Audio-Recording Online

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Speaking about an Engineering Problem

“Speaking about an Engineering Problem” is an activity that utilizes www.audiopal.com to describe an engineering problem and then give a suggested solution. The focus of the activity is to use the tool so that learners are encouraged to speak clearly and concisely about a problem and its solution.

Outcomes:

The learner will be able to:

  • Speak clearly and concisely using an audio-recording
    • One audio-recording presenting problem and solution
    • One audio-recording providing feedback
  • Pose a problem with an answer
  • Provide feedback appropriately using target language structures

Preparation:

  • Consider pragmatics language for giving feedback in culturally appropriate way
  • Discuss vocabulary considerations such as providing feedback appropriately. For example:
    • “I feel that your proposed solution is interesting.” Or
    • “Have you thought about these factors?”
  • Discuss audio-recording expectations as to length, vocabulary used, and content
  • How to choose a problem and present it with a solution

Delivery:

  1. Introduce the tool if necessary
    • Clarify participation expectations
      • Grading criteria
      • i.e. one audio-recording; one feedback recording
    • Discuss pronunciation expectations
  2. Choose a simple engineering challenge (e.g. Fix road potholes in Edmonton) and present a possible solution
    • Do research related to the problem and find solutions
    • Create an audio-recording describing the problem and suggested solution
      • Create a 1 minute recording as per the following suggestion: "we have researched the pothole problem on Edmonton's streets which are due to the severe weather and the thaw / freeze cycle. We recommend to fix the situation that engineers do the following…"
      • To see an activity example using this tool:
  3. Share audio-recording with partner; request feedback and give feedback about the presentation using www.audiopal.com
    • Consider sample wording: “this is our feedback to group #1’s audio-recording. We feel that their recommendations would work…”
      • Post the recording on your blog or wiki page

Activity Reference Links:

The Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) skills addressed by this activity are:

  • Listening
  • Speaking

Speaking

ES: Global Description CLB: Global Description ES: Speaking Tasks CLB: Speaking Tasks
Functions:
  • Moderate oral communication demands.
  • Follows and gives detailed multi-step instructions.
  • Leaves and receives complex recorded messages.
Information:
  • Moderate range of subject matter, familiar topics, usually one main issue.
  • Moderate range of general and context specific or technical vocabulary and idioms.
Context:
  • Communicates one-on-one on detailed an specific matters, often on the phone or by listening to recorded information.
  • Gives a short talk or directions to a small group.
  • Selects from a moderate range of formats and styles to present information.

Presents information in a coherent connected discourse. (CLB 6)

Gives spoken instructions. (Uses correct sequence of steps, clear reference, correct stress and intonation). (CLB 6)

Interacts with co-workers when co-ordinating tasks or discussing procedures and activities. Informs co-workers of progress or unexpected conditions.

Trains and gives directions and instruction to new employees or informs less experienced co-workers of their duties.

Gives clear instructions in a workplace situation related to moderately complex technical tasks. (CLB 7)

Makes a simple formal suggestions and provides a reason. (CLB 6)

Exchanges information with fellow supervisors and with superiors, clarifies information and co-ordinates work.

Makes an extended suggestion on how to solve an immediate problem or make an improvement. (CLB 7)