Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
- Request vacation days politely and professionally while managing your workload.
Exercise 1
Situation
Direction: Read the situation for today's lesson
Alex has been working hard and wants to take a few days off next month. Before asking, he checks his schedule and makes sure his main tasks can be covered. He knows Mr. Miller prefers clear and short messages, so Alex plans to explain his request quickly. He also talks with Sarah to see if she can support some of his work and prepares simple instructions for Omar. Alex wants to show responsibility while asking for his vacation.
Exercise 2
Vocabulary
Direction: Listen and repeat after your tutor
Availability
Noun
/əˌveɪ.ləˈbɪl.ə.ti/
Meaning:
The time when someone is free or able to work.
- Alex checks his availability before choosing his vacation dates.
Take some time off
Idiom
/teɪk sʌm taɪm ɔf/
Meaning:
To rest by not working for a short period.
- Alex plans to take some time off in April.
Cover for
Phrasal Verb
/ˈkʌv.ər fɔːr/
Meaning:
To do someone’s job while they are away.
- Sarah agrees to cover for Alex during his vacation.
I’d like to request a few days off
Phrase
IPA
Meaning:
A polite way to ask for vacation days.
- Alex says, 'I’d like to request a few days off next month.'
Exercise 3
Office Conversation
Direction: Read the conversation aloud with your teacher.
Situation:
Alex speaks with Mr. Miller about his vacation request.
Good morning, Mr. Miller. I’d like to request a few days off next month.
Alex
What are the dates?
Mr. Miller
From April 12th to April 16th.
Alex
Is your work covered?
Mr. Miller
Yes, Sarah will cover for me, and I’ll prepare notes for Omar.
Alex
Good. Your availability before then is fine?
Mr. Miller
Yes, everything will be done on time.
Alex
Approved. Please send it by email.
Mr. Miller
Check Understanding
Direction: Answer the questions about the conversation.
1. What does Alex want to request?
2. Who will cover for Alex?
3. What does Mr. Miller ask Alex to do at the end?
Exercise 4
Study Guide
Direction: Read the study manual aloud.
Requesting vacation days is a normal and important part of working life. First, choose your dates early and check your workload. Make sure important tasks are finished or can be handled by someone else. When you speak to your manager, be polite and clear. Use simple phrases like “I’d like to request a few days off.” Give the exact dates and show that your work will not be affected.
It is helpful to suggest who can cover for you and explain how you will prepare your tasks. This shows responsibility and respect for your team. Keep your message short, especially if your manager is busy. After getting approval, send a short email to confirm the dates. Good planning makes vacation requests easy and professional, and it helps your workplace stay organized while you are away.
Exercise 5
Choose the Correct Answer
Direction: Direction: Select the correct answer from the options A, B, or C.
1. Alex asks ___ vacation days in April.
A. to
B. for
C. at
2. He sends ___ email to confirm his request.
A. a
B. an
C. the
3. Sarah ___ to cover for Alex.
A. agree
B. agrees
C. agreeing
4. Next month, Alex ___ a few days off.
A. took
B. takes
C. will take
5. Alex prepares notes so ___ can help.
A. he
B. him
C. they
6. Alex speaks ___ and clearly with his manager.
A. polite
B. politely
C. politeness
7. Taking time off is ___ normal part of work life.
A. a
B. an
C. the
8. Sarah will ___ for Alex while he is away.
A. cover
B. take
C. make
Exercise 6
Discussion
Direction: Discuss these questions to practice speaking and share experiences.
1. How do you usually ask for vacation days at work?
2. When is the best time to request time off?
3. What do you say to sound polite and professional?
4. How do you prepare your work before a vacation?
5. Who can cover for you when you are away?
6. Where do you write your vacation request, email or chat?
7. What problems can happen if you do not plan your vacation well?
8. Why is it important to tell your team about your vacation early?
