IV Writing
1. Read this report on the performance of the Laura Ashley Group. Write out all the phrases used to describe relationships between causes and their results.
Company Report
The strong turnaround in Laura Ashley's results this year can be attributed to several factors. One of these was our new simplified management structure which led to faster decision-making processes and substantial cost reductions. A second factor was the increase in sales which resulted from new merchandising techniques and greater employee involvement.
However, in North America our performance was disappointing. This was largely due to unsatisfactory margins, brought about by problems with stock control and distribution. We expect significant changes in next year's results. Our new alliance with Federal Express will lead to better information systems and consequently an improvement in the flow of goods within our supply chain.
2. Write short notes in the empty boxes of this diagram to show the chains of events.
3. Use this diagram to write a similar report on the performance of the Chemicals Division of another company. Follow the same pattern.
V Speaking
A
STEP analysis is a useful business tool for examining ways in which
organizations need to adapt to changing external environments. STEP
stands
for sociological, technological, economic, and political changes.
Perform
a STEP analysis of your company or department. Discuss how your work
is being affected (or may be affected) by these factors.
VI Content of visual aids.
1. Label the following using the words from the boxes.
pie chart map bar chart table diagram line graph flow chart plan |
dotted line curve fluctuating line vertical axis broken line undulating line horizontal axis solid line |
VII Reading
Read the following information about using graphs in presentations and fill in the following table.
Type of graph |
Definition |
When to use
|
Working drawings
|
|
|
Tables
|
|
|
Bar graphs
|
|
|
Line graphs
|
|
|
Pie graphs
|
|
|
Illustrations
|
|
|
Diagrams
|
|
|
Photographs
|
|
|
Exploded views
|
|
|
Schematic diagrams |
|
|
Flowcharts
|
|
|
Timetables or Gantt charts
|
|
|