Communication Skills
When speaking to a teacher about a problem, this technique involves restating what they said to make sure you understand.
What is active listening (or paraphrasing)?
This is the first thing you should do when you feel angry or upset during a conflict.
What is take a break (or take deep breaths/calm down)?
If a friend excludes you from plans, this is a healthy first step to address it.
What is talk to them privately about how it made you feel?
If you don't understand a teacher's feedback on your work, you should do this.
What is ask them to explain it further?
This is something you should always do when someone tells you their personal information.
What is keep it confidential (or respect their privacy)?
Using "I" statements like "I feel frustrated when..." is better than saying "You always..." because it does this.
What is express your feelings without blaming?
When both people give up something they want to reach an agreement, this is called...
What is compromise?
When two peers are in conflict, this neutral person can help them work it out fairly.
What is a peer mediator (or teacher/counselor)?
This is the appropriate time and place to discuss a grade or assignment concern with a teacher.
What is after class, during office hours, or before/after school (not during class or in front of peers)?
If a peer or teacher makes you feel uncomfortable, this is what you should do.
What is tell them to stop (or tell a trusted adult)?
This is the best tone of voice to use when addressing a conflict with a peer or teacher.
What is calm and respectful (or neutral)?
Instead of yelling or walking away, this approach involves finding a solution that works for both people.
What is collaboration (or problem-solving together)?
This is what you should do if a peer spreads rumors about you instead of spreading them further.
What is talk to the person directly (or tell a trusted adult/don't participate)?
If a teacher seems upset with you, this approach shows maturity and respect.
What is apologize if you made a mistake (or ask what's wrong/listen)?
This is the difference between healthy disagreement and disrespect.
What is you can disagree respectfully without being rude or insulting?
When you disagree with a teacher's decision, this step should come before arguing your point.
What is ask for clarification (or listen to their reasoning)?
If you and a peer can't resolve a conflict alone, you should involve this person to help mediate.
What is a teacher, counselor, or trusted adult?
When a peer pressures you to do something you're uncomfortable with, this word is your most powerful tool.
What is "no" (or using assertive communication)?
Instead of saying "This is boring," this is how you might respectfully express that you're struggling with the material.
What is "I'm having trouble understanding this—can you help me?"?
When someone apologizes to you, this is the mature response.
What is accept the apology gracefully (or forgive them)?
This communication method—using email or a note instead of face-to-face—can sometimes backfire during conflict because it lacks this.
What is tone (or body language/facial expressions)?
This strategy involves looking at the situation from the other person's perspective to understand their feelings and needs.
What is empathy (or perspective-taking)?
This is the best way to handle jealousy or competition with a peer while maintaining the friendship.
What is celebrate their successes (or focus on your own growth/talk about your feelings)?
When a teacher gives you critical feedback, this mindset helps you grow instead of feeling defensive.
What is viewing it as an opportunity to improve (or staying open-minded)?
This boundary is important to maintain even when you're close with a teacher or peer.
What is professional distance (or understanding appropriate relationships)?