Perspective Taking (What might they be thinking?)
You accidentally bump a classmate in the hallway and don’t say anything. What might they be thinking?
They might think you were ignoring them or being rude.
A teacher asks someone to stop talking during directions. Who is the “helper” and who is the “listener”?
Teacher = helper; Student = listener.
You think: “This class is boring.” Should you say it or keep it in your head?
Someone is tapping their pencil.
Annoying
A peer is upset and pacing.
Give space, and/or ask if they want help.
Your friend looks frustrated during group work and keeps erasing their work. What might they be feeling?
They may be feeling overwhelmed, annoyed, or stuck.
A student is disrupting class while others are trying to work. Who is affected?
The whole class, teacher, and the student themselves.
You think: “I really like your hoodie.” Say it or think it?
Say it! It's nice and appropriate
The wifi is slow at school today
Inconvenience
Someone interrupts you unintentionally.
Say: “It’s okay, go ahead.” or “I’d like to finish my thought.”
You get chosen to answer in class a lot. Others start sighing. What might they think?
They might feel you’re taking over or not giving others a chance.
Two students argue over a basketball call at recess. Who are the two main roles?
The players involved in the disagreement.
You think: “You talk too much.” Say it or think it?
Think it
You forgot your Chromebook at home.
Inconvenience (problem you can solve with support).
Group member isn’t doing their part.
Ask: “How can we divide this so it feels fair for everyone?”
A peer walks away while you’re talking. What could be their reason?
They may be confused, tired, overwhelmed, or need a break—not necessarily upset with you.
A friend shares something personal and you interrupt with your own story. Who is the speaker and listener supposed to be?
Friend = speaker; You = listener.
You think: “I need help with this assignment.” Say it or think it?
Say it
A friend calls you a mean name.
Problem (needs to be addressed).
You feel yourself getting frustrated.
Take a breath/break, use a coping strategy before responding.
You tell a joke, but no one laughs. How could others be interpreting that moment?
They may not understand the joke, or the timing may feel off—not that they dislike you.
Someone is presenting, and a peer whispers to another. What are everyone’s roles?
Presenter = speaker; Class = listeners; Whisperers = distractions.
You think: “Your answer doesn’t make sense.” What is a filtered way to say it kindly?
“Can you explain how you got that? I’m a little confused.”
There is a fire at school.
Big problem (safety issue).
You disagree with someone in class.
Say your opinion respectfully: “I see it differently. Here’s why…”