CBLM Basic 1

COMPETENCY BASED LEARNING MATERIAL

Sector:

AGRI- FISHERY
Qualification:

ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NCII

Unit of Competency:
PARTICIPATE IN WORKPLACE COMMUNICATION
Module Title:
PARTICIPATING IN WORKPLACE COMMUNICATION
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority

Balicuatro College of Arts and Trades
Allen, Northern Samar
HOW TO USE THIS COMPETENCY BASED LEARNING MATERIAL
Welcome to the Module Participating in Workplace Communication.
This module contains training materials and activities for you to complete.
The unit of competency Participate in Workplace Communication
contains the knowledge and skills and attitudes required for environmental
protection. It is one of the specialized modules at National Certificate level II
(NC II).
You are required to go through a series of learning activities in order to
complete each learning outcomes of the module. In each learning outcome
there are Information Sheets to help you better understand the required
activities. Follow these activities on your own and answer the self –check at the
end of each learning outcome. You may remove a blank answer sheet at the
end of each module (or get from your facilitator/trainer) to write your answers
for each self-check. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask your facilitator
for assistance.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
You may already have some or most of the knowledge and skills covered
in this module because you have:
 Been working in the same industry for some time.
 Already completed training in this area.
If you can demonstrate to your trainer that you are competent in a
particular skill or skills, talk to him/her about having them formally
recognized so you won’t have to do the same training again. If you have
qualifications or Certificates of Competency from previous trainings, show them
to your trainer. If the skills you acquired are still relevant to this module, they
may become part of the evidence you can present for RPL.
A Trainee Record Book (TRB) is given to you to record important dates,
jobs undertaken and other workplace events that will assist you in providing
further details to your trainer/assessor. A Record of Achievement/Progress
Chart is also provided to your trainer to complete/accomplish once you have
completed the module. This will show your own progress.
DIRECTION FOR USE OF THE CBLM
BCAT Document No.:

Learning Guide
QA Issued by: BCAT Date:
Development Procedure
SYSTEM Revision No.:00 Page 2 of 68
Learning Guide Development Procedure for BCAT QA System
This module was prepared to help you achieve the required competency:
Participating in Workplace Communication. This will be the source of
information for you to acquire the knowledge and skills in this particular
module with minimum supervision or help from your trainer. With the aid of
this material, you will acquire the competency independently and at your own
pace.
 Talk to your trainer and agree on how you will both organize the
training of this unit. Read through the module carefully. It is divided
into sections which covers all the skills and knowledge you need to
successfully complete in this module.
 Work through all the information sheets and complete the activities
in each section. Do what is asked in the INSTRUCTIONAL SHEETS
and complete the SELF-CHECK. Suggested references are included to
supplement the materials provided in this module.
 Most probably, your trainer will also be your supervisor or
manager. He/she is there to support you and show you the correct
way to do things. Ask for help.
 Your trainer will tell you about the important things you need to
consider when you are completing activities and it is important that
you listen and take notes.
 Talk to more experienced workmates and ask for their guidance.
 Use the self-check questions at the end of each section to test your
own progress.
 When you are ready, ask your trainer to watch you perform the
activities outlined in the module.
 As you work through the activities, ask for written feedback on
your progress. Your trainer gives feedback/pre-assessment reports
for this reason. When you have successfully completed each element
or learning outcome, ask your trainer to mark on the reports that you
are ready for assessment.
 When you have completed this module and feel confident that you
have had sufficient practice, your trainer will schedule you for the
institutional assessment. The result of your assessment/evaluation
will be recorded in your COMPETENCY ACHIEVEMENT RECORD.
NATIONAL CERTIFICATE II
COMPETENCY-BASED LEARNING MATERIALS
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Learning Guide
List of Competencies
No. Unit of Competency Module Title Code
Basic Competency
Participating in
Participate in workplace
1 workplace 50031105
communication
communication
Work in a team Working in a team
2 50031106
environment environment
Practice career Practicing career
3 50031107
professionalism professionalism
Practice occupational Practicing occupational
4 health and safety health and safety 50031108
procedures procedures
TABLE OF CONTENT
Page No.
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Competency-Based Learning Material.....ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
How To Use This Competency Based Learning Material....................................2
Direction For Use Of The CBLM........................................................................3
National Certificate II........................................................................................4
Table Of Content...............................................................................................5
Module Content................................................................................................7
Assessment Criteria:.........................................................................................7
Learning Outcome Summary............................................................................9
Learning Experiences......................................................................................10
Information Sheet 1.1-1..................................................................................11
Self-Check 1.1-1.............................................................................................15
Answer Key 1.1-1............................................................................................17
Self-Check 1.1-2.............................................................................................23
Answer Key 1.1-2............................................................................................25
Self-Check 1.1-3.............................................................................................32
Answer Key 1.1-3............................................................................................34
Learning Outcome Summary..........................................................................35
Self-Check 1.2-1.............................................................................................42
Answer Key 1.2-1............................................................................................44
Self-Check 1.2-2.............................................................................................48
Answer Key 1.2-2............................................................................................49
Learning Outcome Summary..........................................................................50
Self-Check 1.3-1.............................................................................................56
Answer Key 1.3-1............................................................................................58
Self-Check 1.3-2.............................................................................................64
Asnwer Key 1.3-2............................................................................................65
Definition Of Terms.........................................................................................66
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References......................................................................................................69
MODULE CONTENT
National Certificate :II
Unit of Competency: Participate in Workplace Communication
Module Title : Participating in Workplace Communication
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Module Descriptor : This module covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes
required to obtain, interpret and convey information
in response to workplace requirements.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of this module you MUST be able to:
1. Obtain and convey workplace information
2. Complete relevant work related documents
3. Participate in workplace meeting and discussion
Assessment Criteria:
1. Specific relevant information is accessed from appropriate sources.
2. Effective questioning, active listening and speaking skills are used to
gather and convey information
3. Appropriate medium is used to transfer information and ideas.
4. Appropriate non-verbal communication is used.
5. Appropriate lines of communication with superiors and colleagues are
identified
6. Defined workplace procedures for the location and storage of
information.
7. Personal interaction is carried out clearly and concisely.
8. Team meetings are attended on time.
9. Own opinions are clearly expressed and those of others are listened to
without interruption.
10. Meeting inputs are consistent with the meeting purpose and
established protocols.
11. Workplace interactions are conducted in a courteous manner
appropriate to cultural background and authority in the enterprise
procedures.
12. Questions about simple routine workplace procedures and matters
concerning conditions of employment are asked and responded.
13. Meeting outcomes are interpreted and implemented.
14. Ranges of forms relating to conditions of employment are
completed accurately and legibly.
15. Workplace data is recorded on standard workplace forms and
documents.
16. Basic mathematical processes are used routine calculations.
17. Errors in recording information on forms/documents are identified
and rectified.
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18. Reporting requirements to superior are completed according to
enterprise guidelines.
LEARNING OUTCOME SUMMARY

Learning Outcome No. 1
Obtain and Convey Workplace Information
Contents:
1. Parts of speech
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2. Sentence construction
3. Effective communication
1. Specific relevant information is accessed from appropriate sources.
2. Effective questioning, active listening and speaking skills are used to
gather and convey information
3. Appropriate medium is used to transfer information and ideas.
4. Appropriate non-verbal communication is used.
5. Appropriate lines of communication with superiors and colleagues are
identified
6. Defined workplace procedures for the location and storage of
information.
7. Personal interaction is carried out clearly and concisely.
Conditions:
Trainee must be provided with the following:
 Writing materials (pen & paper)
 Reference (books)
 Manuals
Methodologies:
 Group discussion
 Interaction
 Lecture
 Reportorial
Assessment Methods:
 Written Test
 Practical/Performance Test
 Interview
LEARNING EXPERIENCES
Learning Activities Specific Instructions
1. Read INFORMATION If you have some problem on the content of
SHEET1.1-1 on Parts of the information sheet don’t hesitate to
Speech. approach your facilitator.
If you feel that you are now knowledgeable on
the content of the information sheet, you can
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now answer self-check provided in the
module.
2. Answer SELF-CHECK 1.1-1 Compare answers with ANSWER KEY 1.1-1 on
on Parts of Speech. Parts of Speech.
SHEET 1.1-2 on Sentence the information sheet don’t hesitate to
Construction. approach your facilitator.
module.
4. Answer SELF-CHECK 1.1-2 Refer your answer to ANSWER KEY 1.1-2 on
on Sentence Construction. Sentence Construction.
5. Read Information Sheet If you have some problem on the content of
1.1-3 on Effective the information sheet don’t hesitate to
Communication. approach your facilitator.
module.
6. Answer SELF-CHECK 1.1-3 Refer your answer to ANSWER KEY 1.1-3 on
on Effective Effective Communication.
Communication.
INFORMATION SHEET 1.1-1

Parts of Speech
Learning Objectives:
After reading this INFORMATION SHEET, YOU MUST be able to:
1. Determine the Parts of Speech
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2. Identify the eight parts of speech
3. Define each of the eight part of the speech
4. Learn and apply each part of the speech in constructing a sentence.
The Parts Of Speech

There are thousands of words in any language. But not all words have
the same job. For example, some words express "action". Other words express a
"thing". Other words "join" one word to another word. These are the "building
blocks" of the language. Think of them like the parts of a house. When we want
to build a house, we use concrete to make the foundations or base. We use
bricks to make the walls. We use window frames to make the windows, and
door frames to make the doorways. And we use cement to join them all
together. Each part of the house has its own job. And when we want to build a
sentence, we use the different types of word. Each type of word has its own job.
What are the Parts of Speech?
“Parts of speech” are the basic types of words that English has. Most
grammar books say that there are eight parts of speech: nouns, verbs,
adjectives, adverbs, pronouns, conjunctions, prepositions and
interjections
The Noun
A noun is a word used to name a person, animal, place, thing, and
abstract idea. Nouns are usually the first words which small children learn.
The highlighted words in the following sentences are all nouns:
Late last year our neighbours bought a goat.
Portia White was an opera singer.
The bus inspector looked at all the passengers' passes.
According to Plutarch, the library at Alexandria was destroyed in 48
B.C.
Philosophy is of little comfort to the starving.
The Verb
A verb is a word which describes an action (doing something) or a state
(being something).
In each of the following sentences, the verb or compound verb is
highlighted:
Dracula bites his victims on the neck.
The farmer searches the woods for his cow.
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His automobile develops a motor trouble.
The Pronoun
A pronoun can replace a noun or another pronoun. You use pronouns
like "he," "which," "none," and "you" to make your sentences less cumbersome
and less repetitive.
In the following sentences, each of the highlighted words is a subjective
personal pronoun and acts as the subject of the sentence:
I was glad to find the bus pass in the bottom of the green knapsack.
You are surely the strangest child I have ever met.
He stole the selkie's skin and forced her to live with him.
When she was a young woman, she earned her living as a coal miner.
After many years, they returned to their homeland.
The Adjective
An adjective modifies a noun or a pronoun by describing, identifying, or
quantifying words. An adjective usually precedes the noun or the pronoun
which it modifies.
In the following examples, the highlighted words are adjectives:
The truck-shaped balloon floated over the treetops.
Mrs. Morrison papered her kitchen walls with hideous wall paper.
The small boat foundered on the wine dark sea.
The coal mines are dark and dank.
Many stores have already begun to play irritatingChristmas music.
A batteredmusic box sat on the mahogany sideboard.
The back room was filled with large, yellow rain boots.
The Adverb
An adverb can modify a verb, an adjective, another adverb, a phrase, or a
clause. An adverb indicates manner, time, place, cause, or degree and answers
questions such as "how," "when," "where," "how much".
While some adverbs can be identified by their characteristic "ly" suffix,
most of them must be identified by untangling the grammatical relationships
within the sentence or clause as a whole. Unlike an adjective, an adverb can be
found in various places within the sentence.
In the following examples, each of the highlighted words is an adverb:
The seamstress quickly made the mourning clothes.
The midwives waited patiently through a long labour.
The boldly spoken words would return to haunt the rebel.
We urged him to dial the number more expeditiously.
The Conjunction
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You can use a conjunction to link words, phrases, and clauses, as in the
following example:
I ate the pizza and the pasta.
Call the movers when you are ready.
The Preposition
A preposition links nouns, pronouns and phrases to other words in a
sentence. The word or phrase that the preposition introduces is called the
object of the preposition.
A preposition usually indicates the temporal, spatial or logical
relationship of its object to the rest of the sentence as in the following
examples:
The book is on the table.
The book is beneath the table.
The book is leaning against the table.
The book is beside the table.
She held the book over the table.
She read the book during class.
In each of the preceding sentences, a preposition locates the noun "book"

in space or in time.
The Interjection
An interjection is a word added to a sentence to convey emotion. It is
not grammatically related to any other part of the sentence.
You usually follow an interjection with an exclamation mark.
Interjections are uncommon in formal academic prose, except in direct
quotations.
The highlighted words in the following sentences are interjections:
Ouch, that hurt!
Oh no, I forgot that the exam was today.
Hey! Put that down!
I heard one guy say to another guy, "He has a new car, eh?"
I don't know about you but, good lord, I think taxes are too high!
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SELF-CHECK 1.1-1
Parts of Speech
A. Multiple Choices
Direction: Choose the correct answer from the choices given
1. It is the basic types of words that English has and consists of eight
parts.
a. noun
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b. parts of speech
c. conjunction
d. adverb
2. It is a word used in a place of a noun.
a. noun
b. verb
c. pronoun
d. conjunction
3. A part of speech which is added to a sentence to convey emotion.
a. interjection
b. noun
c. conjunction
d. verb
4. A part of speech that links nouns, pronouns and phrases to other
words in a sentence.
a. speech
b. interjection
c. preposition
d. verb
5. It usually precedes the noun or the pronoun which it modifies.
a. adjective
b. pronoun
c. adverb
d. verb
6. It usually indicates the temporal, spatial or logical relationship of its
object to the rest of the sentence.
a. preposition
b. adverb
c. interjection
d. noun
7. “He” and “she” are the common example of what part of speech?
a. noun
b. adjective
c. preposition
d. pronoun
8. It is a word which describes an action or a state of being.
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a. adverb
b. verb
c. noun
d. pronoun
9. It links words, phrases, and clauses.
a. adjective
b. preposition
c. interjection
d. conjunction
10. Is a word used to name a person, animal, place, thing, and abstract idea.
a. verb
b. adverb
c. noun
d. pronoun
ANSWER KEY 1.1-1

Parts of Speech
A. Multiple Choices
1. B
2. C
3. A
4. C
5. A
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6. A
7. D
8. B
9. D
10. C

Sentence Construction
1. differentiate what is a sentence.
2. determine the parts of a sentence.
3. identify what are a subject and a predicate.
4. determine what a sentence fragment is.
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5. identify what a run-on sentence is.
6. familiarize what the subject-verb agreements are.
7. write complete, grammatically correct sentences
The Sentence
A sentence is a group of words containing a verb and its subject and
expressing a completed thought.
A sentence always begins with a capital letter and ends with a mark of
punctuation.
In order to express a complete thought, every sentence must have two
parts – the subject and the predicate
A. The Subject
The subject of a sentence is that part about which something is said. In
the following sentences, the subjects are in heavy type.
1. The eager quarterback shouted the signals.
2. Ricky reminded me of the game tonight.
3. An old brick building hung over the river’s edge
To find the subject of a sentence, ask yourself Who…? or What…?
Suppose you want to find the subject of this sentence: The huge plane rolled
slowly out of the hangar onto the runway. Ask yourself, What rolled? The answer
is, The huge plane rolled. The plane is the subject of the sentence.
B. The Predicate
The predicate of a sentence is that part which says something about the
subject. In the following sentences, the predicates are in heavy type.
1. The tulips bloomed early this year.
2. Mr. McKay took a later train than usual.
3. Summer vacation is always too short.
That's it! A sentence is just someone or something being or doing
something. Simple, huh?
Sentence Fragments
A fragment is a sentence which is not complete, and therefore not
grammatically correct. Sentence fragments are problematic because they are
disjointed and confusing to the reader. There are three main causes of
fragments: (a) a missing subject; (b) a missing verb; (c) "danger" words which
are not finished.
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When you read a sentence fragment, you are left wondering whom or what
the sentence is about or what happened in the sentence.
You can change a sentence fragment into a complete sentence by adding
the missing information.
Sentence Fragment Sentence
in the butter My glasses fell in the butter!
early this morning I awoke early this morning.
running across the field I saw you running across the field
running across the field I saw you running across the field
Run-On Sentences
A run-on sentence is one which actually contains two (or more) complete
sentences without the proper punctuation to create separate sentences. There
are two common forms of the run-on: (1) the "comma splice" in which a comma
is inserted between two comp lete sentences where a period should actually be
used; (2) a lack of punctuation where a semi-colon or period is needed.
The Comma Splice
John is a musician, he plays the guitar for a living. - Incorrect Example
The sentence above is incorrectly joined by a comma, thus "splicing" two
complete sentences together into one run-on sentence. To correct these run-
on's, the comma should be replaced by a period, thus creating two separate
sentences, as shown below.
John is a musician. He plays the guitar for a living. - Correct Example
Lack of Punctuation
Incorrect Examples:
1. There is a problem with the television however no one is available to
fix it.
2. Nobody knows what really happened the policeman said there was a
fight.
In each of the examples above, some type of punctuation is needed to
separate the two parts of the sentence: either a semi-colon or a period.
Correct Examples
1. There is a problem with the television; however, no one is available to
fix it.
There is a problem with the television. However, no one is available to
fix it.
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2. Nobody knows what really happened; the policeman said there was a
fight.
Nobody knows what really happened. The policeman said there was a
fight.
Subject-Verb Agreement
In order for a sentence to be grammatically correct, the subject and verb
must both be singular or plural. In other words, the subject and verb must
agree with one another in their tense. If the subject is in plural form, the verb
should also be in plural form (and vice versa). To ensure subject-verb
agreement, identify the main subject and verb in the sentence, then check to
see if they are either plural or singular. Consider the examples below.
 Singular and Plural Number – when a word refers to one person,
place, thing or idea, it is singular in number. When it refers to more
than one, it is plural in number.
Singular Plural
woman women
hand hands
fireman firemen
lesson lessons
 The verb agrees with its subject in number. If the subject is singular,
the verb is singular. If the subject is plural, the verb is plural.
Singular Plural
she bakes they bake
it whistles they whistle
everyone sees all see
he is they are
 The number of a subject is not changed by a prepositional phrase
following the subject. The subject is never in a prepositional phrase. Be
certain to make the verb agree with the subject itself, not with the word
in the phrase.
Wrong The lamp near the windows are broken. [Since lamp
is the subject, the verb must agree with it, not with
the windows, which is part of the prepositional
phrase.
Right The lamp near the windows is broken.
 The following common pronouns are singular and take a singular
verb: anybody, anyone, each, either, everybody, neither, nobody, no
one, somebody, someone.
Examples:
1. Each of the pens costs a dollar
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2. Everyone in the two families likes to play ping-pong.
3. Neither of these paths is the trail.
 The following common pronouns are plural and take plural verbs:
both, few, many, several.
Examples:
1. Both of his trucks are disabled
2. Manyof the sailboatsare out today.
3. Severalof the playersrushto the mound.
 When the subject comes after the verb, as in interrogative sentences

and sentences beginning with here or there, be especially careful to
determine the subject and make sure that it agrees with the verb.
Examples:
1. Was the contest exciting?
2. Were the contests exciting?
3. Here is the book.
4. Here are the books.
 Compound subject joined by and are plural and take a plural verb.
Examples:
1. Fishingandlumbering are carried on in the Northwest.
2. Corn and beans growwell in one garden.
Exemption: If the items in a compound subject actually refer to
only one person or are thought of as one thing, the subject and the
verb are singular.
Examples:
1. The president and manager of the factory is on vacation.
2. Strawberries and cream costs thirty pesos.
 Singular subjects joined by or nor are singular and take a singular
verb.
Examples:
1. Monday or Tuesday is all right for the picnic.
2. Neither snow nor icy wind keeps the travellers indoors.
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SELF-CHECK 1.1-2
A. Multiple Choices
Direction: Choose the letter of the correct answer from the given choices.
Write your answer in a piece of Paper
1. It has two parts – the subject and the predicate.

a. Sentence
b. Run-on Sentence
c. Fragment
2. A part of a sentence which something is said about.
a. Run-on sentence
b. Subject
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c. Predicate
3. A part of a sentence which says something about the subject.
a. Run-on sentence
b. Subject
c. Predicate
4. It is a sentence which is not complete, and therefore not
grammatically correct.
a. Run-on sentence
b. Subject
c. Fragment
5. A sentence which actually contains two (or more) complete
sentences without the proper punctuation to create separate
sentences.
a. Subject
b. Run-on sentence
c. Fragment
B. Identification
Direction: Choose the correct verb that agrees with the subject in each
following sentences:
1. The keys to the car (are, is) on the table

2. Nobody in this houses (have, has) shovelled the sidewalks.
3. Everyone in the two clubs (are, is) ready to help
4. (Was, Were) those visitors from Batangas?
5. Neither the radio nor the television (seems, seem) to work.
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ANSWER KEY 1.1-2
A. Multiple Choices
1. A
2. B
3. C
4. C
5. B
B. Identification
1. are
2. has
3. is
4. were
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5. seems

Effective Communication
1. Explain the importance of communication.
2. Identify the various elements of communication
3. Determine the modes of communication.
4. Differentiate the various methods/skills of communication.
5. Identify the three main modes of communication.
6. Determine the barriers to communication.
7. Identify the benefits of effective communication and the consequences
in failing to communicate effectively.
Communication
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Is defined as the art of sending and receiving information. It is a process
of conveying messages, of transmitting meaning between individuals. It is an
exchange; for it to be effective, information must flow back and forth from
sender to the receiver. The former must have some knowledge of the latter’s
reaction. This process by which a system regulates itself by feeding to itself
parts of its outputs is called feedback.
Basic Elements of Communication:
The process of communication is composed of three elements:
1. the source (sender, speaker, transmitter, or instructor),
2. the symbols used in composing and transmitting the message (words
or signs), and;
3. the receiver (listener, reader, or student).
The three elements are dynamically interrelated since each element is
dependent on the others for effective communication to take place.
Effective Communication helps workers to:
 complete a schedule of tasks
 follow a set of instructions
 learn correct procedures and improve work practices
 solve problems
 work as part of a team
 follow the enterprise Occupational Health and Safety and
environmental procedures.
There are three main modes of communication:
1. Verbal communication
2. Non-verbal communication
3. Written communication
Verbal Communication
In industries a large proportion of communication is verbal or spoken.
This may occur face-to-face or via telephones or two-way radios. For verbal
communication to be effective both the speaker and the listener need to be
actively engaged in the conversation.
The speaker should be clear, concise, and courteous and use a style of
language that is appropriate to the situation and the audience. The information
should be accurate to the best of the speaker’s knowledge. The tone of voice
and body language used when speaking are often as important as the words
themselves.
The listener should give the speaker their full attention and be sure that
they clearly understand the message being conveyed. Again, body language is
very important. Good listening skills are necessary when receiving instruction
or being taught new procedures.
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Questions should be asked by the listener to clarify the meaning and by
the speaker to ensure that the information has been fully understood. There
are three types of questions:
1. Closed questions are used to obtain a particular piece of information.
They are usually answered with a yes or no or with a limited response.
For example:
 Have you driven a four-wheel drive tractor before?
2. Open questions encourage people to discuss a situation and share
information. They often require longer answers and begin with how,
where, when, which, who, why or what. For example:
 What types of tractors have you driven?
3. Reflective questions, also called mirror questions, are used to show
the speaker that you have been actively listening to them. They are
also helpful when encouraging a person to express their opinions
clearly. For example:
 So, you’ve driven this type of tractor before?
 You’ve found this type of tractor to run reliably, haven’t you?
Good speaking, listening and questioning skills are essential when
communicating via the telephone or two-way radios to ensure that the correct
information has been received.
There are a number of barriers that reduce the effectiveness of verbal
communication. These include:
 inappropriate choice of language style
 inappropriate body language
 disruptions
 noise in the proximity and/or a poor signal
 relevance of the topic to the listener
 Assumptions made by both the speaker and listener.
Non-verbal communication
A significant aspect of face-to-face communication is non-verbal body
language. This includes body posture, arm and hand positions, facial
expressions, and eye-contact and hand gestures. Sometimes a conflicting
message may be given because the words spoken do not match a speaker’s
body language.
Good observation skills are needed to ‘read’ what is really being
communicated. Being aware of cues and signals is a crucial skill in
understanding people’s attitudes.
Personal presentation, dress and hygiene also contribute to the
impression a person makes when they are communicating.
Other forms of non-verbal communication regularly found in the
workplace include:
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 Signals, for example hand signals used when operating machinery; traffic
lights.
 Signs, for example safety signs; workplace warnings; men’s, ladies and
disabled toilets; first aid posts.
 Diagrams, for example property maps; diagrams in machinery manuals.
 Symbols, for example poison schedules; map legends; machinery gears
and levers.
Basic Communication Skills
The four basic methods of communication in everyday life are: listening,
speaking, reading and writing.
Effective Listening and Speaking
In today’s changing world, listening and speaking play significant roles
because the first contact between ourselves and others is established through
this two-way process.
Listening and hearing are not the same. Hearing is simply the travel of
sound through the ears to the brain without effort for the listeners; listening
involves a reaction of the brain to the sounds waves. Another way of expressing
this difference is to say that listening has a purpose. Different purposes in
listening imply different kinds of listening.
Among the linguistic skills, speaking developed alongside listening.
Learning to speak well is an asset. Since most of us talk much more than we
write, we are judged more than by our speech than by our writing.
Reading
A third communication skill after listening and speaking is reading.
People read for many different reasons and in many different ways. One reason
for reading is to find specific information, which is called scanning. Another, is
for meaning and absorption of information or which is called active reading.
Writing
Writing tends to be more formal than speaking. Writing can be group into
three kinds according to style: formal, informal-public, and casual.
 Formal style is used for writing letters to the government officials,
speeches, articles for newsletter and magazines, school assignments,
long reports and formal compositions.
 Informal-public style is used in public communication, not private
communication; we use it when we want to sound informal, not formal.
 Casual style is used in writing to friends, to classmates, and in jotting
down notes to family members.
Barriers to Effective Communication
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Recognizing the various barriers to communication further enhances the
flow of ideas between an instructor and the student. The instructor must
develop communication skills in order to convey desired information to the
students and must recognize that communication is a two-way process. In the
end, the true test of whether successful communication has taken place is to
determine if the desired results have been achieved.
 Lack of common experience. Many people seem to believe that
words transport meanings from speaker to listener in the same way
that a truck carries bricks from one location to another. A
communicator's words cannot communicate the desired meaning to
another person unless the listener or reader has had some experience
with the objects or concepts to which these words refer.
 Confusion between the Symbol and the Symbolized Object.
Languages abound with words that mean different things to different
people. Confusion between the symbol and the symbolized object
results when a word is confused with what it is meant to represent.
Although it is obvious that words and the connotations they carry can
be different, people sometimes fail to make the distinction. Words and
symbols do not always represent the same thing to every person.
 Overuse of Abstractions. Abstractions are words that are general
rather than specific. Concrete words or terms refer to objects that
people can relate directly to their experiences. They specify an idea
that can be perceived or a thing that can be visualized. Abstract
words, on the other hand, stand for ideas that cannot be directly
experienced, things that do not call forth mental images in the minds
of the students.
 Interference. Barriers to effective
communication are usually under
the direct control of the
sender/encoder. However,
interference is made up of factors
that are outside the direct control
of the sender/encoder:
physiological, environmental, and
psychological interference. To
communicate effectively, the sender
should consider the effects of these
factors.
Psychological interference is any biological problem that may inhibit

symbol reception, such as hearing loss, injury or physical illness. These, and
other physiological factors, can inhibit communication because the student is
not comfortable.
Environmental interference is caused by external physical conditions.
One example of this is the noise level found in many light aircraft. Noise not
only impairs the communication process, but also can result in long- term
damage to hearing.
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Psychological interference is a product of how the sender and the
receiver feel at the time the communication process is occurring. If either
sender or receiver is not committed to the communication process,
communication is impaired. Fear of the situation or mistrust between the
sender and receiver could severely inhibit the flow of information.
Communication Systems
 Downward communication. Communication flows from the superiors
to its subordinates.
 Upward communication. The communication flows from the
subordinates to its superiors.
 Lateral communication. Communication flows from functional areas
at a given level of the organization or hospital.
 Diagonal communication. The communication flows from a
subordinate of a certain level to the superior of another level and vice
versa.
 Grapevine. It stretches throughout the organization in all directions
irrespective of authority.
Benefits of effective communication:
 Rewarding and harmonious relationships with others
 Easily build rapport with clients, customers, friends, new
acquaintances
 Getting what you want
 More time for yourself and others
 Satisfaction and success in life
Failing to communicate effectively:
It is often our failure to communicate effectively that leads to:
 Professional setbacks
 Personal disappointment
 Breakdown of important relationships
 Wasting energy and time on frustration and dramas
 Not reaching our full potential
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SELF-CHECK 1.1-3
A. Multiple Choices
Direction: Choose the letter of the correct answer from the given
choices. Write your answer on the space provided before each number.
__________1. It is a process of conveying messages, of transmitting meaning

between individuals.
a. Communication
b. Listening
c. Reading
__________2. A style of writing which is used for writing letters to the
government officials, speeches, articles for newsletter and
magazines, school assignments, long reports and formal
compositions.
a. Informal-public style
b. Formal style
c. Casual style
__________3. A style of writing which is used in writing to friends, to
classmates, and in jotting down notes to family members.
a. Informal-public style
b. Formal style
c. Casual style
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__________4. A factor of Interference which is a biological problem that may
inhibit symbol reception, such as hearing loss, injury or physical
illness.
a. Psychological interference
b. Environmental interference
c. Psychological interference
__________5. factor of Interference in which is a product of how the sender
and the receiver feel at the time the communication process is
occurring. If either sender or receiver is not committed to the
communication process, communication is impaired.
a. Psychological interference
b. Environmental interference
c. Psychological interference
__________6. When a communicator's words cannot communicate the desired
meaning to another person unless the listener or reader has had
some experience with the objects or concepts to which these words
refer. What factor of barrier to communication is this?
a. Lack of common experience
b. Overuse of Abstractions
c. Interference
__________7. A barrier to communication which also made up of factors that
are outside the direct control of the sender/encoder such as;
physiological, environmental, and psychological.
a. Lack of common experience
b. Overuse of Abstractions
c. Interference
__________8. A basic method of communication which tends to be more
formal than speaking.
a. Listening
b. Writing
c. Reading
__________9. Simply refers to the travel of sound through the ears to the
brain without effort for the listeners.
a. Hearing
b. Listening
c. Reading
__________10. Which of the choices below is considered a benefit of effective
communication?
a. Satisfaction and success in life
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b. Personal disappointment
c. Wasting energy and time on frustration and dramas
ANSWER KEY1.1-3
A. Multiple Choices
1. A
2. B
3. C
4. A
5. C
6. A
7. C
8. B
9. A
10. A
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Participate in Workplace Meetings and Discussions
Contents:
1. Technical Writing
2. Recording information
1. Team meetings are attended on time.
2. Own opinions are clearly expressed and those of others are listened to
without interruption.
3. Meeting inputs are consistent with the meeting purpose and
established protocols.
4. Workplace interactions are conducted in a courteous manner
appropriate to cultural background and authority in the enterprise
procedures.
5. Questions about simple routine workplace procedures and matters
concerning conditions of employment are asked and responded.
6. Meeting outcomes are interpreted and implemented.
Conditions:
 Paper
 Pencils/Ball pen
 References (books)
 Manuals
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Methodologies:
 Group Discussion
 Interaction
 Lecture
Assessment Methods:
 Written Test
 Practical/performance test
 Interview
Learning Activities Special Instructions

SHEET 1.2-1 on Technical the information sheet don’t hesitate to
Writing. approach your facilitator.
If you feel that you are now knowledgeable
on the content of the information sheet,
you can now answer self-check provided in
the module.
2. Answer SELF-CHECK 1.2-1 Refer your answer to ANSWER KEY 1.2-1
on Technical Writing. on Technical Writing.

SHEET 1.2-2 on Recording the information sheet don’t hesitate to
Information. approach your facilitator.
on the content of the information sheet,
you can now answer self-check provided in
the module.
on Recording Information. on Recording Information
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Technical Writing
1. determine what technical writing is.
2. identify the various types of technical report.
3. identify the characteristics of technical reports.
4. determine the note-taking process.
5. identify the rules for numbers.
Technical Communications
Technical communications—or technical writing, as the course is often
called—is not writing about a specific technical topic such as computers, but
about any technical topic. The term "technical" refers to knowledge that is not
widespread, that is more the territory of experts and specialists. Whatever your
major is, you are developing an expertise—you are becoming a specialist in a
particular technical area. And whenever you try to write or say anything about
your field, you are engaged in technical communications.
Another key part of the definition of technical communications is the
receiver of the information—the audience. Technical communications is the
delivery of technical information to readers (or listeners or viewers) in a manner
that is adapted to their needs, level of understanding, and background. In fact,
this audience element is so important that it is one of the cornerstones of this
course: you are challenged to write about highly technical subjects but in a way
that a beginner—a nonspecialist—could understand. This ability to "translate"
technical information to nonspecialists is a key skill to any technical
communicator. In a world of rapid technological development, people are
constantly falling behind and becoming technological illiterates. Technology
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companies are constantly struggling to find effective ways to help customers or
potential customers understand the advantages or the operation of their new
products.
Technical-Writing
Technical-writing introduce you to some of the most important aspects of
writing in the world of science, technology, and business—in other words, the
kind of writing that scientists, nurses, doctors, computer specialists,
government officials, engineers, and other such people do as a part of their
regular work.
To learn how to write effectively for the world of work, you'll study
common types of reports, special format items such as lists and headings,
simple techniques for putting graphics into reports, and some techniques for
producing professional-looking final copy.
No matter what sort of professional work you do, you're likely to do lots of
writing—and much of it technical in nature. The more you know about some
basic technical-writing skills, which are covered in this guide and in technical-
writing courses, the better job of writing you're likely to do. And that will be
good for the projects you work on, for the organizations you work in, and—most
of all—good for you and your career.
Types of Technical Reports
Technical-background report. The background report is the hardest to
define but the most commonly written. This type of technical report provides
background on a topic—for example, solar energy, global warming, CD-ROM
technology, a medical problem, or U.S. recycling activity. However, the
information on the topic is not just for anybody who might be interested in the
topic, but for some individual or group that has specific needs for it and is even
willing to pay for that information.
Instructions. These are probably the most familiar of all the types of
reports. Students often write backup procedures for the jobs they do at their
work. Others write short user manuals for an appliance, equipment, or
program. If there is too much to write about, they write about some smaller
segment—for example, instead of instructions on using all of WordPerfect, just
a guide on writing macros in WordPerfect.
Feasibility, recommendation, and evaluation reports. Another useful
type of report is one that studies a problem or opportunity and then makes a
recommendation. A feasibility report tells whether a project is "feasible"—that
is, whether it is practical and technologically possible. A recommendation report
compares two or more alternatives and recommends one (or, if necessary,
none). An evaluation or assessment report studies something in terms of its
worth or value.
Primary research report. Primary research refers to the actual work
someone does in a laboratory or in the field—in other words, experiments and
surveys. You may have written a "lab report," as they are commonly called, for
one of your previous courses. This is a perfectly good possibility for the
technical report as well. In this type of report, you not only present your data
and draw conclusions about it, but also explain your methodology, describe the
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equipment and facilities you used, and give some background on the problem.
You can modify this type by summarizing other primary research reports.
Technical specifications. In this report type, you discuss some new
product design in terms of its construction, materials, functions, features,
operation, and market potential. True specifications are not much on writing—
the text is dense, fragmented; tables, lists, and graphics replace regular
sentences and paragraphs whenever possible. Thus, specifications are not a
good exercise of your writing abilities. However, you can write a more high-level
version—one that might be read by marketing and planning executives.
Report-length proposal. As you may be aware, proposals can be
monster documents of hundreds or even thousands of pages. (Please, not this
semester.) Most of the elements are the same, just bigger. Plus elements from
other kinds of reports get imported—such as feasibility discussion, review of
literature, and qualifications; these become much more elaborate.
Business plans. If you are ambitious to run your own business, you can
write a business plan, which is a plan or proposal to start a new business or to
expand an existing one. It is aimed primarily at potential investors. Therefore, it
describes the proposed business, explores the marketplace and the
competition, projects revenues, and describes the operation and output of the
proposed business.
General Characteristics of Technical Reports
Here is a brief review of some of the chief characteristics of the technical
report:
Graphics: The report should have graphics. Graphics include all kinds of
possibilities. If you can't think of any graphics for your report project, you may
not have a good topic.
Factual detail: The report should be very detailed and factual. The point
of the report is to go into details, the kind of details your specific audience
needs.
Information sources: Your report should make use of information
sources. These may include not only books and articles that can be found in
libraries but also technical brochures, interviews or correspondence with
experts, as well as first-hand inspections. If you don't believe any information
sources are necessary for your report project, contact your instructor.
Documentation: When you use borrowed information in your technical
report, be sure to cite your sources. One style commonly used in science and
engineering is called the number system.
Realistic audience and situation: The report must be defined for a real
or realistic group of readers who exist in a real or realistic situation. Most
students invent an audience and situation. And the audience can't merely be
something like "anybody who might be interested in global warming." Instead, it
has to be real, realistic, and specific.
Headings and lists: The report should use the format for headings that
is required for the course, as well as various kinds of lists as appropriate.
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Special format: The technical report uses a rather involved format
including covers, binding, title page, table of contents, list of figures,
transmittal letter, and appendixes.
Production: The technical report should be typed or printed out neatly. If
graphics are taped in, the whole report must be photocopied, and the
photocopy handed in (not the original with the taped-in graphics). The report
must be bound in some way.
Length: The report should be at least 8 double-spaced typed or printed
pages (using 1-inch margins), counting from introduction to conclusion. This is
a minimum; a report of this length is rather skimpy. There is no real maximum
length, other than what your time, energy, and stamina can handle. But
remember that sheer weight does not equal quality (or better grade). If you get
into a bind with a report project that would take too many pages, contact your
instructor—there are numerous tricks we can use to cut it down to size.
Technical content: You must design your report project in such a way
that your poor technical-writing instructor has a chance to understand it—in
other words, you must write for the non-specialist. Also, at some point, you
may get concerned about the technical accuracy of your information.
Traditional note-taking process
In the traditional system of taking notes for a long report, you:
1. Develop a rough outline.
2. Do any preliminary reading necessary to construct a rough outline.
3. Locate your information sources, and make bibliography cards for
each source.
4. Take the actual notes on index cards.
5. Label each note card according to its place in the outline.
6. Provide bibliographic information on each note card.
7. Change or add extra detail to the outline as the note-taking process
continues.
8. Check off the areas of the outline for which sufficient notes have been
taken.
When you have taken sufficient notes to cover all parts of an outline, you
transcribe the information from the note cards into a rough draft, filling in
details, adding transitions, and providing your own acquired understanding of
the subject as you write. Naturally, you may discover gaps in your notes and
have to go back and take more notes.
How to Take Notes at a Meeting
Taking notes at a meeting is a completely different task than taking
minutes at a meeting. When taking notes, one is not focusing on a general
outline of decisions that were made or topics covered. Rather, the notes should
serve as a comprehensive listing of the details of the meeting and the ideas and
topics covered.
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There are a number of ways to effectively take notes at a meeting.
Choosing one should depend entirely on the method that is best suited to
enhancing the memory and understanding of the note taker.
Comprehensive notes: For a person who is more comfortable knowing,
and recording, every single detail, it is best to write everything that is said.
While this would be difficult or impossible for some, for others it is simply the
only way to be sure the information they collect is accurate.
Mind mapping: This graphical approach is an excellent option for people
who do not want, or who don't feel able, to accumulate such detailed
information. To create a mind map, it is best to obtain a copy of the agenda
prior to the meeting. Then list any topics of the meeting on the center of a piece
of paper.
Noting on the agenda: One of the easiest ways to take notes is on the
physical agenda itself because the agenda already has the main points listed.
Any information that could be used at a later date could be added next to the
point on the agenda where it was discussed.
Technology helpers: For people who are able to type quickly, taking a
laptop to a meeting is an effective way to take and organize notes. Notes can be
typed directly into a word processing program and edited as the meeting is
being held.
Rules for Numbers in Technical Writing
Technical writing often is filled with equations, measurements, quantities
and other numeric data. The format for presenting the numeric data is
ultimately determined by the assumed audience for the writing and their
expectations. In general, the key to determining an appropriate form for a
written number is the simple requirement that the meaning of the number
must always be unambiguous.
Spelling out Numbers. Usually, numbers nine and under are written out
as words, while numbers greater than that are written in numeric form. This
requirement applies to ordinal numbers such as first, second and ninth. When
numbers above 21 are written out, they are written as hyphenated words.
Fractions such as one-third are hyphenated as well.
Measurements or Calculations Always use numerals to express
measurements or calculation. Write 8 inches x 10 inches rather than eight
inches by ten inches. The audience or style guide will determine the
appropriate use of abbreviations to match with numeric value. In the preceding
example, inches was spelled out, but for many audiences the abbreviation in.
would be appropriate. Equations are always expressed in numerals with the
proper operator symbols. Write 2 + 2 = 4, not two plus two equals four. Decimal
and percentage values always use numerals.
Sentence Structure Do not begin a sentence with a numeral, regardless
of the other formatting rules. Never write “33 dolphins were tested.” Write out
the number; “Thirty-three dolphins were tested.” When a noun comes before
the number, capitalize it. “Dolphin 9” but not “the ninth dolphin.”
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Plural Numbers A common mistake occurs when creating the plural form
of a number, but the rules that apply are simple. The plural form of numbers
less than 10 are formed by adding an apostrophe and an "s." Numbers that are
10 and greater are written by appending the "s" alone. Write “count by 2’s” and
“in the 1970s”.
SELF-CHECK 1.2-1
Technical Writing
A. Multiple Choices
1. Is the type of report which is the hardest to define but the most
commonly written?
a. Technical-background report
b. Instructions
c. Technical specifications
2. In this type of report, you discuss some new product design in
terms of its construction, materials, functions, features, operation,
and market potential.
a. Report-length proposal
b. Primary research report
c. Technical specifications
3. It refers to the actual work someone does in a laboratory or in the
field—in other words, experiments and surveys.
a. Technical specifications
b. Primary research report.
c. Report-length proposal
4. A way of taking notes that suite for a person, who is more
comfortable knowing, and recording, every single detail.
a. Comprehensive notes
b. Noting on the agenda
c. Technology helpers
5.This graphical approach is an excellent option for people who do
not want, or who don't feel able, to accumulate such detailed
information.
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a. Comprehensive notes
b. Noting on the agenda
c. Mind mapping
6. A rule in technical writing which numbers nine and under are
usually written out as words, while numbers greater than that are
written in numeric form.
a. Sentence Structure
b. Spelling out Numbers
c. Measurements or Calculations
7. A rule in technical writing which states that measurements or
calculations should be used to express.
a. Spelling out Numbers
b. Measurements or Calculations
c. Plural Numbers
8. A characteristic of a technical report in which it should be very
detailed and factual.
a. Graphics
b. Documentation
c. Factual detail
9. A characteristic of a technical report which it should be typed or
printed out neatly.
a. Production
b. Technical content
c. Length
10. A characteristic of a technical report in which a report must be
defined for a real or realistic group of readers who exist in a real or
realistic situation.
a. Headings and lists:
b. Special format:
c. Realistic audience and situation
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ANSWER KEY1.2-1
Technical Writing
A. Multiple Choices.
1. a
2. c
3. b
4. a
5. c
6. b
7. b
8. c
9. a
10. c
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Recording Information
1. Determine the importance of recording information.
2. Identify the technology used in communication systems.
3. Identify the various code of behaviour that all participants should
adhere to in meetings.
Communication Technology
All businesses have a need for effective communication, both between
personnel within the workplace and with individuals and other businesses
outside the workplace. Each workplace will have a communication system
designed to meet its particular needs. Some of these needs include:
 obtaining, recording and reporting information
 enhancing effective training
 providing a safe workplace
 Improving the efficiency and effectiveness of work practices.
Communication systems use technology such as:
 telephones, including landlines, mobile and satellite phones
 answering machines
 facsimile (fax) machines
 computers with email and internet access
 two-way radios
 Paging systems.
Most workplaces have procedures and protocols in place for the use of
each type of technology. Workers should familiarize themselves with the system
features and control functions and operate each device according to the
manufacturer’s instructions. If not sure of the operating procedure for a
particular communication device, a worker should ask for assistance.
Some systems, such as telephones, answering machines and two-way
radios rely solely on speech. Effective communication is more difficult as the
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parties communicating are not able to see each other and gauge the progress of
the conversation from body language. It is important to speak clearly, concisely
and courteously especially when answering the phone or leaving a message.
The correct greeting and identification of the business and the individual
should be used.
Private conversations and text messaging on mobile phones should be
minimized during work hours. Only essential calls should be made or received.
Designated channels and call signs should be used with two-way radios.
Conversations should be limited to relaying necessary information. Batteries
should be recharged on a regular basis and the radios kept in good working
order. They may be a vital means of communication in an emergency.
Enterprise procedures and protocols should also be followed when using
systems that rely on written communication such as faxes and emails. Many
businesses have a standard cover sheet that is attached to the front of outgoing
faxes. Incoming faxes should be given to the appropriate person or placed in
designated in-trays or pigeon holes.
Information in faxes and emails should be written clearly and concisely.
A standard ‘signature’ should be attached to the end of an email. Again, work
computers should not be used to send private emails.
Bottom of Form
Workplace meetings
The efficient operation of all workplaces relies on the effective sharing of
information. This exchange of information may be needed to:
 explain changes happening in the workplace
 discuss and solve problems and make decisions
 update Occupational, Health and Safety (OH&S) and other procedures
 determine workplace targets
 schedule and allocate tasks
 provide feedback and evaluation.
Information can be shared in a number of ways. Written information
might be distributed via the intranet, email or in newsletters, memos and
notices. Formal meetings, informal discussions and work team briefings are
commonly used to share information in a face-to-face setting. Meetings might
be convened for a specific purpose, such as OH&S or union meetings, or they
may be more general in their purpose.
All meetings must be structured to achieve their purpose and conclude in
a reasonable time frame. An agenda may be used to outline the purpose of a
meeting and the important points that need to be raised and discussed.
Formal meetings use an agenda which generally includes the following
items:
 opening, welcome, and names recorded of those present and names of
apologies received
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 dated minutes and business arising from the previous meeting,
including the acceptance of these minutes
 correspondence, both in and out, with business arising
 reports from the finance and other subcommittees
 general and other business
 date, time and place of the next meeting and the close of the current
meeting.
Minutes are detailed notes taken during a meeting of everything that has
been said and agreed upon. In some meetings a vote may be taken on
important issues, either by a show of hands or a secret ballot. The minutes
should record the outcomes of voting and any decisions made.
Informal meetings, discussions and briefings are less rigid in their
structure. However, it is still important to provide opportunities for discussion
and take notes of decisions.
Whatever the style of the meeting there is a protocol or code of behaviour
that all participants should adhere to:
1. Attend the meeting on time.
2. Listen effectively.
3. Don’t interrupt other speakers.
4. Contribute to the meeting by expressing opinions in an appropriate
manner.
5. Behave courteously towards other participants in the meeting.
6. Don’t discuss issues that are outside the purpose of the meeting.
7. Ask questions to clarify misunderstandings.
8. Take notes where appropriate of decisions agreed to in the meeting
and retain these for future reference.
9. Act on the instructions or decisions of the meeting within the agreed
time.
10. Keep sensitive issues raised at the meeting confidential.
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SELF-CHECK 1.2-2
A. Matching Type
Direction: Match the Choices of column A to the choices in column B.
A B
1. computers with email and a) code of behavior in workplace

internet access meetings
2. Improving the efficiency and b) items used in Formal meetings

effectiveness of work practices.
c) efficient operation of all

3. discuss and solve problems and workplaces
make decisions
d) Need that a communication

4. date, time and place of the next system designed must meet
meeting and the close of the
current meeting.
e) Technology used in
communication systems
5. Act on the instructions or
decisions of the meeting within
the agreed time.
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ANSWER KEY 1.2-2
A. Matching Type.
1. e
2. d
3. c
4. b
5. a
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Complete Relevant Work – Related Documents
Contents:
 Basic mathematics
 Types of forms
1. Ranges of forms relating to conditions of employment are completed
accurately and legibly.
2. Workplace data is recorded on standard workplace forms and
documents.
3. Basic mathematical processes are used routine calculations.
4. Errors in recording information on forms/documents are identified
and rectified.
5. Reporting requirements to superior are completed according to
enterprise guidelines.
Conditions:
 Paper
 Pencils/ball pen
 Reference books
 Manuals
Methodologies:
 Group Discussion
 Interaction
 Lecture
Assessment Methods:
 Written Test
 Practical/Performance Test
 Interview
BCAT Document No.:

Learning Guide
Learning Activities Special Instructions
1. Read INFORMATION SHEET If you have some problem on the content of

1.3-1 on Basic the information sheet don’t hesitate to
Mathematics. approach your facilitator.
on the content of the information sheet, you
can now answer self-check provided in the
module.
on Basic Mathematics. on Basic Mathematics.
3. Read INFORMATION SHEET If you have some problem on the content of
1.3-2 on Types of Forms. the information sheet don’t hesitate to
approach your facilitator.
on the content of the information sheet, you
can now answer self-check provided in the
module.
on Types of Forms. on Types of Forms.
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Learning Guide
Basic Mathematics
1. Define what mathematics is.
2. Identify the different arithmetic operations.
3. Perform basic mathematical problems.
Mathematics
It is the systematic study of magnitude, quantities, and their
relationships as expressed symbolically in the form of numerals and forms.
Comparison of mathematics in the workplace with mathematics in the
classroom reveals a disjuncture that is disconcerting to anyone who believes
that a primary purpose of school is to prepare students for work. School
mathematics lives in decontextualized ether, employing data that are without
blemish and language that is devoid of ambiguity. In contrast, real problems
are embedded in concrete tasks, use data that are often ill-defined or
inaccurate, and rely on language that is often imprecise and misleading. In the
world of work, mathematics is collaborative rather than individualistic;
accuracy is defined by the situation rather than given by the textbook; and
mathematical processes are used rather than studied. The new challenge is to
seek common ground among these very different traditions--of mathematics for
and from the workplace and of mathematics as preparation for further study.
One resolution of the dilemma of tracking would be a common
mathematics program that could serve equally well as preparation both for
college and for skilled work. All students could benefit from the broadening
effects of such a high school preparation, yet there are currently few good
models of curricula that serve both agendas. Another approach would be to
develop a new form of vocational and technical education, with status equal to
the academic track that would simultaneously prepare students for the world of
work and for further study in post-secondary institutions. U.S. educators who
are concerned about vocational education debate both the desirability and
feasibility of such a "separate but equal" track.
Arithmetic
Arithmetic or arithmetics (from the Greek word ἀριθμός = number) is the
oldest and most elementary branch of mathematics, used by almost everyone,
for tasks ranging from simple day-to-day counting to advanced science and
business calculations. It involves the study of quantity, especially as the result
of combining numbers.
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Arithmetic operations
The basic arithmetic operations are addition, subtraction, multiplication
and division. Any set of objects upon which all four arithmetic operations
(except division by zero) can be performed, and where these four operations
obey the usual laws, is called a field.
Addition (+)
Addition is the basic operation of arithmetic. In its simplest form,
addition combines two numbers, the addends or terms, into a single number,
the sum of the numbers.
1+3=4
Adding more than two numbers can be viewed as repeated addition; this
procedure is known as summation and includes ways to add infinitely many
numbers in an infinite series; repeated addition of the number one is the most
basic form of counting.
Subtraction (−)
Subtraction is the opposite of addition. Subtraction finds the difference
between two numbers, the minuend minus the subtrahend. If the minuend is
larger than the subtrahend, the difference is positive; if the minuend is smaller
than the subtrahend, the difference is negative; if they are equal, the difference
is zero.
17 – 9 = 6
Subtraction is neither commutative nor associative. For that reason, it is
often helpful to look at subtraction as addition of the minuend and the opposite
of the subtrahend, that is a − b = a + (−b). When written as a sum, all the
properties of addition hold.
Multiplication (× or ·)
Multiplication is the second basic operation of arithmetic. Multiplication
also combines two numbers into a single number, the product. The two original
numbers are called the multiplier and the multiplicand, sometimes both simply
called factors.
4 × 4 = 16
Multiplication is best viewed as a scaling operation. If the real numbers
are imagined as lying in a line, multiplication by a number, say x, greater than
1 is the same as stretching everything away from zero uniformly, in such a way
that the number 1 itself is stretched to where x was. Similarly, multiplying by a
number less than 1 can be imagined as squeezing towards zero. (Again, in such
a way that 1 goes to the multiplicand.)
Multiplication is commutative and associative; further it is distributive over
addition and subtraction. The multiplicative identity is 1, that is, multiplying
any number by 1 yields that same number. Also, the multiplicative inverse is
the reciprocal of any number (except zero; zero is the only number without a
multiplicative inverse), that is, multiplying the reciprocal of any number by the
number itself yields the multiplicative identity.
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The product of a and b is written as a × b or a • b. When a or b are
expressions not written simply with digits, it is also written by simple
juxtaposition: ab. In computer programming languages and software packages
in which one can only use characters normally found on a keyboard, it is often
written with an asterisk: a * b.
Division (÷ or /)
Division is essentially the opposite of multiplication. Division finds the
quotient of two numbers, the dividend divided by the divisor. Any dividend
divided by zero is undefined. For positive numbers, if the dividend is larger
than the divisor, the quotient is greater than one, otherwise it is less than one
(a similar rule applies for negative numbers). The quotient multiplied by the
divisor always yields the dividend.
Division is neither commutative nor associative. As it is helpful to look at
subtraction as addition, it is helpful to look at division as multiplication of the
dividend times the reciprocal of the divisor, that is a ÷ b = a × 1/b. When written
as a product, it obeys all the properties of multiplication.
Rounding
When we round decimals to a certain number of decimal places we are
replacing the figure we have with the one that is closest to it with that number
of decimal places.
An example: Round 1.25687 to 2 decimal places
1. Firstly look at the decimal place after the one you want to round to (in
our example this would be the third decimal place)
2. If the number in the next decimal place is a 6,7,8 or 9, then you will
be rounding up, so you add 1 to the number in the place you are
interested in and you have rounded. In our example the number in
the third place is a 6 so we round up. We change the 5 in the second
place to a 6 and our rounded number is 1.26
3. If the number in the place after the one we are interested in is a
0,1,2,3 or 4 we round down, i.e. we just write the number out as it is
to the required number of places.
4. If the number in the place after the one we are interested in is a 5,
then we need to look at what follows it. Cover the number from the
beginning to the place you are interested in, for example, suppose we
are rounding 2.47568 to three decimal places we look at just the 568
and we ask is that closer to 500 or600. Since it’s closer to 600 we get
a rounded number of 2.476
5. If only a 5 follows the place we are interested in then different
disciplines have different conventions for the rounding. You can either
round up or down since 5 is exactly half way between 0 and 10.
Percentages
Percentages are fractions with a denominator of 100. Often there will not
be 100 things or 100 people out of which to express a fraction or a percentage.
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When this is the case you will need to find an equivalent fraction out of 100 by
multiplying by 100% which is the same as multiplying by 1.
SELF-CHECK 1.3-1
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Learning Guide
Basic Mathematics
A. Multiple Choices
Write your answer on the space provided before each number.
________1. It is the systematic study of magnitude, quantities, and their

relationships as expressed symbolically in the form of
numerals and forms.
a. Arithmetic
b. Mathematics
c. Subtraction
________2. It is the oldest and most elementary branch of mathematics,
used by almost everyone, for tasks ranging from simple day-to-
day counting to advanced science and business calculations.
a. Arithmetic
b. Mathematics
c. Subtraction
________3. Is a fraction with a denominator of 100?
a. Arithmetic
b. Mathematics
c. Percentage
________4. It is essentially the opposite of multiplication. It finds the
quotient of two numbers, the dividend divided by the divisor.
a. Addition
b. Division
c. Subtraction
________5. It is the second basic operation of arithmetic. It also combines
two numbers into a single number, which is called the
product.
a. Multiplication
b. Division
c. Subtraction
________6. It is the opposite of addition. It finds the difference between

two numbers, the minuend minus the subtrahend.
a. Multiplication
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b. Division
c. Subtraction
________7. It is the basic operation of arithmetic. It combines two
numbers, the addends or terms, into a single number, the sum
of the numbers.
a. Multiplication
b. Addition
c. Subtraction
________8. 2,462 is the sum of?
a. 1,021 + 1,441
b. 1,022 + 1,442
c. 1,021 + 1,442
________9. Round 19,574 to the nearest ten.
a. 19, 580
b. 19, 570
c. 19, 560
________10. Round 29, 574 to the nearest thousand.
a. 29,000
b. 30,000
c. 29,500
ANSWER KEY 1.3-1

Basic Mathematics
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A. Multiple Choices
1. b
2. a
3. c
4. b
5. a
6. c
7. b
8. a
9. b
10. b

Types of Forms
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1. determine what a written communication is.
2. identify the characteristics of workplace information
3. identify the different types of information kept by agricultural and
horticultural workplaces.
Written Communication
Companies/ enterprises often require workers to use written forms of
communication. This may involve reading workplace notices and instruction
such as:
 signs and labels
 notes, messages and memos
 rosters and work schedules
 safety material and notices
 invoices and dockets with customer information
 tables and simple graphs.
Employees may also be required to write down information, messages
and material and tool requirements. They will need to fill out a variety of
workplace forms.
To be effective, written workplace information must be:
1. Clear – the handwriting must be legible and the information written in a
manner that will not be confusing.
2. Concise – the message should be written in simple language using short
sentences or point form. Unnecessary information and repetition should be
avoided.
3. Correct – accuracy is very important when writing down information. If
taking a phone message, read the details back to the caller, especially
names, addresses and phone numbers. Use correct terminology where
appropriate.
4. Courteous – as with verbal communication, the style of the language chosen
should be appropriate to the situation and the reader.
Workplace information
Primary industry businesses regularly collect record and report
workplace information. This is done to full fill production, business and legal
requirements.
There are different types of information kept by agricultural and
horticultural workplaces. These include:
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 Financial – for example invoices for purchases and sales, profit and
loss statements, taxation records, bank and dividend statements.
 Production – for example records of livestock numbers, growth rates,
births and sales, crops sown and harvested, weed and pest control
management.
 Marketing - for example product sales, promotional and advertising
material.
 Maintenance - for example machinery and vehicle log books and
service records, property structure repairs.
 Staff – for example personal and taxation records for employees, time
sheets and salaries, work rosters.
 Legal - for example workers’ compensation, public liability and
property insurance, deeds and titles.
Workers may be required to contribute to the collection, recording and
reporting of a wide range of workplace information. To do this effectively they
need to be able to:
1. Correctly identify sources of information.
Information can be sourced internally by asking appropriate questions of
employers, supervisors or colleagues. Another way of sourcing information is to
access and read workplace documents. It is important to know where
workplace records are kept and to return them to the correct place after use.
Most enterprises have a business directory that contains the names,
addresses, phone and fax numbers, email addresses and contact names for a
number of services such as:
 suppliers
 contractors
 the local veterinarian
 trade personnel
 industry and regulatory bodies
 local government.
Training organizations and advisors from the Department of Primary
Industries and Rural Lands Protection Board are often listed on the directory of
business services.
Other external sources of information can be sourced from the media,
internet, CD ROMs and DVD’s, reference material supplied by companies and
the local library.
2. Obtain appropriate information.
Once the source of the information has been found, the correct
information needs to be collected. This will depend on the purpose of the
information, the people who will use the information and the time available or
necessary to obtain it.
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For example, if a worker is asked to ring around the local produce stores
to compare fertilizer prices, a half-hour conversation catching up on the local
gossip would not be appropriate. Conversely, if the employee responsible for
machinery maintenance was sent to look at a second-hand tractor, there would
be an expectation that sufficient time would be spent to thoroughly assess the
condition of the machine.
Information needs to be sorted so that only relevant data is collected. If a
worker is asked to obtain a three-day weather forecast for the local district, a
detailed analysis of the likelihood of cyclones in Queensland the following
summer, although possibly interesting, would not be appropriate.
3. Record information on standard forms.
A number of forms need to be completed and submitted prior to, at the
commencement of and during employment. These forms may be related to:
 employee records and workplace agreements
 personnel and staffing details
 taxation and superannuation
 banking and finance
 health and insurance records
 Workers Compensation, accidents and incidents.
It is important to read through all forms carefully, as well as any
accompanying instructions, before starting to fill them out. Make sure that all
the information is available and is correct. Check the spelling of names and
addresses and that any numbers have been accurately recorded. Government
forms are often translated into official documents and any errors will be
duplicated on them.
Details that are commonly requested include:
 full name and title
 home and postal addresses
 date of birth and country of citizenship
 phone and fax numbers and email addresses
 occupation
 Signatures and dates.
Other details that may be required could include:
 highest level of qualification
 tax file number
 bank account details
 ABN number
 Emergency contact names, addresses and phone numbers.
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Forms should be completed clearly and neatly in the spaces provided
using the type of pen and style of writing indicated in the instructions. Always
check through the answers for accuracy. Any corrections which are necessary
should be made according to the procedure set out in the instructions.
It is good practice to make a copy of the form for future reference before
presenting or mailing it. If sending the form by mail, ensure that the postal
address is correct, the sender’s address is on the envelope and the correct
postage is affixed. Retain original forms such as Birth Certificates and only
forward photocopies.
Each workplace will have a range of forms, specific to the enterprise that
workers need to complete. There is a legal obligation on employers to keep
some of these records such as safety reports and chemical records.
Forms that are common to most enterprises include:
 safety reports
 dockets, invoices and receipts
 petty cash vouchers
 time sheets
 telephone message forms
 leave forms.
Other enterprise forms might include:
 chemical records
 weather records
 vehicle and machinery log books
 registration, license and insurance forms
 equipment inspection records.
4. Use correct procedures for the storage of information.
Every organization and business has a particular method for storing
information. It is important that all employees who need to access that
information are familiar with the location and the filing systems used. Records
might be stored in the following places:
 filing cabinets
 computer files and databases
 folders on shelves, in drawers or under counters
 pin boards and white boards
Information stored in filing cabinets is usually organized alphabetically or
under different topic headings. Basic computer skills are required to access
computer records. Help should be sought if a particular piece of information
cannot be found. All records should be filed correctly and returned to the
appropriate location after use.
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Many workplaces also store information which is confidential. Anyone
with access to these records should only use them when necessary and only
allow distribution of the information to relevant personnel
SELF-CHECK 1.3-2
Types of Forms
A. Identification
Direction: Identify the answers of the statements given below. Write your
answer on the space provided before each number.
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________1. It contains the names, addresses, phone and fax numbers,
email addresses and contact names for a number of services
such as suppliers and contractors.
________2. Product sales, promotional and advertising material are pieces
of information kept by agricultural and horticultural
workplaces.
________3. A style of the language chosen that should be appropriate to
the situation and the reader.
________4. A message should be written in simple language using short
sentences or point form. Unnecessary information and
repetition should be avoided.
________5. The handwriting must be legible and the information written in
a manner that will not be confusing.
ASNWER KEY 1.3-2

Types of Forms
A. Identification
1. Business Directory
2. Marketing
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3. Courteous
4. Concise
5. Clear
DEFINITION OF TERMS
Parts of speech - are the basic types of words that English has.
Noun - is a word used to name a person, animal, place, thing, and abstract
idea.
A verb- is a word which describes an action (doing something) or a state
Pronoun- can replace a noun or another pronoun
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Adjective- modifies a noun or a pronoun by describing, identifying, or
quantifying words
Adverb- can modify a verb, an adjective, another adverb, a phrase, or a clause
Conjunction- to link words, phrases, and clauses
Preposition- links nouns, pronouns and phrases to other words in a sentence.
Interjection- is a word added to a sentence to convey emotion
Sentence- is a group of words containing a verb and its subject and expressing
a completed thought
Predicate- of a sentence is that part which says something about the subject
Fragment- is a sentence which is not complete, and therefore not
grammatically correct
Run-on sentence- is one which actually contains two (or more) complete
sentences without the proper punctuation to create separate sentences
Communication -Is defined as the art of sending and receiving information.
Effective Communication - follow the enterprise Occupational Health and
Safety and environmental procedures.
Verbal Communication- In industries a large proportion of communication is
verbal or spoken.
Closed questions- are used to obtain a particular piece of information

Open questions-encourage people to discuss a situation and share
information.
Reflective questions - also called mirror questions, are used to show the
speaker that you have been actively listening to them
Formal style- is used for writing letters to the government officials, speeches,
articles for newsletter and magazines, school assignments, long reports
and formal compositions
Informal-public style- is used in public communication, not private
communication; we use it when we want to sound informal, not formal
Casual style- is used in writing to friends, to classmates, and in jotting down
notes to family members.
Confusion between the Symbol and the Symbolized Object-Languages
abound with words that mean different things to different people
Overuse of Abstractions-Abstractions are words that are general rather than
specific
Interference-Barriers to effective communication are usually under the direct
control of the sender/encoder.
Psychological interference- is any biological problem that may inhibit symbol
reception, such as hearing loss, injury or physical illness
Environmental interference- is caused by external physical conditions. One
example of this is the noise level found in many light aircraft
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Downward communication- Communication flows from the superiors to its
subordinates.
Upward communication- The communication flows from the subordinates to
its superiors.
Lateral communication- Communication flows from functional areas at a
given level of the organization or hospital.
Diagonal communication - The communication flows from a subordinate of a
certain level to the superior of another level and vice versa.
Grapevine. It stretches throughout the organization in all directions
irrespective of authority.
Technical communications—or technical writing, as the course is often called
—is not writing about a specific technical topic such as computers, but
about any technical topics.
Technical-writing introduce you to some of the most important aspects of
writing in the world of science, technology, and business—in other words,
the kind of writing that scientists, nurses, doctors, computer specialists,
government officials, engineers, and other such people do as a part of
their regular work.
Graphics - The report should have graphics
Factual detail - The report should be very detailed and factual
Information sources - Your report should make use of information sources
Documentation - When you use borrowed information in your technical report,
be sure to cite your sources.
Realistic audience and situation - The report must be defined for a real or
realistic group of readers who exist in a real or realistic situation. Most
students invent an audience and situation
Headings and lists - The report should use the format for headings that is
required for the course, as well as various kinds of lists as appropriate
Special format- The technical report uses a rather involved format including
covers, binding, title page, table of contents, list of figures, transmittal
letter, and appendixes.
Production - The technical report should be typed or printed out neatly
Mathematics - It is the systematic study of magnitude, quantities, and their
relationships as expressed symbolically in the form of numerals and
forms.
Addition- is the basic operation of arithmetic
The basic arithmetic operations are addition, subtraction, multiplication and
division
Subtraction- is the opposite of addition
Multiplication- is the second basic operation of arithmetic
Division- is essentially the opposite of multiplication
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Clear – the handwriting must be legible and the information written in a
manner that will not be confusing.
Concise – the message should be written in simple language using short
sentences or point form. Unnecessary information and repetition should
be avoided.
Correct – accuracy is very important when writing down information. If taking
a phone message, read the details back to the caller, especially names,
addresses and phone numbers. Use correct terminology where
appropriate.
Courteous – as with verbal communication, the style of the language chosen
should be appropriate to the situation and the reader
Financial – for example invoices for purchases and sales, profit and loss
statements, taxation records, bank and dividend statements.
Production – for example records of livestock numbers, growth rates, births
and sales, crops sown and harvested, weed and pest control
management.
Marketing - for example product sales, promotional and advertising material.
Maintenance - for example machinery and vehicle log books and service
records, property structure repairs.
Staff - for example personal and taxation records for employees, time sheets
and salaries, work rosters.
Legal - for example workers’ compensation, public liability and property
insurance, deeds and titles.
REFERENCES
 Fernando, et.al. New Perspective in English One. Philippines: RBSI, 2005.
 Warriner’s English Grammar and Composition. USA:
 http://www.io.com/~hcexres/textbook/techreps.html
 http://faculty.washington.edu/ezent/imsc.htm
 http://www.english-grammar-revolution.com/sentence-
construction.html
 http://www.effective-communication.net/
 http://www.wikipedia.com
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 http://www.UOTTAWA.COM
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COMPETENCY BASED LEARNING MATERIAL

ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NCII

PARTICIPATE IN WORKPLACE COMMUNICATION

PARTICIPATING IN WORKPLACE COMMUNICATION

Technical Education and Skills Development Authority

DIRECTION FOR USE OF THE CBLM

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LEARNING OUTCOME SUMMARY

INFORMATION SHEET 1.1-1

The Parts Of Speech

What are the Parts of Speech?

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In each of the preceding sentences, a preposition locates the noun "book"

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ANSWER KEY 1.1-1

INFORMATION SHEET 1.1-2

Sentence Fragment Sentence

in the butter My glasses fell in the butter!

early this morning I awoke early this morning.

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 When the subject comes after the verb, as in interrogative sentences

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1. It has two parts – the subject and the predicate.

1. The keys to the car (are, is) on the table

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INFORMATION SHEET 1.1-3

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Barriers to Effective Communication

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Psychological interference is any biological problem that may inhibit

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__________1. It is a process of conveying messages, of transmitting meaning

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1. Read INFORMATION If you have some problem on the content of

3. Read INFORMATION If you have some problem on the content of

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1. computers with email and a) code of behavior in workplace

2. Improving the efficiency and b) items used in Formal meetings

c) efficient operation of all

d) Need that a communication