Lecture 1: Introduction to Technical English
1. Objectives of the Lecture:
- Understand the importance of technical English in engineering.
- Learn essential technical vocabulary.
- Differentiate between Present Simple and Present Continuous tenses in
technical writing.
2. Importance of Technical English for Engineers:
In engineering, clear communication is critical. Whether you are reading a
manual, writing a technical report, or discussing a project, precise language
ensures that everyone understands complex concepts without confusion.
Why is Technical English Important?
- Clarity: Engineers must communicate clearly in writing and speech.
- Accuracy: Technical language ensures precision when explaining processes,
measurements, or designs.
- Professionalism: Using the correct terminology and grammar enhances
professionalism in written reports, presentations, and documentation.
1
3. Basic Technical Vocabulary
Here are a few common terms that engineers frequently use. You’ll see these
terms in manuals, textbooks, and technical reports:
| Term | Definition
| Circuit | A complete path that allows electricity to flow.
| Voltage | The difference in electrical potential between two points.
| Torque | A twisting force that causes rotation.
| Load | The weight or force that a structure or machine can handle.
| Output | The result produced by a system or process.
4. Grammar Focus: Present Simple vs. Present Continuous
In technical contexts, Present Simple is used to describe general facts, laws of
nature, and permanent situations, while Present Continuous is used to describe
actions that are happening right now or temporary activities.
Present Simple:
- Describes general truths, facts, or regular actions.
- Examples in engineering:
- “Electricity flows through the circuit.”
- “The engine runs on diesel.”
2
Present Continuous:
- Describes actions that are happening right now or are temporary.
- Examples in engineering:
- “We are testing the new design.”
- “The team is assembling the parts for the prototype.”
5. Key Differences:
Present Simple
Used for general facts and regular activities.
Example: “Water boils at 100°C.”
Present Continuous
Used for actions happening at the moment.
Example: “We are measuring the water temperature now.”
6. Application in Engineering
- Present Simple is frequently used when discussing engineering principles or
rules.
- Example: “Steel expands when heated.”
- Present Continuous is used when describing current projects, experiments, or
processes in progress.
3
- Example: “We are calibrating the machine to increase its accuracy.”
7. Practice with Examples
Let’s apply these rules to some real-world engineering scenarios:
1. The motor (run) ___ on full power during the test. (Present Continuous:
temporary action)
- Answer: “The motor is running on full power during the test.”
2. The process (involve) ___ heating the material to a high temperature. (Present
Simple: general fact)
- Answer: “The process involves heating the material to a high temperature.”
