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The speaker of the poem might have felt sorry for stepping on Mrs. Jones’ flower. When we make a mistake, we must express regret and apologise for our actions.
Question 36
1.
When we apologise to a friend or a family member, we use informal language. Take turns to apologise for the following situations and respond to the apology.
- (i) You have eaten your brother’s share of sweets.
- (ii) You have broken your sister’s flower craft.
- (iii) You accidentally spilled ink on your mother’s important documents.
- (iv) You forgot to bring your friend’s notebook to the school after borrowing it.
You may use the following phrases given below.
| Phrases for Apology | Phrases to Respond to Apology |
|---|---|
|
• I’m sorry about…
• I’m really sorry… • Please forgive me for… • Sorry, I didn’t mean to… |
• That’s alright.
• It’s no big deal. • No problem. • These things happen. |
How to answer:
Say what you are sorry for, accept responsibility, and give a natural response to the apology.
View Sample Answer
| Situation | Sample apology | Sample response |
|---|---|---|
| (i) | I’m really sorry I ate your share of sweets. I’ll replace them. | That’s alright. Please ask me next time. |
| (ii) | Please forgive me for breaking your flower craft. I’ll help you make another one. | No problem. Let’s make it again. |
| (iii) | I’m really sorry I spilled ink on your important documents. I’ll help replace them. | These things happen. Please be more careful next time. |
| (iv) | Sorry, I forgot to bring your notebook. I’ll bring it tomorrow. | It’s no big deal. Please remember tomorrow. |
Question 37
2.
When we apologise to someone in authority like a Principal or a teacher in a formal setting, we use formal language. Work in pairs and take turns to apologise for the following situations and respond to the apology.
- (i) You did not bring an assignment that was due for submission.
- (ii) You were late to school for the past three days and had to meet the Principal.
- (iii) You did not submit your project work and were asked to explain.
You may use the phrases given below.
| Phrases for Apology | Phrases to Respond to Apology |
|---|---|
|
• I’m extremely sorry for… I promise it won’t happen again.
• I owe you an apology for… I’ll do my best not to repeat it. • I really regret… I assure you that this will never happen again. |
• I accept your apology. Please ensure you…
• I appreciate you saying this, but… • I’m glad you realised your mistake… |
How to answer:
Use respectful language. State the mistake clearly and give a clear assurance that you will correct it.
View Sample Answer
| Situation | Sample formal apology | Sample response |
|---|---|---|
| (i) | Ma’am, I owe you an apology for not bringing the assignment. I will submit it tomorrow and do my best not to repeat this. | I accept your apology. Please ensure that you submit it tomorrow. |
| (ii) | Sir, I’m extremely sorry for being late for the past three days. I have corrected my routine and assure you that this will not happen again. | I’m glad you realised your mistake. Please be punctual from now on. |
| (iii) | Ma’am, I really regret not submitting my project on time. I take responsibility and request one final day to complete it. | I appreciate you saying this, but please meet the revised deadline. |
