Student Success – Week 7 Assignment

Resolving a Conflict

Sometimes situations arise in courses (or with instructors) that make you angry or upset, yet you need to resolve them diplomatically. It is important to email your instructor in a way that is professional and not accusatory, while asking for resolution of the conflict.

Pick two of the scenarios below, and write a professional email for each to a fictional instructor about the situation.

Scenario 1

You were in the middle of taking your final exam (which is timed) when the power went out. When the power resumed, the exam time had expired. You were only able to answer a few questions, and have a failing grade on the final. Write a professional email to your instructor explaining the situation, and asking if the exam can be reopened.

Scenario 2

You just looked at your grade on a project; it was much lower grade than you anticipated. You do not understand why your grade was low because your tutor helped you prepare the project. Write a professional email to your instructor asking for clarification on your score.

Scenario 3

Prior to the due date, your instructor approved the late submission of your assignment. When you looked at your grade, points had been deducted due to the late submission. Write a professional email to your instructor inquiring about the late penalty.

Scenario 4

You were reading through the posts of your classmates, and you notice that one of them copied your discussion post – i.e. they plagiarized. Write a professional email to your instructor informing them of the situation. Be sure to provide the name of the fictional student who plagiarized, and explain what they did.

Use the following template when composing your emails:

Subject Line: GID, Your Name, Course Name (Ex: GU101) Topic / Issue Instructor’s Name, My name is ________________________, G00012345… Explain what the issue is. Sincerely, Your Name

The following links may be helpful in the creation of your emails:

You Can Have Constructive Conflict Over Email

14 Basic Tips for Conflict Management via Email

Remember to include the following information at the top of your paper:

Your First and Last Name

GID Number

GU101

Today’s Date

View your assignment rubric.