Technical English 1
for MB and WT students

The Language Centre runs the English for special purposes course for students studying mechanical engineering or defence engineering. The module lasts one term and is offered in the autumn term to first-year MB and WT students.

This course focuses on developing technical vocabulary through texts drawn from various fields of mechanical engineering, such as materials science, mechanics, automation and computer engineering. Particular emphasis is placed on the use of technical dictionaries, as it is important for prospective engineers to be able to understand English-language texts independently. Translating texts into German while retaining their meaning (mediation) is another key focus, with the aim of using correct German technical terminology.

The vocabulary acquired in this way is consolidated through

• Listening comprehension exercises
• Descriptions of equipment and operational procedures (in writing)
• Descriptions of sketches and diagrams (orally)

Where necessary, grammatical structures that frequently occur in a technical context (e.g. the passive voice) are revised.

At the end of the course, participants will be assessed on what they have learned in a 90-minute written exam.