Business English Lesson: Writing a Resume/CV

In this lesson, students learn about the basics of a resume/CV and practice writing their own.

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 3.1. Warm-Up Questions 

1. What is the purpose of a resume?

2. What should be included on a resume?

3. How long should a resume be?

3.2a. Basic Elements of a Resume

a) Name, Address, Contact Information

b) Education

c) Achievements/Certifications

d) Work Experience

e) References

3.2b. Sample Resume

Fill in the information about yourself.

Name

___________________________________________________________

Address

___________________________________________________________

Phone

___________________________________________________________

EDUCATION (Most Recent First)

School Name – Degree Awarded

___________________________________________

___________________________________________

___________________________________________

ACHIEVEMENTS / CERTIFICATIONS

___________________________________________

___________________________________________

WORK EXPERIENCE (Most Recent First)

Dates of Employment     Company Name     Title

_____________________  _____________________  __________________

Responsibilities (Stay consistent with verb tense!)

 _________________________________________________

 _________________________________________________

 _________________________________________________

 _________________________________________________

Dates of Employment     Company Name     Title

_____________________  _____________________  __________________

Responsibilities (Stay consistent with verb tense!)

 _________________________________________________

 _________________________________________________

 _________________________________________________

 _________________________________________________

Dates of Employment     Company Name     Title

_____________________  _____________________  __________________

Responsibilities (Stay consistent with verb tense!)

 _________________________________________________

 _________________________________________________

 _________________________________________________

 _________________________________________________

After you have filled out the necessary information, exchange your resume with a classmate. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes. Give suggestions on what could be added or deleted.

At home, type up your resume and bring it back to class. Compare resumes with other students. Look at elements such as font, spacing, bold titles, and overall appearance.