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Lesson 14

Reporting Lateness
Daily Office Basics.png

B2

Learning Objectives

 By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:​​

    Inform your team politely and clearly when you will be late.
Exercise 1
Situation

Direction: Read the situation for today's lesson 

On his way to work, Alex gets stuck in heavy traffic because of an accident on the highway. He realizes he will arrive about 20 minutes late. Knowing Mr. Miller prefers quick and direct updates, Alex sends a short message with the reason and his new arrival time. He also informs Sarah so she can help start the morning meeting if needed, and he tells Omar what to work on until he arrives. Alex wants to show responsibility and good communication even when he is late.

Exercise 2

Vocabulary

Direction:  Listen and repeat after your tutor

Stunning 

adjective

IPA
Meaning:

​extremely impressive or attractive​

  •   she looked stunning

Stunning 

adjective

IPA
Meaning:

​extremely impressive or attractive​

  •   she looked stunning

Stunning 

adjective

IPA
Meaning:

​extremely impressive or attractive​

  •   she looked stunning

Stunning 

adjective

IPA
Meaning:

​extremely impressive or attractive​

  •   she looked stunning

Exercise 3

Office Conversation 

Direction:  Read the conversation aloud with your teacher.

Situation:

Anna introduces herself to a new colleague at work.

Mr Miller.png

Hi! I’m Carlos.

Student 1

Mr Miller.png

Hello Carlos! I’m Mia.

Student 2

Mr Miller.png

Nice to meet you, Mia.

Student 3

Mr Miller.png

Nice to meet you too.

Student 4

Mr Miller.png

How old are you?

Student 5

Mr Miller.png

I’m 21. And you?

Student 6

Mr Miller.png

 I’m 22. Where are you from?

Student 7

Mr Miller.png

 I’m from Spain. What do you do?

Student 8

Check Understanding

Direction: Answer the questions about the conversation. 

1. Where does the conversation happen?
2. What is the girl’s name?
3. Where is Mark from?

Exercise 4

Study Guide

Direction:  Read the study manual aloud. 

Being late can happen to anyone, but how you report it is very important. As soon as you know you will be late, inform your manager and your team. Use a short and polite message. Clearly explain the reason, such as traffic or a delay, and give an estimated arrival time. Simple phrases like “I’m running late” and “I’ll be there in about 15 minutes” sound natural and professional.

If possible, explain how your work will still be handled. For example, say who can start a meeting or manage tasks until you arrive. This shows responsibility and teamwork. Avoid long excuses and stay focused on the main point. Quick and honest communication helps build trust and shows that you respect your team’s time.

Exercise 5
Choose the Correct Answer

Direction: Direction: Select the correct answer from the options A, B, or C.

    1. Alex is late ___ traffic.

    A. at
    B. for
    C. because of

    2. He sends ___ message to his manager.

    A. a
    B. an
    C. the

    3. Alex ___ running late today.

    A. are
    B. is
    C. be

    4. He ___ arrive in about 20 minutes.

    A. will
    B. did
    C. has

    5. Alex tells ___ that he is late.

    A. they
    B. them
    C. their

    6. Alex explains the problem ___ and politely.

    A. clear
    B. clearly
    C. clearness

    7. Reporting lateness is ___ important habit at work.

    A. a
    B. an
    C. the

    8. Alex will ___ his team know about the delay.

    A. make
    B. let
    C. take
Exercise 6
Discussion

Direction: Discuss these questions to practice speaking and share experiences.


    1. How do you usually report being late to work?

    2. When should you send a message if you know you will be late?

    3. What information do you include in your message?

    4. How do you explain traffic problems at work?

    5. Who do you inform first, your manager or your team?

    6. Where do you usually send your message, email or chat?

    7. What happens if you do not report your lateness?

    8. How do you help your team when you arrive late?
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