This document provides an introduction to a program that teaches English for describing products and services. The program aims to help students identify key features of products and services, describe different types of products and services, compare and contrast features of products, ask clarification questions about products and services, and give oral presentations on products and services. It also provides guidelines on writing product descriptions, including identifying the product, explaining its use and target consumer, describing physical attributes, strengths, pricing, warranty and where to find the product. Useful vocabulary for describing products such as "range", "practical", and "convenience" is also included. Examples are given of using the simple present tense and modals when describing products.

1. ENGLISH FOR BUSINESS PURPOSES
(PRODUCT & SERVICES)
NOOR DARLIZA MOHAMAD ZAMRI

2. INTRODUCTION
This program offers basic grammar and skills in describing products and services clearly
and confidently.
By the end of this unit you should be able to:
a)identify the features, characteristics and functions of a product or service.
b)describe the types and functions of products or services.
c)compare and contrast features, characteristics and functions of products or services.
d)ask for and make clarifications on products or services.
e)deliver an oral presentation on products or services.

3. PRODUCT
INPUT
In everyday situations, we will need to know specifications or
descriptions of products not only as consumers but also as part of our
roles in the day to day buying and perhaps selling process. We should
be aware about the products available in the market and as a result, be
in a position to assess the products’ strengths, weaknesses and
consumer needs.

4. What is a product?
A product is anything that can be offered to a
market for attention, acquisition, use, or
consumption and that might satisfy a want
or need.

5. PRODUCT GUIDELINE
You may use the format below to guide you in writing the
product description.
a. Firstly, identify the product.
This is a unique washing machine.
b. Explain the use and who would benefit most (targeted consumer).
Washing is made easy with no scrubbing or effort – perfect for
the busy career lady or any housewife who does not wish to toil over
housework.
c. Describe the physical attributes such as:
i) Sizeii) Colouriii) Shape
iv) Materials/ingredients usedv) Texturevi) Durability
This machine takes a load of 3.5 kg., rectangular in shape, made
of tough fibreglass and it comes in two colours – beige and white.
d. State the strengths of the product.
The machine can take 5 loads a day non-stop.
e. State price and discounts.
The product is currently on offer at an unbeatable price.
f.State warranty period.
This machine is under warranty for one year from the date of purchase.
g. State product outlets/and/or contact person/s.
This brand of washing machine can be found in all Mac Wash

6. INPUT
VOCABULARY
Some useful vocabulary and phrases used when describing a product include the
following. Add to this list to make it more comprehensive.
a. Range: A wide range of products is available at our outlets.
b. Practical: Not only is this product stylish, it is also very practical and
easy to use.
c. Convenience: For your convenience, we have arranged for free door-
to-door deliveries throughout Malaysia if you place an order at our
website in the next two weeks.
d. Pamper: This product is specially designed to pamper you because we
know that you deserve to be spoilt every now and then.
e. Innovative: This state-of-the-art creation is available to you in a variety
of innovative designs.

7. VOCABULARY
INPUT
Some useful vocabulary and phrases used when describing a product include the
following. Add to this list to make it more comprehensive.
a. Value for money: At a time when we all need to be careful with our
spending, this product is undoubtedly value for money.
b. Too good to be true: If you think that this is too good to be true, come
visit us at our outlets nationwide to try this amazing product for yourselves.
c. Unbeatable bargain: This is truly an unbeatable bargain for anyone who
is looking for an entertainment unit that does everything but find a date for
you.
d. A cut above: This newest addition to our range of cellular phones is without
the slightest doubt, a cut above the rest.
e. While stocks last: Our products are selling like hot-cakes. The free
umbrella for the purchase of selected items will only be available while
stocks last.

8. INPUT SIMPLE PRESENT TENSE (SP) AND MODALS (M)
The Simple Present Tense is the most commonly used tense when describing a
product.
Modals are used especially when giving options on how to use the product.
Examples:
The filter is available in three sizes. (SP)
You should change the filter once in two months. (M)
The refrigerators come in four colours. (SP)
All dissatisfied customers may return goods within seven days of
purchase. (M)

9. INPUT
LANGUAGE
made of / made out of used when we can see the original materials used for
making the object
Examples:i) This handbag is made of crocodile skin.
ii) He built a house which was made out of Lego bricks.
made from used when we cannot see the original ingredients
Examples:i) This cake is made from flour, eggs butter and sugar.
ii) Bronze is made from copper and tin.
made with to mention an important ingredient (but not usually the largest
ingredient) in the product
Examples: i) This pasta is made with fresh eggs.
ii) Our yoghurt is made with fresh fruit.
made in to describe the origin of the product

10. INPUT LANGUAGE
made of / made out of used when we can see the original materials used for
made something for someone to describe the intended recipient of a product.
Examples: i) I’m making a sweater for my husband.
ii) Sara is making a cake for her father’s birthday.
made something for a reason to describe the reason for making something
Examples: i) He made his scarf into a sling for his broken arm.
ii) His mother made the remains of the chicken into a delicious soup.
made something into to describe a process of transformation
Examples: i) She was the one who made the clay into a cup.
ii) Ancient Egyptians made glass into fibres to use them for decoration.

11. THANK YOU! 