7TheResultssectioninempiricalwriting.docVIP

English for International Students Unit www.eisu.bham.ac.uk Academic Writing for Scientists and Engineers The Results Section in Empirical Writing (2) Introductory task: language 1. The language of comparison In the Results section, you will have to discuss your key results. This is likely to necessitate the language of comparison. Comparing involves looking at similarities and differences, which is likely to include comparative and superlative forms. Underline the language of comparison in the following interview: Q: First of all, could you clarify the difference between safety testing and performance testing? A: Well, unlike safety testing, which is usually mandatory, independent performance testing is a voluntary process. It is dictated just by the goals and objectives of the company. Q: I see. So, if it’s voluntary, why would a company choose to performance test its products? There are many reasons. One simple benefit is that it enables a company to verify its own internal test data. But there are a number of other very sound business reasons. In fact, in addition to safety testing, independent performance testing offers one of the best ways to gain a demonstrable competitive edge over the competition. Q: How? Well, by doing performance testing, a company can measure how well its products compare with those of its competitors so that it can design them to be more competitive. Q: I see. Another benefit is that after conducting performance testing, a company can make more impressive marketing claims such as “the longest lasting…” or “the world’s quietest…” or “the most economical in its class” etc. Q: Claims which have a great impact on customers. Exactly. Validated performance tests also help a company to secure valuable approval and endorsements from trade associations in their industry. Q: Which are also worth having. And if a company has conducted independent performance tests, it can show to retailers that its products are the best in their