Daily English 42 - Talking to a Professor

Learn how to talk to a professor during office hours about missed class work in English.

Dialogue/Story

[A knock on the door.]

Jeff: Come in.

Julie: Hi, Dr. McQuillan, I'm Julie Taylor. I'm in your two o'clock class on Thursdays.

Jeff: Hi, Julie. Have a seat. What can I do for you?

Julie: I wanted to come see you during your office hours because I missed class last week. I had a family emergency.

Jeff: I'm sorry to hear that. We went over a lot of material, so make sure you get the notes from another student in class.

Julie: Thanks, I will. Did you give any assignments?

Jeff: Yes, I assigned an essay on the topics in chapter three of your textbook.

Julie: Oh, I see. Are there guidelines for the essay?

Jeff: Yes, it should be 8 to 10 pages, and it's due in two weeks. Take a look at your syllabus. It has more details.

Julie: I will. Thanks a lot. I've also been meaning to talk to you about the trouble I'm having keeping up in class. I'm having trouble understanding the lectures. Is there anything you would suggest?

Jeff: Some students tape-record the lectures and listen to them afterwards. That seems to help.

Julie: That's a great idea. I'll definitely try that. I'm wondering if you give extra credit in your class.

Jeff: No, I don't give extra credit assignments. But if you're worried about passing, there are still two more tests to pull up your grade.

Julie: Yes, I'll study hard for those. Thanks a lot for your time.

Jeff: No problem. See you in class.

Julie: Okay, Professor McQuillan. See you Thursday.