NARRATOR：

Listen to a conversation between two students.

MALE STUDENT：

[w noticeable lack of enthusiasm] Hey, Sally-I just got the first draft of my research paper back from Professor Stone.

FEMALE STUDENT：

Just now? I got mine back a few days ago.

MALE STUDENT：

Yeah. Everyone else in the class that I know of got theirs a few days ago too.

FEMALE STUDENT：

[worried tone] But the deadline-you're running out of time.

MALE STUDENT：

Yeah. I'm worried.

I only have one day to review all his comments and write my final draft.

He made a lot of suggestions.

FEMALE STUDENT：

You should definitely ask Professor Stone for a deadline extension.

He should take some responsibility for the situation. It is sort of his fault you won't have much time to work on it before the due date.

MALE STUDENT：

I've thought about that. But...

would he think I was being pushy, or criticizing him for not getting the paper back to me right away?

[sigh] I don't want to offend him.

FEMALE STUDENT：

True, but it's your grade we're talking about.

You've got a legitimate concern.

But it's understandable if you're uncomfortable asking.

MALE STUDENT：

Yeah, I'm in a tough spot.

FEMALE STUDENT：

You know, you could always just do your best with the time you have left.

You're a good student;

I bet you can finish it quickly-work really fast-and it'll still turn out good.

MALE STUDENT：

[musing] Do my best with the time I have left...

Well, if I worked really hard, I imagine I might do OK. But

I'd have to be sure to deal with all his comments.

I need a good grade.