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Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
- Follow company procedures for planned and unplanned absences clearly and professionally.
Exercise 1
Situation
Direction: Read the situation for today's lesson
Alex learns that the company has clear rules for absences. For planned absences, he must inform his manager in advance and submit a request. For unplanned absences, he must notify his manager as soon as possible and update the team. One morning, Alex wakes up feeling sick. He quickly sends a message to Mr. Miller with the main point first and explains his situation. He also informs Sarah and leaves clear instructions for Omar so the work continues smoothly.
Exercise 2
Vocabulary
Direction: Listen and repeat after your tutor
Procedure
Noun
/prəˈsiːdʒər/
Meaning:
An official way of doing something in a company.
- Please follow the absence procedure when you are sick.
By the book
Idiom
/baɪ ðə bʊk/
Meaning:
Doing something exactly according to the rules.
- Alex handled his absence by the book.
Check in
Phrasal Verb
/tʃek ɪn/
Meaning:
To contact someone to give an update.
- He checked in with his manager before 8 a.m.
As soon as possible
Phrase
IPA
Meaning:
Without delay.
- Please inform HR as soon as possible.
Exercise 3
Office Conversation
Direction: Read the conversation aloud with your teacher.
Situation:
Anna introduces herself to a new colleague at work.
Good morning, Mr. Miller. I wanted to check in quickly.
Alex
What’s the situation, Alex?
Mr. Miller
I’m feeling unwell and won’t be able to come in today.
Alex
Did you follow the procedure?
Mr. Miller
Yes, I emailed HR and informed Sarah.
Alex
Good. Thanks for handling it by the book.
Mr. Miller
I’ll update you as soon as possible if anything changes.
Alex
That works. Rest and feel better.
Mr. Miller
Check Understanding
Direction: Answer the questions about the conversation.
1. Why is Alex absent today?
2. Who did Alex inform about his absence?
3. What does Mr. Miller think about how Alex handled it?
Exercise 4
Study Guide
Direction: Read the study manual aloud.
Every company has rules for handling absences, and following them shows professionalism. For planned absences, inform your manager early and submit the required request. Make sure your tasks are organized and someone can cover urgent work. For unplanned absences, contact your manager as soon as possible. Give the main point first, such as, “I’m sick and can’t come in today.”
Then explain briefly and share any updates. Always check in using the correct channel, such as email, phone, or company app. It is also helpful to inform your team so they know your status. Handling absences by the book builds trust and shows responsibility. Clear communication helps avoid confusion and keeps work moving smoothly, even when you are not in the office.
Exercise 5
Choose the Correct Answer
Direction: Direction: Select the correct answer from the options A, B, or C.
1. Alex checks ___ with his manager before 8 a.m.
A. in
B. on
C. at
2. He followed ___ procedure for absences.
A. a
B. an
C. the
3. Alex ___ his manager as soon as possible.
A. inform
B. informs
C. informing
4. He ___ already emailed HR this morning.
A. has
B. will
C. is
5. Sarah thanked ___ for the update.
A. he
B. him
C. his
6. Alex explained the situation ___ and clearly.
A. quick
B. quickly
C. quickness
7. This is ___ important rule to follow.
A. a
B. an
C. the
8. Alex wants to handle everything ___ the book.
A. by
B. in
C. on
Exercise 6
Discussion
Direction: Discuss these questions to practice speaking and share experiences.
1. How do you inform your manager about a planned absence?
2. When do you contact your manager for an unplanned absence?
3. What information do you give first when reporting an absence?
4. How do you make sure your team knows you are absent?
5. Where do you usually find company absence procedures?
6. How does following procedures help your workplace?
7. What do you do if your manager does not answer immediately?
8. How do you feel when you handle absences in a professional way?
