Reader 11
The Long Meeting
Elena and Mark were meeting to discuss a project that was behind schedule. The report was due the next day, but Elena still had not received Mark’s section.
At the beginning of the meeting, Mark talked about the weather, the new office printer, and how busy everyone had been. After ten minutes, Elena looked at the clock.
“Mark, I don’t want to beat around the bush,” she said. “The report isn’t ready, and the client is expecting it tomorrow.”
Mark stopped smiling. “I know. I was trying to ease into it.”
Elena opened the project folder. “We need to clear the air before we decide what to do. Is your section finished?”
“No,” Mark admitted. “I should have told you yesterday. I still need to check some information and complete two charts.”
Elena took a deep breath. “Thank you for being honest. How much time do you need?”
“I can finish it by three this afternoon,” Mark replied.
“Send it to me as soon as it’s ready,” Elena said. “I’ll review it this evening, and we can send the complete report to the client tomorrow morning.”
Mark nodded. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner.”
“Now we can make a plan,” Elena replied. “Next time, please tell me as soon as there’s a problem.”
SPEAK
Answer in complete sentences.
Why did Elena and Mark need to discuss the project?
How did Mark avoid talking about the unfinished report?
What did Mark admit to Elena?
What plan did Elena and Mark make?
Why was it important for Mark to be honest about the problem?
WRITE
Write 3 full sentences to explain:
How did Elena and Mark make a plan to complete the report?
LISTEN
Listen to the recording and respond in complete sentences.
What did the speaker say?
Do you agree or disagree with the speaker? Why?
