SLAM 2025-26

!!!EXAM SPECIAL!!!

Dates oraux d’anglais à Mathias : (vers la 4ème semaine de mai)

Date de l’écrit : (mi mai) sujet tertiaire généraliste en deux parties : compte rendu en français et exercise d’expression en anglais

Référentiel des épreuves d’anglais et grilles de notation

Sujets écrit mai 2022, 2023, et 2024, 2025

Tous les sujets d’oraux 2022, 2023 et 2024

vocabulaire du secteur tertiaire

glossaire d’expressions pour la partie II de l”écrit

les chiffres, les nombres, la monnaie…

les erreurs classiques à ne plus faire, en particulier pendant un exam !

Themes, vocabulary and phrases.

Use such help as ChatGPT to discuss various topics and Natural Readers to improve your accent and memorize the sound and audio.

possible questions when branching out of the exam subject: 

  1. What can you tell me about your work placement (GB) / internship (US)?
  2. Why did you choose to study computing/IT?
  3. What are your plans for next year?
  4. What would be your dream job?
  5. What type of company would you like to work in?
  6. Would you choose rather a less-paid job in a small company in the country or a better-paid job in a big city?
  7. What kind of specialty do you prefer in the vast field of IT?
  8. Have you ever travelled abroad?
  9. Would you like to travel abroad, and if so, where to?
  10. Would you consider living abroad?
  11. What can you tell about some of your hobbies and interests?

Wednesday, March 4th

possible questions when branching out of the exam subject (see above)

Wednesday, February, 25th & Friday, 27th

theguardian.com-Its not too late to fix it web inventor Tim Berners-Lee says

Wednesday, December 17th

Preparing the oral exam

Friday, December 12th

Take a second look at this activity, only one in each group volonteered some work! BBC Worklife – Vocabulary Discovery Activity (BTS Written Exam Preparation) Instructions Today, you will explore the website BBC Worklife: https://www.bbc.co.uk/worklife This is one of the best websites you can read regularly to prepare for the written part of the BTS English exam. It contains short, accessible articles about work, society, well-being, careers and modern workplace culture — exactly the themes that appear in the exam every year. ⸻ 1. Browse and choose an article Spend a few minutes exploring the site. Choose any article that interests you. You may select topics such as: • well-being at work • work–life balance • remote work / hybrid work • diversity & inclusion • workplace culture • recruitment and job trends • productivity and motivation ⸻ 2. Read your chosen article Read the article attentively. You do not need to understand every word — focus on the general meaning. ⸻ 3. Collect 5 useful expressions While reading, identify five expressions (not single words) that you think are useful for: • describing work situations • expressing opinions • talking about well-being or workplace issues • discussing modern changes in work culture Example of useful expressions: • “to boost productivity” • “a flexible schedule” • “to address inequality” • “a sense of belonging” ⸻ 4. Write a short sentence for each expression For each of your 5 expressions, write one short original sentence to show that you understand how to use it in context. Example: “A flexible schedule can help employees reduce stress.” ⸻ 5. Share on the collaborative pad Copy and paste your 5 expressions into this collaborative pad. You will then have created a class vocabulary list based on your contributions.

Wednesday, December 10th

The Verge: Starlink

Friday, December 5th

AWS outage on CNET

Wednesday, December 3rd

Office English, a podcast frome BBC Learning English

Friday, November 28th

Verb Structures & Business,  Translation Quiz – 20 items

Wednesday, November 26th

BBC Worklife – Vocabulary Discovery Activity (BTS Written Exam Preparation) Instructions Today, you will explore the website BBC Worklife: https://www.bbc.co.uk/worklife This is one of the best websites you can read regularly to prepare for the written part of the BTS English exam. It contains short, accessible articles about work, society, well-being, careers and modern workplace culture — exactly the themes that appear in the exam every year. ⸻ 1. Browse and choose an article Spend a few minutes exploring the site. Choose any article that interests you. You may select topics such as: • well-being at work • work–life balance • remote work / hybrid work • diversity & inclusion • workplace culture • recruitment and job trends • productivity and motivation ⸻ 2. Read your chosen article Read the article attentively. You do not need to understand every word — focus on the general meaning. ⸻ 3. Collect 5 useful expressions While reading, identify five expressions (not single words) that you think are useful for: • describing work situations • expressing opinions • talking about well-being or workplace issues • discussing modern changes in work culture Example of useful expressions: • “to boost productivity” • “a flexible schedule” • “to address inequality” • “a sense of belonging” ⸻ 4. Write a short sentence for each expression For each of your 5 expressions, write one short original sentence to show that you understand how to use it in context. Example: “A flexible schedule can help employees reduce stress.” ⸻ 5. Share on the collaborative pad Copy and paste your 5 expressions into this collaborative pad. You will then have created a class vocabulary list based on your contributions. Friday, November 21st wired.com-With the Rise of AI, Cisco Sounds an Urgent Alarm About the Risks of Aging Tech Wednesday, November 19th Les photos de la sortie de lundi sont là, c’est un lien “privé” c’est a dire qu’elles n’apparaissent pas aux visiteurs sur mon site, il faut ce lien specifique, vous pouvez les télécharger mais ne réutilisez pas les photos montrant d’autres étudiants sans leur accord, si vous souhaitez que telle ou telle photo ne soit pas incluse dans la galerie, dites le moi le plus vite possible. Merci. https://photos.acobas.net/Musee-Museum/n-tZqS94 Oral subject of the day “Going Green” : video + pdf Friday, November 14th the 10 themes collected in the videos for the Oral Exam:

  1. Cybersecurity and Data Protection
  2. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  3. Data Management and Analytics
  4. User Experience and Interface Design
  5. Mobile and Web Development
  6. Cloud Computing and Virtualization
  7. Software Development and Engineering
  8. Networking and Connectivity
  9. IT Project Management
  10. Remote Work and Collaboration
 

1. Cybersecurity

Examples: firewall, antivirus, ransomware, phishing, encryption, data breach, malware, cyberattack, two-factor authentication, VPN Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and data from digital attacks like ransomware, malware, and phishing. To ensure safety, firewalls and antivirus software help block unauthorized access, while encryption ensures that sensitive information is protected during transmission. In the modern workplace, using two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection, particularly in high-risk environments. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are used to ensure secure connections over the internet, especially when accessing remote servers. In the event of a data breach or cyberattack, quick action is critical. Cybersecurity also involves educating employees to spot phishing attempts and avoid falling victim to social engineering. Monitoring systems for abnormal behavior and securing data backups are vital for recovery. Advice:
  1. One should implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security beyond passwords.
  2. It’s advisable to regularly update software and firmware to patch vulnerabilities.
  3. You could use strong, unique passwords and consider password managers for storing them securely.
  4. It’s essential that employees are trained to recognize phishing attacks and avoid suspicious links.
  5. One must back up important data regularly to prevent data loss from ransomware attacks.
  6. It would be wise to use endpoint protection software on all devices, including mobile ones.
  7. Sensitive data should be encrypted both at rest and in transit to protect against interception.
  8. One might consider limiting access to sensitive data based on roles to minimize potential exposure.
  9. It’s important to regularly audit and monitor networks for unusual activity.
  10. Every organization should establish a clear incident response plan in case of a cybersecurity breach.

2. Data Protection and Privacy

Examples: GDPR, encryption, data anonymization, data storage, data sharing, consent, cookies, personal data, privacy policy, data breach Data protection and privacy are essential for ensuring that personal and sensitive information remains secure. With the rise of strict regulations like GDPR, companies must be diligent in how they handle personal data. Methods like encryption and data anonymization help safeguard information during storage and transmission. It is crucial to obtain proper consent before collecting data, especially through cookies or other tracking mechanisms. Businesses are responsible for clearly outlining their privacy policy, explaining how data is collected, stored, and shared. In the case of a data breach, organizations must act swiftly to mitigate damage. Keeping data secure not only protects individuals but also maintains customer trust. Advice:
  1. One ought to use encryption tools to protect sensitive data, especially when sharing or storing it online.
  2. It’s crucial to regularly review and update privacy policies to comply with data protection regulations like GDPR.
  3. Companies could benefit from implementing role-based access control (RBAC) to limit access to sensitive data.
  4. It’s necessary to regularly audit your data storage and management processes to ensure compliance.
  5. One can use anonymization techniques when handling sensitive personal data.
  6. It’s a good idea to educate employees on data privacy best practices, including handling and sharing data securely.
  7. You might consider utilizing secure, encrypted cloud services for data storage.
  8. One should ensure that third-party vendors comply with your data protection standards.
  9. It’s important to regularly update privacy settings on social media and cloud platforms.
  10. Automatic backups should be set up for critical data to ensure recovery in case of a breach or system failure.

3. Technology in Business and Infrastructure

Examples: cloud computing, BYOD, digital transformation, IoT, scalability, SaaS, network infrastructure, IT management, servers, virtualization The role of technology in business is crucial for maintaining operations and growth. Cloud computing allows businesses to scale effortlessly, reducing reliance on physical infrastructure. Embracing BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies requires companies to ensure the security of personal devices that access the network. Digital transformation reshapes traditional business models, allowing them to leverage the power of IoT and SaaS solutions. Organizations must constantly assess their network infrastructure to guarantee scalability and flexibility in handling growing data needs. Efficient IT management and the use of virtualization help streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve productivity. Advice:
  1. One should invest in cloud storage solutions for efficient, scalable data management.
  2. It’s important to regularly assess your IT infrastructure to ensure it meets evolving business needs.
  3. It’s advisable to establish a comprehensive BYOD policy that includes security protocols for personal devices.
  4. Companies ought to implement regular security audits to identify vulnerabilities in their network.
  5. You could consider monitoring energy consumption in data centers and transitioning to greener solutions where possible.
  6. One should plan for infrastructure upgrades every few years to keep systems current and efficient.
  7. It may be beneficial to use managed IT services for specialized support in maintaining infrastructure.
  8. Ensure that redundancy is built into your data storage systems to prevent downtime or data loss.
  9. It’s a good practice to provide employees with continuous training on technology usage to optimize productivity.
  10. One must close the digital divide by ensuring remote employees have access to necessary resources.

4. Emerging Technologies

Examples: AI, blockchain, IoT, VR, AR, robotics, quantum computing, machine learning, drones, 5G Emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, and IoT are revolutionizing industries. AI and machine learning offer new capabilities for automation, while VR and AR are enhancing user experiences in fields like gaming and education. The potential of blockchain goes beyond cryptocurrencies, providing security and transparency in digital transactions. 5G networks are enabling faster, more reliable connectivity, essential for innovations like drones and robotics. Keeping up with these technologies is critical for organizations to remain competitive. Understanding quantum computing is becoming necessary as it promises to solve problems that classical computers cannot handle. Advice:
  1. One should research the potential impact of AI and automation on your industry and workforce.
  2. It’s important to invest in IoT devices with strong security protocols to prevent vulnerabilities.
  3. It would be wise to stay updated on developments in the metaverse to identify business opportunities.
  4. You could evaluate the cost-benefit ratio of implementing emerging technologies in your business.
  5. It’s necessary to set up secure networks for IoT devices to minimize hacking risks.
  6. One can train employees to work alongside AI technologies, focusing on tasks that require human insight.
  7. You should continuously review new tools and platforms to stay ahead of technological trends.
  8. It’s advisable to prepare for the integration of virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) in future business models.
  9. One must develop a plan for AI ethics to address bias, transparency, and accountability in AI usage.
  10. It’s important to ensure proper data handling practices for connected devices in the IoT ecosystem.

5. Environmental Impact of Technology

Examples: e-waste, energy consumption, data centers, recycling, green IT, sustainability, renewable energy, carbon footprint, digital detox, eco-friendly computing The environmental impact of technology is a growing concern, as e-waste and energy consumption continue to rise. Data centers, for instance, consume vast amounts of energy, leading companies to adopt green IT practices. Transitioning to renewable energy and optimizing cooling systems can help reduce the carbon footprint of these operations. Recycling and repurposing old hardware can reduce e-waste. Sustainability efforts should also include a focus on digital minimalism and digital detox strategies to promote responsible tech usage. By making eco-friendly computing choices, businesses and individuals can contribute to a healthier planet. Advice:
  1. One should choose energy-efficient hardware and upgrade devices less frequently to reduce e-waste.
  2. It’s a good idea to implement recycling programs for old or broken electronic devices.
  3. You could consider using cloud storage providers that are committed to sustainability and renewable energy.
  4. It’s important to optimize data center cooling systems to reduce energy consumption.
  5. One ought to encourage employees to practice digital minimalism by decluttering unused apps and files.
  6. Repairing devices when possible instead of replacing them is a more eco-friendly option.
  7. It may be beneficial to purchase refurbished electronics to reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing.
  8. One could opt for virtual meeting software to reduce travel-related carbon emissions.
  9. It’s essential to audit your company’s energy usage and transition to renewable energy sources where feasible.
  10. It’s advisable to encourage vendors to adopt green computing practices and prefer eco-friendly suppliers.

 

6. Cloud Computing and Virtualization

Examples: SaaS, PaaS, IaaS, cloud storage, virtual machines, hybrid cloud, cloud migration, elasticity, serverless architecture, backup solutions Cloud computing and virtualization have become cornerstones of modern IT infrastructure. They allow businesses to access and manage data, applications, and services via remote servers. Models like SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS offer varying levels of flexibility, from full applications to raw computing power. Cloud storage enables organizations to store massive amounts of data without maintaining physical servers. Virtual machines and serverless architecture improve scalability and efficiency by allowing resources to be allocated as needed. A hybrid cloud strategy, combining on-premise and cloud-based systems, offers the best of both worlds. Companies often undergo cloud migration to reduce costs and increase flexibility. Backup solutions are crucial for data recovery in case of failures, and the elasticity of cloud platforms helps businesses adapt quickly to changes in demand. Advice:
  1. One should evaluate cloud service providers carefully to match their offerings with your business needs.
  2. It’s important to implement a cloud backup strategy to ensure data is recoverable in case of an emergency.
  3. You could consider using a hybrid cloud model to maintain some control over sensitive data while leveraging cloud benefits.
  4. It’s advisable to use virtualization to reduce hardware costs and increase the efficiency of IT operations.
  5. One might opt for serverless architecture to cut down on infrastructure management responsibilities.
  6. It’s necessary to ensure that all data stored in the cloud is encrypted, both in transit and at rest.
  7. One should plan for a phased cloud migration to minimize disruptions to business operations.
  8. It’s a good idea to use cloud monitoring tools to track performance and identify potential issues early.
  9. You could benefit from reviewing the Service Level Agreement (SLA) with cloud providers to understand downtime policies.
  10. It’s essential to implement multi-factor authentication for cloud accounts to prevent unauthorized access.

7. Software Development and Engineering

Examples: agile, DevOps, APIs, frameworks, debugging, testing, CI/CD, version control, automation, software lifecycle Software development and engineering encompass the processes and methodologies used to design, build, and maintain software applications. Agile and DevOps are popular approaches that focus on rapid iteration and collaboration between development and operations teams. APIs allow different software systems to communicate with each other, enhancing functionality. Developers work with various frameworks to streamline coding, while debugging and testing are essential for ensuring the quality of the software. Version control tools like Git help teams track changes and collaborate effectively. CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment) pipelines automate testing and deployment, speeding up the software development lifecycle. Automation plays a critical role in reducing manual errors, increasing efficiency, and freeing up developers to focus on more complex tasks. Advice:
  1. One should adopt version control systems like Git to manage and track changes in code.
  2. It’s a good idea to use Agile or Scrum methodologies to enhance team collaboration and flexibility.
  3. You could consider using a CI/CD pipeline to automate testing and deployment, speeding up the release cycle.
  4. It’s important to test software early and often to catch bugs before they escalate.
  5. One should use APIs to enable integration with other platforms and services, extending functionality.
  6. It’s essential to invest in automated testing tools to increase software reliability and save time.
  7. One might benefit from integrating DevOps practices to streamline operations and development workflows.
  8. You should document code thoroughly to ensure that future developers can easily understand and maintain it.
  9. It’s advisable to choose frameworks that are well-supported and updated to future-proof the software.
  10. It’s necessary to keep software secure by incorporating regular security audits and patches.

8. Networking and Connectivity

Examples: LAN, WAN, VPN, bandwidth, routers, switches, IP address, network protocols, wireless networks, subnetting Networking and connectivity are fundamental to ensuring that devices, servers, and services communicate efficiently. LAN (Local Area Network) and WAN (Wide Area Network) are two common types of networks that connect devices over short and long distances, respectively. To secure communication, VPNs are used to establish encrypted connections over public networks. Understanding bandwidth is crucial for optimizing network performance, and devices like routers and switches play key roles in directing traffic. Managing IP addresses and subnetting helps structure networks, ensuring efficient communication. Additionally, network protocols govern how data is transmitted, and wireless networks have become essential for modern business operations. Balancing network loads and ensuring redundancy is vital for minimizing downtime. Advice:
  1. One should configure VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) to segment traffic and enhance network security.
  2. It’s a good idea to regularly update router and switch firmware to patch vulnerabilities.
  3. You could consider using VPNs to secure remote connections, particularly for employees working off-site.
  4. One should ensure that network protocols like TCP/IP are correctly configured for efficient data transfer.
  5. It’s necessary to monitor bandwidth usage to prevent bottlenecks and ensure smooth network performance.
  6. You might benefit from using Quality of Service (QoS) settings to prioritize critical network traffic.
  7. It’s advisable to implement network redundancy to prevent outages and maintain uptime.
  8. You should regularly test network speeds and connection quality to maintain optimal performance.
  9. One must ensure that firewalls are configured correctly to prevent unauthorized network access.
  10. It’s essential to maintain accurate records of IP addresses and device locations to simplify troubleshooting.

9. IT Project Management

Examples: Gantt chart, stakeholders, milestones, resources, budgeting, scheduling, risk management, scope, deliverables, ROI IT project management involves coordinating resources, time, and tasks to achieve specific goals, typically within a budget and a set timeline. Tools like the Gantt chart help visualize project timelines and dependencies. Engaging with stakeholders early on ensures that all parties are aligned with the project’s goals. Milestones are key checkpoints that measure progress. Effective project managers must also balance resource allocation, ensuring that teams have the necessary tools and support. Budgeting and scheduling are crucial to avoid overspending and delays. Risk management involves identifying and mitigating potential challenges that could derail the project. Ensuring the project remains within its scope is vital for preventing scope creep. Delivering on deliverables and showing a good ROI is the ultimate goal. Advice:
  1. One should define project scope clearly to prevent scope creep and manage expectations.
  2. It’s a good idea to create a detailed Gantt chart to visualize project timelines and task dependencies.
  3. You could consider holding regular stakeholder meetings to ensure all parties are aligned on project objectives.
  4. It’s important to manage risk by identifying potential challenges early and preparing mitigation strategies.
  5. One ought to allocate resources efficiently, ensuring teams have the tools and support needed.
  6. It’s necessary to stay on top of budgeting to avoid overspending and ensure a healthy ROI.
  7. You should break down the project into milestones to measure progress and keep teams motivated.
  8. It’s advisable to maintain clear communication channels to keep all project members informed of changes.
  9. One must prioritize deliverables based on urgency and importance to meet deadlines.
  10. It’s beneficial to conduct a post-project review to assess what worked well and what could improve for future projects.

10. Remote Work and Collaboration

Examples: telecommuting, video conferencing, cloud collaboration, remote desktop, productivity tools, communication platforms, asynchronous communication, time zones, VPN, cybersecurity The rise of remote work has transformed the way teams collaborate. Telecommuting allows employees to work from anywhere, making video conferencing tools and cloud collaboration platforms essential. Tools like Zoom, Slack, and Microsoft Teams enable real-time communication, while asynchronous communication allows for flexible workflows across different time zones. Accessing a remote desktop or using VPNs ensures secure access to company resources. However, remote work requires a focus on cybersecurity, as employees often access networks from less secure locations. Keeping teams productive involves using the right productivity tools and ensuring clear communication practices. Advice:
  1. One should ensure that employees have secure VPN access to company networks when working remotely.
  2. It’s important to use cloud collaboration tools like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 to maintain file-sharing efficiency.
  3. You could consider establishing clear protocols for asynchronous communication to accommodate different time zones.
  4. It’s necessary to hold regular video conferences to maintain a sense of connection and collaboration among remote teams.
  5. One might use project management tools like Trello or Asana to track tasks and deadlines.
  6. You should provide cybersecurity training focused on remote work practices to all employees.
  7. It’s advisable to standardize communication tools to streamline collaboration and reduce friction.
  8. One must monitor employee productivity while respecting their autonomy in a remote work setup.
  9. It’s a good idea to have a backup plan for internet outages, such as using mobile hotspots.
  10. You could benefit from ensuring all remote employees have ergonomic setups to reduce strain and improve work comfort.

Wednesday, November 12th

now watch this other video and answer these questions. Friday, November 7th a survival kit for the written exam Wednesday, November 5th Orals + a bit of reading from The Guardian : ‘A good moment in time for us’: Firefox head on AI browsers and what’s next for the web Wednesday, October 15th TEST + video Wednesday, October 8th & Friday, October 10th Oral exam subject : AI and Jobs : pdf and video Wednesday, September 30th  

🎥 WATCH THE VIDEO

Product Flops & Business Failures – Student Form

Instructions : Answer the 12 questions below. When finished, click button ① to generate your answers. Then select and copy manually (Ctrl+A → Ctrl+C) from the box, and use button ② to go to the contact form and paste them.

② 📩 Go to Contact Form

📄 Your answers (select and copy manually)

  Friday, September 26th & Wednesday, September 24th Oral exam subject: video + pdf Friday, September 19th & Wednesday, 17th Prepare some notes for a work placement report (+/- 10%). Use this document as a guideline and don't forget to go into some technical details when you mention your project. This is some preliminary research for an oral which will take place in a couple of weeks. Here is a list of simple structures to use :

  1. I did my internship at (company name).
  2. I worked in the (department name) department.
  3. My role was to assist with (task/project).
  4. I usually started my workday at (time).
  5. One of my main responsibilities was (task).
  6. I learned a lot about (topic/skill) during my internship.
  7. I worked closely with (colleague/supervisor name) on (project/task).
  8. I improved my (skill) during my internship.
  9. Every day, I (task), which helped me gain experience in (field).
  10. My supervisor taught me how to (skill/task).
  11. I participated in team meetings where we discussed (project/topic).
  12. One challenge I faced during my internship was (challenge).
  13. I handled tasks like (task) and (task).
  14. My internship gave me insight into (industry/field).
  15. I received feedback on my (task/skill) from my mentor.
  16. I was responsible for (task), and I really enjoyed it.
  17. I think the internship helped me prepare for a career in (field).
  18. I had the opportunity to work on (project/task), which was very interesting.
  19. I gained hands-on experience with (tool/software/process).
  20. I plan to use what I learned during my internship to (future goal).

Friday, September 12th VOUS RÉPONDREZ EN ANGLAIS À LA QUESTION 1 OU LA QUESTION 2 AU CHOIX. VOUS RÉDIGEREZ UN MINIMUM DE 200 MOTS. Vous êtes Dylan Robinson (dylan.rbsn@corporatehappiness.com), coach bien-être missionné(e) par l’entreprise britannique de lunetterie Look!Glasses (@look!glasses.co.uk) pour mettre en place des mesures visant à améliorer le bienêtre des salarié(e)s. Vous adressez un courriel à l’ensemble des personnels pour leur soumettre certaines mesures. Vous précisez tout d’abord que, pour des raisons budgétaires, les mesures feront l’objet d’un vote ultérieur. Vous proposez ensuite les mesures suivantes :  la mise à disposition d’ordinateurs portables et d’espaces de travail flexibles ;  la possibilité de s’inscrire à des cours de cuisine et de sophrologie;  la création d’un espace-repos équipé de fauteuils et de canapés ;  la mise à disposition d’en-cas (froids et chauds) et de boissons chaudes ou fraîches, tout au long de la journée ;  la possibilité 3 jours par semaine de quitter le travail avant les bouchons de 17 heures. Pour chacun des points, veillez à rédiger des phrases complètes. Vous pouvez étoffer avec des exemples de votre choix. Présentation d’usage et formules de politesse send me your work at ACOBAS.net   Wednesday, September 3rd Sujet d'écrit 2025