How are they feeling?
A friend smiles but their eyes look watery and red.
They might be upset or trying not to cry.
Someone says “That’s great” in a flat, monotone voice.
Are they likely excited?
Probably Not.
Scenario:
Student leans forward toward a friend while talking. Eyes are on the person speaking. Nods occasionally.
What does this body language show?
Interested/engaged ✅
Scenario:
You notice the teacher looks overwhelmed with papers.
Question: What is a kind thing to do?
Offer to help
Classroom
Raise your hand before speaking.
Listen while others are talking.
Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.
Follow directions from the teacher.
Stay in your seat unless told otherwise.
A student rolls their eyes when the teacher assigns homework.
Annoyance, sarcasm, or disrespect.
A friend says “Whatever” with a sharp tone.
What does the tone suggest?
They’re annoyed or upset.
Scenario:
Student crosses arms tightly across their chest. Frowns slightly. Does not make eye contact.How might they be feeling?
Defensive/upset
Scenario:
Everyone laughs at a joke except one student who looks away and becomes very quiet.
Question: What might you consider?
The joke may have hurt them
Hallway / Transition Time
Walk, don’t run.
Respect personal space of others.
Keep your voice at a calm level.
Hold doors open for others politely.
Stay on the correct side of the hallway.
Someone avoids eye contact and looks down during a conversation.
Shy, uncomfortable, embarrassed, or not interested.
Your classmate says “I’m fine” quickly and louder than usual.
What might that signal?
They might not actually be fine.
Scenario:
Student taps foot rapidly. Checks the clock often.How are they feeling?
Anxious or impatient
Scenario: Your friend is unusually quiet while everyone else is talking.
Ask, “Are you okay?”
Invite them to share their idea
Give them space if they need it
Cafeteria
Wait your turn in line.
Use a calm voice.
Clean up after yourself.
A student is about to give a presentation and they are fidgeting with their hands.
Nervous or anxious.
Your classmate says:
“Can you switch seats with me?”
You respond (without looking at them):
“Yeeaaahhh… sureeee…”
How do you really feel?
Annoyed
Scenario:
Student slouches in their chair. Head resting on hand. Eyes half-closed or looking away. How are they feeling?
Bored/disinterested
Scenario: Your group can’t agree on a plan.
Action:
Suggest taking turns sharing ideas
Listen to everyone and pick one idea to try
Ask the teacher for help if needed
The Movies
Speak softly if you need to talk.
Turn off or silence your phone.
Avoid making loud noises that might disturb others.
A student just found out they won an award and are jumping up and down.
Excited or happy.
A student says, “We have a ton of homework tonight.”
Another student replies: “Oh great, just what I needed!”
Are they actually excited.
No
Scenario:
Student slams their hand on the desk. Frowns with eyebrows pulled together. Sighs loudly and looks away. How are they feeling?
Frustrated
Scenario:
A classmate is trying to open a locker or figure out a math problem and looks frustrated.
Ask, “Do you want some help?”
Crossing the street
Always stop at the curb or edge of the street.
Look left, right, then left again before stepping into the street.