In this scenario, assume the role of a student. You have read assignment details in your
course syllabus, but you are still unsure what to do. Think about how you would approach
your instructor versus how you would approach a classmate to receive more information
about the assignment.
Well, I know what I would do in each case, but the question is what YOU would do.
How would you ask a classmate for clarification?
How would you ask the teacher for clarification?
What are the differences in your two approaches?
I would say to the instructor that I've been having problems with this assignment and would like to know if I could talk to her after class. To see if he or she can explain it to me in a easier way. If it was classmate I would ask them if they understood the assignment and if they didn't mine could they expalin it to me.
As a student, when faced with uncertainty about an assignment, it's essential to seek clarification from either the instructor or a classmate. Here's how you can approach each of them:
1. Approaching the Instructor:
- Review the assignment details in your course syllabus thoroughly before reaching out, making sure you understand the overall objective and requirements.
- Formulate specific questions or points of confusion to address with your instructor.
- Schedule a meeting or visit the instructor during office hours, showing your commitment to understanding the assignment.
- Begin the conversation by expressing your interest in the assignment and your desire to excel.
- Politely explain the specific areas or instructions you find unclear and ask for clarification.
- Actively listen to the instructor's response, take notes if necessary, and seek further explanation if needed.
- Thank the instructor for their time and guidance, and make sure to follow up to ensure you've understood the assignment correctly.
2. Approaching a Classmate:
- Choose a classmate whom you believe understands the assignment or has a strong grasp of the course material.
- Begin by showing your respect and seeking their assistance.
- Ask if they have a few minutes to spare and if you could discuss the assignment with them.
- Share your understanding of the assignment, explaining the parts that are unclear to you.
- It's important to outline your own effort in attempting to understand the assignment before seeking their help.
- Listen attentively to their perspective, asking follow-up questions to get a better grasp of the assignment.
- Take notes or request permission to record the discussion for future reference.
- Express your gratitude for their help and consider offering assistance to them with another assignment or topic if appropriate.
Remember, while both the instructor and your classmates can provide assistance, it's crucial to engage in these conversations with a respectful and proactive attitude.