TOEFL® Podcast #6

Asking for an Extension for an Assignment

Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

Audio Index
Slow dialog: 1:00
Explanations: 2:56
Fast Dialog: 12:50
Questions: 14:05

Student: Professor Eng, could I speak to you for a minute?

Professor: What can I do for you?

Student: Well, it’s about the paper that’s due on Thursday. I was wondering if I could get an extension?

Prof: I don’t give extensions unless there’s a very good reason.

Student: Well, you see, I’ve been sick and haven’t been able to do the library research I need for the paper.

Prof: This paper was assigned at the beginning of the semester so you’ve known about it for six weeks. I purposely give students plenty of notice so that they can budget their time accordingly. I understand that you’ve been sick, but I can’t give you an extension because you’ve procrastinated.

Student: I didn’t wait until the last minute to do the assignment. I started researching my topic weeks ago. In fact, I’ve already written a rough draft of the body of the paper. But, I need a couple more sources for the conclusion.

Prof: I’ll tell you what. If you can get a note from your doctor, I’ll give you an extra few days. Otherwise, it’ll still be due on Thursday.

Student: Okay, I understand. Thanks, anyway. I’ll try to get it done by Thursday.

Script by Dr. Lucy Tse