1. Bob: Pass me your book
   Jim: When I've finished with it.

Q. Is Jim's answer correct?

     

Yes.   'Pass me your book' is an informal request. However, Bob will not agree with the request until he has finished reading. However if the request came from a teacher (for example), then this answer would not be polite.

2. Bob's mother: Could you close the door please. It's getting cold in here.
    Bob: You do it

Q. Is Bob's answer correct?

     

No   Bob's mother made a polite request, and Bob's answer was too short and rude. If he could not close the door he should apologize and say why he can't do it.

3. Policeman: Can I see your driving licence sir?
    Jim: No

Q. Is Jim's answer correct?

     

No   The policeman is giving Jim a direct instruction which he has to follow, even though it sounds like a polite request. If Jim does not do as the policeman says, he will get into trouble.

4. Susan: Jane, can you pass me the salt?
    Jane: Here you are (Jane passes the salt to Susan)

Q. Did Jane do the right thing?

     

Yes  Susan asked for the salt and Jane answered her polite request by passing the salt, and saying 'Here you are' which means 'I am giving something to you'.

5. Susan: Could you lend me your car, please?
    Jane: No sorry, you are not insured

Q. Is Jane's answer correct?

     

Yes   Susan is not insured to drive Jane's car. Jane is correct to refuse Susan's polite request, but she apologises because she has to say 'No'.

1. Use a black pen to fill in this form.

Correct answer: Instruction

Instruction

Request

2. Could I have another cup of tea, please?

Correct answer: Request

Instruction

Request

3. Would you mind telling me the time?

Correct answer: Request

Instruction

Request

4. Keep your tickets with you at all times while in the cinema.

Correct answer: Instruction

Instruction

Request

5. Call me when you get home, okay?

Correct answer: Instruction

Instruction

Request

6. May I take this seat?

Correct answer: Request

Instruction

Request