Student (accusatorially): You took off points because I didn’t follow MLA style.
Me: Yes.
Student: Why?
Me: Did my directions tell you to follow MLA style?
Student: Yes.
Me: Did you follow MLA style?
Student: No.
*Pause*
Student: <Look of expectation>
Me: <Blank stare>
*Pause*
Student: But you took off points for something so small.
Me: So I’m not supposed to expect you to follow directions?
Student: You are.
Me: Can you help me understand why we’re having this conversation?