Unit 2 1 Read the essay question, then decide if each statement below is true or false.
Writing skills
Working in a team requires different skills to working individually. To what extent do you agree?
a In this essay, you must say which method you prefer. b You can express your own opinion in your essay. c In your essay, you must explore the advantages and disadvantages of both methods of working. d You can agree completely with the proposition, agree partially with it or argue against it. e In your essay, you should include examples of different skills needed at work.
2 In pairs. Brainstorm a list of skills and abilities that are needed at work. 3
Working alone Both
In pairs. Categorize each skill on your list according to whether it is more important when working alone or when working in a team. Are there any skills that you think are useful in both situations?
Working in a team
4
Paragraphs a–e are from an essay that answers the question in 1. Read the paragraphs and number them in the correct order to make an essay.
a In my view, there are several core skills and abilities that are important both in collaborative and individual working situations. One of these is punctuality. This is vital when attending meetings with colleagues or when delivering work done alone to a deadline. It is also very important to be
able to concentrate well when participating in team discussions and when working alone.
b The skills needed in teams are somewhat different. Good communication skills are very important. You must express ideas to teammates, but also listen respectfully to them. It is often necessary to negotiate agreements with other team members and adapt or give up some of your own ideas. Sometimes the ability to prevent arguments and help the team reach an agreement is
a very useful skill.
c Nowadays, the majority of jobs require teamwork, even if the work is carried out individually. For example, doctors examine patients on their own but work in teams when carrying out operations. Aircraft engineers design a specific component alone but need to collaborate with colleagues to
make sure that their design works as a whole.
d To conclude, I agree that working in teams requires different skills to the ones needed for working alone, but I believe there are key skills that are common to both methods of working.
e Some skills are more important when working individually. The ability to motivate yourself and set your own goals is very important when you are working on your own. Self-discipline is useful so that you do not waste time when there is nobody checking you every minute.
34 English for the 21st Century • Unit 2
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