English for Construction

The construction track teaches users how to obtain an entry-level construction job and begin building a career in this high-demand field. Through an engaging web-based course, users gain the essential "quick-start" English language and job skills that lead to vocational success. This course offers a strong focus on construction workplace safety!

Features

Volume I contains four Modules:

Module 1 - Basic Computer Skills (in Spanish & English)

Module 1 in Volume 1 covers the basic computer skills a novice user would need in order to complete the course, including a step-by-step overview of the Words for Work program components and practice for all activity types. It also goes over identifying computer parts and accessing and navigating the course.

Module 2 - Understanding the American Workplace

Module 2 in Volume 1 compares and contrasts U.S. and Hispanic cultures and work ethics. It also explains the concepts of time and space, the process of demonstrating respect and appropriate behaviors in a diverse workplace, responding appropriately to gender and ethnic bias, the danger of drugs and alcohol, and general workplace vocabulary.

Module 3 - Job Search

Module 3 in Volume 1 covers identifying goals, skills, and prior experience; using print and online resources; completing online and paper job applications; contacting employers; job interview tips; and evaluating wage and benefits packages. This Module also includes an interactive Résumé Builder tool that will help the user create their own résumé to be used in job searches.

Module 4 - Effective Communication in Construction

Module 4 of Volume 1 goes over the importance of regular and appropriate communication to supervisors and colleagues, appropriate behaviors regarding attendance and punctuality, understanding workplace policies and sanctions, common communications such as greeting and thanking, reinforcing abilities to ask questions and solve conflicts, and accepting criticism and direction.

Volume II contains two Modules:

Module 5 - Becoming a Successful Employee in the Construction Trades

Module 5 in Volume 2 helps users in identifying qualities of an effective team member, contrasting positive and negative team interactions, demonstrating proactive attitudes and behaviors, practicing stress management and multi-tasking.

Module 6 - The Worksite

Module 6 in Volume 2 introduces the user to the different parts of a construction site, different jobs at sites, the definitions of skilled and unskilled laborers, common questions and answers, following directions, safety awareness including reading signs, communication about safety, safety rules at construction sites, and responding to emergencies. This module also includes an interactive safety game.

Volume III contains two Modules:

Module 7 - Customer Service and Tools of the Trade

Module 7 in Volume 3 goes over the use of lumber in construction, treated and untreated wood, measuring lumber, information on hand and power tools, and safety rules for tool use. It also gives an overview of concrete, bricks, tiles, mortar, and large power equipment.

Module 8 - Basic Math Skills

Module 8 in Volume 3 covers general math skills which include simple addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of whole numbers and fractions. It also includes making and matching equivalent measurements like teaspoons, cups, quarts and pounds; shapes; converting fractions and decimals; and more.