María Sanglada Argiles

English for
MECHATRONICS

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 Primera edición, 2024
Autora: María Sanglada Argiles
Maquetació: Ángela Fernández Carretero
Edita: Educàlia Editorial
Imágenes: Freepik
Imprime: Grupo Digital 82, S. L.
ISBN: 978-84-19993-98-4
Depósito Legal: en trámite
Printed in Spain/Impreso en España.

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 VOCABULARY GRAMMAR READING LI
• Mechatronics disciplines • Present simple. • A day in the life •

1
• Frequency adverbs of a mechatronic •
What’s and expressions of technician •
mechatronics? frequency.

• Materials and properties. • Present continuous. • The world is changing: •

2
• Mechanical components • Describing pictures: The 4th industrial
prepositions, there revolution.
Mechanics I is/are. • Types of materials

• AC vs DC (Tesla vs Edison) • Past simple. • The war of the •

3
• Electric circuits. • In/on/at currents. •
Electricity and • What’s electronics? • What’s electronics?

electronics

4
• Different tools for • Used to/for. • Mechanical fasteners •
different workshops. • zxPast continuous
At the • Verbs used with the tools.
workshop I • Mechanical fasteners

• Mechanical systems. • Present perfect. • Mechanical systems. •

5
• Hydraulics and • Yet, just, already. • Hydraulics and
pneumatics. pneumatics. •
Mechanics II • How a lift works. • How a lift works.

6
• Technical drawing. • The future (be • Technical drawing. •
• Computer-aided design going to, present • Computer-aided •
Technical (CAD) continuous) design (CAD)
drawing • The future: (Will)

• The assembly line. • Review of verb • Ford’s assembly line •

7
• Robots and robotics. tenses. starts rolling.
Automation • Something, anything, • Robots and robotics.
and robotics nothing…

• Machine tools. • Modal verbs. • Machine tools. •

8
• PPE and safety rules at the • Imperative. • Types of machining
At the workshop. •
workshop II • Types of machining.

9
• Maintenance and quality • Quantifiers. • Intro to maintenance •
Maintence management. and quality
• Phrasal verbs management. •
and quality • Poka yoke, the art of
management error-proofing.

10
• Manufacturing processes. • The passive voice. • Manufacturing •
• Inventions (machines processes. •
Manufacturing • The car manufacturing
processes process.

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 LISTENING WRITING SPEAKING GO FURTHER
• What’s mechatronics? • A day in your life • Introductions. • Do you feel like
• Alex’s hobbies. • Mechatronic youtubers. starting your own
• Mechatronic youtubers project?

ging: • Mechanical component • Describing images • Describing pictures. • New materials.

• Materials or (speaking)
components?

• Electric circuits. • Other geniuses • Let’s talk about the • The Faraday Cage.
• 10 incredible Nikola (biographies) past. (speaking)
? Tesla inventions to blow • Electronic gadgets that
your mind changed the world.

ers • Ordering fasteners • Emails • Split crossword: • Building the dream

describing tools. Workshop. (video-
• Explain yourself: What listening)
were you doing?

ms. • The internal combustion • Have you ever…? • Have you ever…? • Mechanisms for
engine. (Present perfect vs • How mechatronic converting Rotational
• Other systems. past simple) systems work. Motion into linear
motion. (listening &
speaking)

. • Technical drawing. • “CAD Blueprint • Let’s talk about the • Explain your creation.
• Future trends of CAD Descriptions” future. (speaking)
systems

ne • History of automation in • Weird robots. My • General knowledge • Can you explain these
manufacturing. favourite one… quiz. projects? (speaking)
cs. (description) • Charles Chaplin – The
assembly line (video
and debate

• PPE and safety rules at • Tell me how • What do these signs • Satisfying CNC
g the workshop. to…( giving mean? working processes
• Guess the machine tool. instructions) • You’re the teacher now. (speaking)

nce • Maintenance and • A quality • Tell me about your • What does a quality
quality management. maintenance lifestyle. inspector do? (video)
• Poka yokes. report. • Can you troubleshoot?
of

• Incredible inventions. • Applications of the • True or false (general • Crazy inventions.

• How things are made. 3D printer. knowledge) (listening and
uring • How things are made. speaking

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 1 What’s
mechatronics?

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 1 speaking

introductions
1. Fill in the gaps and and answer the questions in pairs.

• What your name? • What do you usually in your

free time?
• Where you from?
• Do you any sport or go to the
• Where do you ? gym?

• Do you any brothers or sisters? • Do you any favorite songs or

artists?
• Do you any pets?
• What your favorite books,
• What something unique about movies, or TV shows?
yourself ?
• How often do you clubbing?
• Do you any hobbies?

• What area of mechatronics are you most • What are the latest advancements in
passionate about? mechatronics that you find interesting?

• Can you speak any other languages? Which?

• Are you comfortable with technology?

• Can you think of any more questions?

• Have you ever worked in a team? How was the
experience?

2. What did your partner tell you? Tell the class.

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 vocabulary
& listening 1
What’s mechatronics?
1. Mechatronics is a multidisclipinary field that includes...

Hydraulics

Mechatronics Computer
science

Electricity

2. Here you can see five definitions of “mechatronics” made by five technicians. Complete the
definitions with words from the box.

mechanics sense developes automated systems tasks components

1. It’s a discipline that combines mechanical and electrical principles to create robots and

2. It is about building machines that can think, and act using a combination of mechanical and
electronic components.

3. It involves the integration of mechanical , electronic sensors, and computer control systems
to find innovative solutions for a wide range of industries.

4. It designs and machines that can perform precise actions automatically and smartly.

5. It’s a field that combines , electronics and computer science to create smart machines that
can sense their environment, make decisions, and perform with efficiency.

3. TRACK 1. Now listen to the technicians to correct your sentences.

4. What’s mechatronics for you? Can you share an example of a mechatronic system that
impressed or inspired you?

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 1 vocabulary
& listening

5. How much do you know about mechatronics? Work in pairs. Can you classify each of the
following words into their respective mechatronics fields?

gears control circuits fluids pressure valves compressor voltage

resistance programming data structures air cylinders artificial intelligence friction current
manipulators solenoid valves algorithms transistors sensors actuators diodes motion

Mechanics Electronics Electricity Hydraulics Pneumatics Automation Robotics Computer

Science

6. Mechatronic systems are devices that have fewer mechanical parts because of the
integration of sensors, circuits, information technology and motion components such
as actuators. Mechatronic systems are typically those that can respond and react to the
external environment on their own. Can you identify the following mechatronic systems?

4
1
3

7
5
6
10

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 Reading
1
A day in the life of a
mechatronic technician
Meet Alex, a skilled mechatronic technician who works in the cutting-edge field of
mechatronics. In this text, Alex will walk you through a typical day at his job.

Hello, everyone! My name is Alex, and I am a mechatronic technician. Mechatronics is a fascinating field
and as a mechatronic technician, my main responsibility is to ensure that complex systems function
smoothly in my company.

Every morning, I arrive at my workplace, a high-tech manufacturing plant, filled with machines and robots
busy at work. My day usually starts with a short meeting with the engineering team to discuss tasks for
the day. We speak about plans for building and maintaining mechatronic systems, such as robotic arms,
automated assembly lines and machinery.

For example, today it’s time to get dirty with a robotic arm that’s not working properly. I examine the
components, check the wires, and run some tests. Bingo! I find out it’s just a worn-out gear, so I replace
it for a new one. The robot’s back in the game, and I am the hero!

One of the things I love most about my job is that every day is different. On a normal day, I can troubleshoot
a malfunctioning robotic arm, programme a PLC to control a production line, or calibrate sensors to
ensure precise measurements. Each project presents unique challenges, where problem-solving skills
are essential.

Mechatronics is at the forefront of technological advancements, so continuous learning is an important

part of being a mechatronic technician. Attending workshops, reading research papers, and collaborating
with colleagues keeps me informed and ready for new challenges.

1. Answer these questions about the text: 2.Match the highlighted words in the text
with their definitions:
1. What is the main responsibility of Alex as a
mechatronic technician? 1. cutting-edge: worn or used with no possible
repair
2. Where does Alex work? 2. assembly lines: innovative
3. worn-out abilities or experience to do
3. What are some examples of mechatronic something well
systems that Alex deals with in his job?
4. (to) troubleshoot (to) identify a problem and
find a solution
4. Why does he like his job?
5. skills meeting designed to develop
a skill or technique
5. Why is continuous learning important in his 6. workshops arrangement of machines..in
profesion? which a product is assembled
as it is moved along a line

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 1 Grammar

PRESENT SIMPLE
We use present simple to speak about
something that happens regularly in Afirmative Negative Interrogative
the present (routines) or for things I play I don’t play (do not play) Do I play…?
which are generally true.
You play You don’t play (do not play) Do you play…?
He plays He doesn’t play (do not play) Does he play…?
• I work in a factory, but • The baby has a shower
my brother works in a every day. She plays She doesn’t play (do not play) Does she play…?
bank. • My car doesn’t use It plays It doesn’t play (do not play) Does it play…?
• It rains a lot in winter. much petrol.
• Do they always have • What kind of books
We play We don’t play (do not play) Do we play…?
breakfast? does he normally read? You play You don’t play (do not play) Do you play…?
They play They don’t play (do not play) Do they play…?
short answers.
I, we, you, they do
Yes finish > finishes watch > watches
he, she, it does
study > studies try > tries
I, you, we, they don’t
No do > does go > goes
he, she, it doesn’t
have > has

Pay attention to the word order in questions:

Question word Auxiliar Subject Infinitive

work?
Does this computer

Do you work on Saturdays?

Where does your brother live?

How often does she go to the gym?

How much does that machine
cost?

Remember that some verbs (“to be”, “can”…) make the positive, negative and interrogative in a
different way! You can learn it on these web pages: https://lingokids.com/english-for-kids/verb-can
& https://lingokids.com/english-for-kids/verb-to-be

In English, there are two types of questions: Yes/No questions and Wh– questions:
• Yes / No questions have only two possible responses: “yes” and “no”. These questions start with
an auxiliary verb, the verb «to be» or a modal verb. Examples:
» Did you work last night? Yes, I did.
» Are you ready to go? No, I’m not.
» Can I go out tonight? Yes, you can.
• Wh- Questions start with a question word (i.e. what, where, when, etc.) Examples:
» Where were you when I called you? I was at the cinema.
» How did you get home last night? A friend gave me a lift.
» How many tools are there in the toolbox? There are several.
12 Other question words are: which, when, who, whose, why…..

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 Grammar
1
1. Complete the sentences with verbs in present simple (“to be and “can” included):

1. Alex’s day usually ………………………… with a short 5. Ana also ………………………… in a hig-tech
meeting. (start) manufacturing plant. (work)

2. …………………mechatronics a fascinating world for 6. I can speak English, but I ……………….speak German.
you? (be) (can’t)

3. …………you …………………an interesting job? (have) 7. He ………………………… to replace the gear for another
one. (have)
4. We don’t usually ………………………… workshops very
often. (attend) 8. These machines are expensive. They ………………… a
lot of money. (cost)

2. Write questions and answer them about yourself:

1. you / watch TV / in the evening ? 4. your father / work / in a garage?

2. your friends / like / playing computer games? 5. your best friend / be / from Valencia ?

3. you / study / on Saturdays ? 6. you / can play / an instrument ?

3. Make the correct questions for these answers:

1. ? My parents live in Manchester.

2. ? I go shopping once a month.
3. ? Yes, she does.
4. ? Yes, he is.
5. ? My friend usually gets up at 7.
6. ? No, I can’t.

4. Translate the following sentences:

1. ¿Cuánto cuesta este coche?

2. Estudio inglés todos los días.
3.Mi trabajo no es muy interesante.
4. Tom no hace su trabajo muy bien.
5. ¿Puedes dejarme 30€?
6. Empezamos las clases antes de las 9.
7.¿A qué se dedican tus padres?
8. Susan trabaja en una fábrica. …………………………………………………………………….
9. ¿Puedo usar tu teléfono? …………………………………………………………………….
10. A Alex le gusta trabajar con robots. …………………………………………………………………….
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 1 listening

alex’s free time

1. TRACK 2. You will hear Alex talk to a friend, Sarah, about how they spend their free time.
Listen carefully to Alex’s descriptions and choose the best option for each question.

1. What does Alex enjoy doing in his free time?

A. Only hiking and photography.

B. Attending yoga classes.

C. Exploring different hobbies.

D. All of the above.

2. What advice does Alex give to beginners who want to try

hiking?

A. Start with short and easy trails.

B. Wear appropriate footwear and bring water and snacks.

C. Enjoy the breathtaking views.

D. All of the above.

3. What does Alex like to capture with his camera?

A. Animals during hikes.

B. Beautiful landscapes during hikes.

C. Delicious meals and recipes.

D. All of the above.

4. What does Alex like about cooking?

A. Cooking has become therapeutic.

B. Alex enjoys experimenting with flavors.

C. Trying out new recipes brings joy.

D. All of the above.

2. Listen to the conversation again and decide if the following statements are true or false.
True False

1. Alex enjoys exploring different hobbies and activities in their free time.

2. Sarah has never been interested in hiking.

3. Sarah is interested in seeing some of Alex’s favorite photos.

4. Sarah wants to try new hobbies, inspired by Alex’s enthusiasm.

5. Alex and Sarah plan to go hiking together sometime in the future.

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 Grammar
1
FREQUENCY ADVERBS AND
EXPRESSIONS OF FREQUENCY
We use frequency adverbs and expressions of frequency with present simple to talk about how often
something happens:

Frequency adverbs: Always, usually/normally, often, sometimes, hardly ever, never.

They go before the main verb (but after the verb “to be”):

• We always go to bed before 11p.m.

• She’s never late.
• I don’t often watch TV.

Expressions of frequency: Once a week, every day, twice a month, three times a year…

They go at the end of the sentence:

• I have English lessons every day.

In present simple we can also use other time expressions such as: on Mondays, in the evening, on Tuesday
afternoons, in the morning, at weekends… These other time expressions can be placed at the beginning
or the end of the sentence:

On Mondays he attends the electricity class. or He attends the electricity class on Mondays.

1.Write sentences about you using frequency 2. Use the adverb and the correct form of the
adverbs or expressions of frequency: verb in brackets:

1. (travel by car). I never travel by car….or…. I travel by car every day… 1. She ………………………….. her room at the weekend.
(often, tidy)
2. (study at night) …………………………………………………..
2. Our teacher ………………………….. late for lessons
3. (play videogames) ……………………………………………… (never, be)
4. (go to the gym) …………………………………………………… 3. The school bus ………………………….. at half past seven.
(always, not arrive)
5. (hang out with friends) ……………………….....................
4. I ………………………….. football on TV. (usually, not
6. (study technical English) ……………………………………... watch)
……........................................................................................... 5. He ………………………….. very tired after work. (always,
7. (be late for class) ………………………………………………… be)

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 1 writing

a day in my life
It’s time to share the excitement of your daily routine. Write about a typical day in your life
as a mechatronic student. You can include your experiences in class, the challenges you
face, and the activities you enjoy outside your studies.
Here are some verbs and phrases HOUR MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
you can use:
08:00 - 09:00
• get up
09:00 - 10:00
• start my classes
• go to the workshop 10:00 - 11:00

• finish my classes
11:00 - 12:00
• have breakfast
12:00 - 13:00
• assemble/ experiment / solve/ test
• have lunch 13:00 - 14:00

• go to the gym/watch TV/go out with

15:00 - 16:00
friends
16:00 - 17:00

1 speaking &
listening

Mechatronic youtubers
In mechatronics, one exciting way to find inspiration and entertainment is by watching people create their own
projects. Many of the young mechatronic YouTubers behind these channels have different engineering degrees.
Now, let’s watch some of their videos. Work in pairs, choose the project you like and explain it to the class:
https://youngmechatronic.com/mechatronics-youtubers/

In your explanation of the project, answer the

following questions:
1. What do you know about the mechatronic
youtuber of your project?
2. What’s the purpose of the project?
3. Do you think it is useful?

GO FURTHER…
Do you feel like starting your own project? Here are
some ideas.
https://youngmechatronic.com/robotics-project-
ideas-for-beginners/ Go for it!

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