1. Introduction

Units 1abc share one topic: how technology can save someone´s life. This is demonstrated on the use of free-floating beacons linked to the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system. In Unit 1a, you will read a story on how this system helped to rescue two sailors whose boat quickly sank in the Indian Ocean. Units 1b and 1c will then give you an idea on how the system works.

As you may not be one of those sailing in the ocean very often, each of these units will also discuss some other similar systems that are more common in our everyday lives. They have the potential to prevent accidents or even save lives and are somehow linked to electrical engineering – either power engineering or electronics.

 

Contents:

  • Past Simple Tense to talk about finished events:

At 9:30, the coastguard received a signal from the boat´s emergency beacon.

  • Questions about finished past events:

When did the coastguard receive a signal from the boat´s emergency beacon?