Positive Language
Name one phrase you can use when work feels hard.
“I need help.” Other answers: “I’m frustrated,” “Give me a minute,” or “I need a break.”
After you say “Excuse me,” what should you do before talking?
Wait for the person to respond.
What is the first step in STOP–THINK–SPEAK?
STOP.
You make a mistake and feel frustrated. Give a school-safe phrase that tells what you need.
For example: “I need help,” “I need a break,” or “Give me a minute.”
Name the four steps for getting attention the right way.
LOOK, SAY/SIGNAL, WAIT, TALK.
In PAUSE–CHOOSE–SPEAK, what does CHOOSE mean?
Pick a school-safe phrase that says what you need.
Why is “I need a break” more helpful than yelling when the room feels too noisy?
It tells others what you need in a respectful way and helps them respond.
A staff member is talking to another student. Show or describe how to get the staff member’s attention and wait appropriately.
Look toward the staff member; say or signal “Excuse me”; wait; then calmly explain what you need.
What should you do with your words and body during PAUSE?
Stop your words and body before choosing what to say.
Explain how changing your words can help you communicate the same need without using profanity or insults. Give an example.
Example: Instead of insulting the work, say “This is hard. Can you help me?” The words change, but the need for help stays the same.
You need to tell a peer about a problem, but they are busy talking. Describe a safe, respectful way to get their attention, wait, and then share your message.
Wait for a natural pause if possible; use the peer’s name or say “Excuse me” or “Can I talk to you?”; wait for a response; then explain the problem calmly.
Someone takes your turn. Use PAUSE–CHOOSE–SPEAK to give a calm response.
Pause, choose a phrase such as “Can I have a turn next?”, then say it calmly.
Explain how changing your words can help you communicate the same need without using profanity or insults. Give an example.
Example: Instead of insulting the work, say “This is hard. Can you help me?” The words change, but the need for help stays the same.
You need to tell a peer about a problem, but they are busy talking. Describe a safe, respectful way to get their attention, wait, and then share your message.
Wait for a natural pause if possible; use the peer’s name or say “Excuse me” or “Can I talk to you?”; wait for a response; then explain the problem calmly.
You are corrected about unfinished work and feel upset. Explain how you would use STOP–THINK–SPEAK or PAUSE–CHOOSE–SPEAK, then give a school-safe phrase.
STOP or PAUSE; think or choose a school-safe phrase; speak calmly. Example: “I’m frustrated. Can you help me finish this?”