W: Professor Barnes, I’ve run into problems with the outline for my term paper.
I know I’m here outside of the office hours, but I really need to talk with you.
M: Well, (1) ___________________________________________.Come on in and have a seat Sandy. What’s wrong and how can I help?
W: The whole idea seems to be expanding out of control.There’s no way I can cover it all in twenty pages.
M: A good way to start might be to look at your thesis statement.Hmm, I think your problem begins right here.(2) ______________________________________?
W: I understood that it should contain the subject that will be discussed and the approach that you will take in discussing it. Is that right?
M: Yes, it is. But you have to understand that the thesis statement defines the scope of your paper.I warned the class if you make a mistake with your thesis statement,you’ll be in trouble from the very beginning.
W: I remember. And that’s what I’ve done. I’ve made it too broad.I’ve bitten off more than I can chew.
M: I’m afraid so. So, what do you think you can do to save your paper?
W: (3) __________________________________________________.
M: Exactly. But how are you going to do that?
W: I suppose I could examine just one of those technologies;the one that I think will have the greatest impact.
M: Good idea. If you do that,I think you will find your task will become much more manageable.
