Reader 13
The Shift Change
Jasmine was scheduled to work at a small café until 4:00 p.m. Marco was supposed to arrive at 4:00 and take over the evening shift. At 3:55, Jasmine noticed that he had not arrived.
A moment later, Marco called her. “I’m running behind,” he said. “Can you cover for me for about twenty minutes?”
Jasmine looked at the line of customers waiting to order. “I can stay a little longer, but I need you to be straight with me. Will it really be twenty minutes?”
Marco was quiet for a moment. “It may be closer to forty,” he admitted. “Traffic is moving very slowly.”
Jasmine looked at her coworker Beth. “I don’t want to leave the team short-handed during the afternoon rush.”
“I can stay at the counter while you finish the drink orders,” Beth offered.
Jasmine thanked her, and they continued serving the customers together. Marco arrived thirty-five minutes later and immediately put on his apron.
“I’m sorry I was late,” he said. “Thank you both for coming through for me.”
“Next time, call as soon as you know you’ll be delayed,” Jasmine replied. “It’s easier to make a plan when we know what to expect.”
Marco agreed and took over the counter so Jasmine could leave.
SPEAK
Answer in complete sentences.
Why did Marco call Jasmine before his shift?
Why did Jasmine ask Marco to be honest about the time?
What problem did Jasmine want to avoid at the café?
How did Beth help Jasmine and Marco?
What did Jasmine ask Marco to do the next time he was delayed?
WRITE
Write 3 full sentences to explain:
How did Jasmine and Beth keep the café running until Marco arrived?
LISTEN
Listen to the recording and respond in complete sentences.
What did the speaker say?
Do you agree or disagree with the speaker? Why?
