Chapter 3

Chapter 3

Integrated Speaking

Stating Opinions and Summarizing

Question 5

Practice 1

Conversation

Listen to a conversation as you listen, take notes on the problem and the solution suggested.

M: You all right, Jess? You look upset.

W: Oh hi, Dave. Yeah, I just checked my semester grade online. I have a C right now in my organic chemistry class.

M: A C isn’t so bad.

W: Yes, but I have to maintain a B average to keep my scholarship.

M: Oh. So what’re you going to do?

W: I don’t know. I really need this class for my major.

M: Can you just request to take the class as a pass or fail?

W: What is that again?

M: It means all you have to do is pass the class. It’ll show up on your transcript is a pass. However, it won’t list a specific grade. Therefore, it won’t affect your GPA at all.

W: Oh yes, now I remember. The problem is, pass or fail grades don’t help improve your GPA either. If I ace this upcoming midterm, I could raise my grade in this class to an A-. I choose to take this class as a pass or fail.

M: So basically, if you can ace this next test, you can raise your grade?

W: Exactly.

M: Well, they have free tutoring sessions through the library. Why don’t you get a tutor to help you?

W: That’s an option. But I’m still not sure if they’ll be able to help me to understand the material. It’s complicated stuff to learn. Plus, I’m usually really busy with my job and other classes.