【留学・国際大学で差をつける】英語で教授・TAとスムーズに話せる30の超実用フレーズ

Freshman (Mina): Hi, are you the TA for this class?

TA (Chris): Yes, I am! My name is Chris. How can I help you?

Mina: I’m Mina. I’m a new student, and I have a question about the first assignment. I’m not sure what the professor means by “critical analysis.” Could you give me some clarification?

Chris: Of course! “Critical analysis” means you should not just summarize the reading, but also discuss your own thoughts and evaluate the author’s arguments. If you want, I can show you an example during my office hours.

Mina: That would be great! When are your office hours?

Chris: My office hours are Mondays and Wednesdays from 2 to 4 p.m. in Room 305. You don’t need an appointment—just drop by.

Mina: Thank you! Also, if I need more time for an assignment, how can I request an extension?

Chris: If you need an extension, email the professor as soon as possible and explain your situation. You can cc me on the email if you want.

Mina: Thanks, Chris. One last thing—will we get feedback on our assignments?

Chris: Yes, you’ll get written feedback on each assignment, and I’m happy to discuss it with you if you have questions.

Mina: Awesome. I really appreciate your help!

Chris: You’re welcome, Mina! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything.

Student (Anna): Hi, Professor Miller. Do you have a moment? I’d like to ask for some feedback on my last essay.

Professor Miller: Of course, Anna. I actually left some comments in the margin, but if you’d like more detailed feedback, you can come to my office hours tomorrow.

Anna: Thank you! I’ll definitely attend office hours. Also, I was wondering if I could request an extensionfor the next assignment. I’ve been sick this week and need a little more time.

Professor Miller: I understand. Please submit a request through the online system, and I’ll review it. If you have a doctor’s note, attach it as well.

Anna: Will do. By the way, I’m a bit confused about the syllabus—could you clarify the attendance policyfor this class?

Professor Miller: Certainly. Attendance is required for at least 80% of the classes. If you have any more questions, feel free to email me or ask your TA.

Anna: Thank you so much. One last thing—if I ever need a recommendation letter for an internship, would you be willing to write one for me?

Professor Miller: Absolutely, Anna. Just make an appointment with me when the time comes, and we can discuss the details.

Anna: Thank you, Professor! I really appreciate your help.

Student (David): Hello, Professor Smith. Do you have a moment? I’d like to talk about my grade on the final exam.

Professor Smith: Of course, David. What’s your concern?

David: I reviewed the grading criteria and my answers, and I think there may have been a mistake in the way my essay was scored. I’d like to file a grade appeal.

Professor Smith: I see. Did you already submit a grade appeal form through the online system?

David: Not yet. I wanted to ask you first. Should I provide supporting evidence when I submit the form?

Professor Smith: Yes, please explain the reason for your appeal in detail and attach any supporting evidence—for example, your essay draft or notes showing your work. You can also request a re-evaluation of specific questions if you think there was a scoring error.

David: Thank you. How long does it usually take to receive a response regarding my appeal?

Professor Smith: You should await the decision for about one to two weeks. You’ll get an email once the review is complete.

David: Thank you very much for your help, Professor Smith.

Professor Smith: You’re welcome, David. Let me know if you have any more questions.

Guide for New Students: Using TA Support, Office Hours, Syllabus Clarification, and Grade Appeal

Teaching Assistants (TA)

A TA (Teaching Assistant) is a graduate or advanced undergraduate student who helps the professor with class activities and supports students. You can ask a TA questions about lectures, assignments, or anything you don’t understand. If you are unsure about a topic, don’t hesitate to reach out to your TA for help.

Example:
“If you have trouble with the homework, you can ask the TA for clarification.”

Office Hours

Office hours are special times when your professor or TA is available to meet with students. You can find the schedule for office hours in the syllabus or on the course website. Use office hours to ask questions about lectures, get help with assignments, or discuss concerns about the class.

Example:
“You should attend office hours if you have questions about the material or need feedback on your work.”

Syllabus Clarification

The syllabus is a document that explains the course schedule, assignment deadlines, grading policy, and other important information. If you don’t understand something in the syllabus, you can ask your professor or TA for clarification.

Useful phrases:

• “Could you clarify the grading policy in the syllabus?”
• “I’d like to ask for clarification about the assignment requirements.”

Grade Appeal

If you believe there is a mistake in your grade or you were graded unfairly, you have the right to file a grade appeal.
To do this:

1. Review the grading criteria in the syllabus.
2. Contact your professor or TA to discuss your concerns.
3. If necessary, submit a grade appeal form and provide supporting evidence (such as your assignment or exam).
4. Explain the reason for your appeal clearly and politely.
5. Await the decision and check your email for a response.

Example:
“I would like to file a grade appeal for my midterm exam. Could you please review my answers and the grading criteria?”

Tips for Success

• Don’t be afraid to ask your TA or professor for help—they are there to support you.
• Use office hours regularly, even if you don’t have a problem.
• Always read the syllabus carefully and ask for clarification if you’re unsure about anything.
• If you need to file a grade appeal, be respectful and provide clear reasons and evidence.