A. Complete these definitions with jobs from the box

1. A designs and develops IT devices.

2. A writes computer programs.

3. A edits and deletes posts made by contributors to a blog.

4. A uses page layout software to prepare electronic files for publication.

5. A manages the hardware and software that comprise a network.

6. A designs and maintains websites.

7. A works with companies to build secure computer systems.

8. A helps end-users with their computer problems in person, by email or over the phone.

LISTENING 2b. Listen to four people on a training course introducing themselves and talking about their jobs. Which job in 2a does each person do?

Speaker 1_______________ Speaker 3__________________

Speaker 2______________ Speaker 4__________________

READING 3a. Work in groups of three: A, B and C. Read your text and complete this table. You may not find information for each section of your table.

Text A

How to become a programming expert

The primary requirements for being a good programmer are nothing more than a good memory, an attention to detail, a logical mind and the ability to work through a problem in a methodical manner breaking tasks down into smaller, more manageable pieces.

However, it’s not enough just to turn up for a job interview with a logical mind as your sole qualification. An employer will want to see some sort of formal qualification and a proven track record. But if you can show someone an impressive piece of software with your name on it, it will count for a lot more than a string of academic qualifications.

So what specific skills are employers looking for? The Windows market is booming and there’s a demand for good C, C++, Delphi, Java and Visual Basic developers. Avoid older languages such as FORTRAN and COBOL unless you want to work as a contract programmer.

For someone starting out, my best advice would be to subscribe to the programming magazines such as Microsoft Systems Journal. Get one or two of the low-cost ‘student’ editions of C++, Visual Basic and Delphi. Get a decent book on Windows programming. If you decide programming is really for you, spend more money on a training course.

Text B