FIGURE 2.5. E-mail notifying the instructor about a problem
Although the e-mail documents the group’s past problems, the overall tone and direction of the e-mail focuses on finding a future solution. Jason asks the instructor for advice rather than a solution to the group’s problems. Even if the instructor does not take any action, such an e-mail provides documentation of the team’s problems and can protect responsible team members if any grading disputes come up in the future.