Understand how to identify types of hazards in tools, equipment and premises.
• Know how to go about dealing with identified hazards and who they should be reported to.
What could happen if I don’t make a risk assessment?

• Unsafe practices
• Accidents
• Death
• Ill health
• Loss of sight
• Broken bones
• Electric shock
• Amputation
• Loss of Work – maybe business closed down.
Questions or ideas I would like clarified

I have been carrying out electrical work safely at home. Why do my employers and college tutors
need me to train?
Conclusions
Taking the time to carry out a thorough risk assessment can seem like a real nuisance, especially
when you are short on time to complete a job to meet a deadline.
However, we all agreed that it was never a good idea to cut corners on risk assessment as it could
end in tragedy, for ourselves or someone else.
127
128
129
Reading and Summarising

Workplace transport, involving mainly fork lift trucks, lorries, cars, vans etc., cause 70 deaths and over
1000 major injuries each year.
It is important to look at what kinds of accidents are happening and to make changes that are
necessary to make things safer.
Think of how the layout of the work area can be arranged to separate pedestrians and vehicles. Try to
avoid reversing or limit reversing to particular areas.
Make sure any necessary traffic control features such as pedestrian crossing points etc are set up.
Loading or unloading should take place away from traffic and pedestrians and on flat ground. Vehicles
should not be overloaded.
Vehicles should be well maintained and drivers should be trained to operate them.
Vehicles should be parked securely before being left unattended.
Bibliography
Safety Pays, Workplace Transport Safety (Health and Safety Executive)
130
WRITTEN DOCUMENT 1
IMAGE
Health and Safety at Restorations Workshops

Report on Health and Safety in My Work Placement
I am a first year apprentice with Restorations Workshops, which is a very busy joinery outlet. When I first
started with the company, the new employees were given a talk on health and safety at work practices.
We were shown around the building and given fire awareness induction training to make sure everyone
was familiar with the company’s fire procedures and knew what to do in the event of a fire, including
evacuation.
At work there is a Safety Code which all the employees need to know. You must always think before you
act and choose safe and correct methods of working. It is important never to take a chance with danger
because it might end in tragedy for yourself or someone else.
My supervisor pointed out the type of protective clothing I was to wear and the importance of wearing it.
How you lift and handle equipment is important too as wrong lifting can cause injury. It is also important
to keep workshop tidy and free from hazards and if you notice anything that is not safe you need to
report it immediately.
When I first began work with the company I thought the machinery and equipment looked very
complicated. I knew I had to be very careful when using it and my employer told me I must seek
additional support from other members of staff. It is important to make sure equipment and tools are put
away and that machines are not left on and that your work station is left tidy. First aid boxes must be
provided by your employer and you should be aware of where it is.
All the employees receive training in risk assessment, which personal protective clothing and equipment
to use. We learn about fire precautions, electrical safety, machinery, hazardous substances and manual
handling.
My supervisor pointed out the protective clothing I was to wear and the importance of wearing it. Each
time I use machinery or other equipment I need to check them to make sure there are no health and
safety problems. If there are problems, I report them to my supervisor right away.
Also each day you must sign in and out of the workshop as the supervisor needs to know, for health and
safety reasons, that the people present have a right to be on the premises.
Signs and symbols are positioned all around the workshop. They help to warn people about the health
and safety dangers that they should be aware of. This is one of a number of signs in our workshop set
up to stop unauthorised personnel from getting into the workshop and possibly getting injured.
When carrying out a risk assessment at work you need to work within the limits of your own role and
then if you feel you cannot do the job on your own then you do not proceed. If you feel that you cannot
do the job or that it might cause you danger in any way then stop and inform your employer.
Since I have carried out my training at Renovations Workshops and at college, I am now much more
aware of what is going on around me in my workplace. I know how health and safety issues are to be
dealt with and what to do in an emergency.
131
WRITTEN DOCUMENT 2
MEMORANDUM
Renovations Workshops LTD
To: All Staff
From: Health and Safety Officer
Date: 1st September 2008
Subject: Fire Awareness Training
Fire training will take place on Friday 30th September, 2008 in Room 314.
This will be an all day event and all staff will be expected to attend.
Training will start at 9.15am sharp and finish at 4.30pm.
Tea/coffee will be provided at 11am and 3pm.

Lunch break will be from 12.45 to 1.30pm.
Lunch will be provided so it is important that you let me know if you cannot attend.
132
References
133
Useful Websites and Books

There are many useful books, articles and websites you can use to research documents for your
Essential Skills Action-based Activity or just to practice your skills.
www.bbc.co.uk/skillswise
This website has a wealth of information on all aspects of communication for Level 1 students. There
are fact sheets at different levels which explain things clearly and worksheets that allow you to work
on reading, writing, spelling, grammar, vocabulary and listening skills. There are sports and news
quizzes and cool interactive games. Have fun!
Your Own Work and NVQ Construction Tutor’s Handouts

You can do your Action-Based Activity (project) on your job or the construction course you are doing
at the moment. The articles that your construction tutor gives you will provide you with documents
that can be used in your Essential Skills action-based activity. For example, you will have information
on working safely with ladders. Why not use it to create a set of instructions on using ladders safely
for your project? An example Level 1 Essential Skills portfolio (Action-based Activity) is included so
that you can see how you might use the information your NVQ construction tutor gives you.
www.safetyline.wa.gov.au
www.bbc.co.uk/health/healthy_living/health_ at_work
http:www.hse.gov.uk/construction/experience.htm#ladders
Pictures highlighting problems with how ladders are being used and how things could be put right.
http://hse.gov.uk/construction/information.htm
Free downloadable information for the construction industry. It covers such areas as health and safety,
risk assessment and workplace transport. You will find more links to PDF guides.
http://hse.gov.uk/construction/clients.pdf
Guidelines for clients on construction sites and what they need to be aware of.
http://www.constructionskillsni.org.uk
This is Constructionskills in NI website containing information on qualifying the workforce, improving
business and recruiting new entrants.
http://www.bconstructive.co.uk
List of careers and job profiles of occupations within the construction industry.
134
Books
Brett,P (2002)(2nd Edition) A Building Craft Foundation -
Construction NVQ Series Levels 1 & 2 Nelson Thornes
Brett,P (2002) (2nd Edition) Site Carpentry and Joinery Construction NVQ Series Levels 1& 2 Nelson
Thornes
Brett,P (2002) (2nd Edition) Bench Joinery - Construction NVQ Series Levels 1 & 2- Nelson Thornes
Brett,P (2002) (2nd Edition) Wood Occupations - Construction NVQ Series Level 1 - Nelson Thornes
The Guide to Workplace Health and Safety Health and safety Executive for Northern Ireland (also on
line) 83 Ladas Drive, Belfast BT6 9FR, Northern Ireland Tel: 028 9024 3249
135
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learning
and skills
development
agency
136

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Essential Skills -

Communication for Construction

Aims Guidance for Using Resource

Essential Skills tutors should ensure that they

All information in this resource is current and up

Author: Anne Curran

Essential Skills Communication

SPEAKING AND LISTENING

ACTION BASED ACTIVITY GUIDANCE

1 HSE Information Sheet Employers/employees or To inform Formal

2 Mobile phone text

3 A mobile phone text message to a friend

9 A short talk or presentation

10 A written college assignment

11 Interviews with workplace or college staff

12 Discussion on last night’s TV programmes with friends

Formal and Informal Communication

2. Formal communication is the correct type of communication to use in all situations.

3. It is okay to use slang in formal written documents.

5. Proper spelling, punctuation and grammar should be used in formal writing.

Fact and Opinion

Bell’s Construction has launched this fantastic

River View takes pride of place on the hillside to the

River View offers a wonderful opportunity to be part of a rural community so close to

It is a development with high-class specifications which will be a flagship development by the

These are facts:

• Bell’s Construction has launched a new housing development.

These are opinions:

• The new development is fantastic.

Statements Fact or Opinion

1 Bell’s construction has launched a new Fact

2 The views from River View development are

3 The Shimna River flows through the valley.

4 The village of Castlemore is beautiful.

5 The younger generation is spoilt for choice with a

6 The village of Castlemore is close to Newcastle.

7 Having a variety of activities to choose from

8 The village hall hosts martial arts.

9 The development consists of detached, semi-

10 Many buyers will be interested in the River View

Work at the site has been halted to allow police

A 34-year-old carpenter, working on a new

In a statement, Walters Construction, who is

1. What type of accident killed the construction worker?

2. Where did the accident happen?

3. Were the police involved?

6. What is being developed on the site of the old Linen Mill?

How writers persuade

‘A coat of preservative will drastically extend the life of a fence or gate.’

1. Why do you think the word ‘drastically’ was used here?

I have replaced ‘drastically’ with ‘a lot’

‘A coat of preservative will extend the life of a fence or a gate a lot.’

6. Do you need planning permission to put up a fence?

8. What are the measurements of the ready-made Lap Panels?

9. Which type of fence is best for training climbing plants?

10. Which type of fence is better for security?

12. Why do you think the illustrations have been included?

a. Fencing is the most popular way of marking a boundary.

g. A standard depth for a post hole is 450mm.

Put these instructions into their proper order.