Expected vs. Unexpected
You interrupt a group conversation about dinner to talk about your video game score.
Unexpected - You should wait until it's your turn to talk and stay on topic. You can change the topic to video games once the dinner conversation is over.
Your friend just tripped and spilled their lunch all over the floor. Another friend says, "Well that was graceful!"
Sarcasm! She really meant it was NOT graceful.
You notice your friend is upset but says they're “fine.” What should you do?
Ask if they want to talk privately or let them know you're there for them
You’ve been talking for a long time. What should you do next in the conversation?
Ask the other person a question and give them a chance to talk.
“He spilled the beans about the surprise party.” What does that mean?
He told the secret
You ask your teacher for help when you're confused, even though others seem to understand.
Expected - It is always ok to ask your teacher ok for help. Any time you are confused, you should ask for clarification even if no one else seems confused. Likely, they also are.
Your classmate gets a bad grade and mutters, “Oh great, just what I needed today.”
Sarcasm - A bad grade is NOT what he needed.
You’re working on a group project, and one member isn’t doing their part. What’s the best first step?
Talk to them calmly and ask if they need help or a reminder of the tasks
Someone starts talking about a topic you don’t like. What’s the polite thing to do?
Listen respectfully and politely change the subject later in the conversation.
“The classroom was a zoo.” What does this metaphor suggest?
It was noisy and out of control.
You roll your eyes and sigh loudly when asked to join a group project.
Unexpected - This body language is rude and could hurt your group members' feelings as you are essentially telling them you do not want to work with them.
After waiting an hour in the rain, someone says, "Wow, what a beautiful day!"
Sarcasm - It was NOT a beautiful day.
You accidentally overhear your friend talking about you behind your back. What’s a good way to handle it?
Talk to them about it privately and ask them to talk to you honestly.
You want to join a group conversation that’s already happening. What should you do first?
Listen to what they are talking about and then join in with a related comment.
“This math problem is a piece of cake.” What is this person trying to say?
The math problem is very easy.
You ignore someone's personal space and keep getting too close.
Unexpected - Popping someone's bubble can make them feel uncomfortable.
You tell your friend you forgot your science project, and they reply, “You’re so responsible!”
Sarcasm - You are NOT responsible.
A classmate constantly interrupts you during group discussions. What’s the most respectful way to address it?
Something like, “I’d like to finish my thought, then I’d love to hear yours."
A friend tells you something personal and sad. How should you respond?
Listen quietly, show empathy, and say something supportive like “That sounds really hard."
“She was glowing after getting the good news.” Is this literal or figurative, and what does it mean?
She looked very happy.
You notice someone sitting alone at lunch and ask if they want to join your group.
Expected - Inviting a lonely student to come and join you for lunch is a very kind and compassionate thing to do. You never know, they may be your new best friend!
After being told they can’t go to the party, a teen says, “Best weekend ever!”
Sarcasm - WORST weekend ever!
You're at lunch and see someone sitting alone who looks uncomfortable. What’s a socially smart thing to do?
Invite them to sit with you and include them in on conversation.
During a conversation, the other person keeps looking away and giving short answers. What might that mean?
They are bored, distracted, on a time-crunch, or want to end the conversation.
“His explanation was as clear as mud.” What does that simile mean?
It was not clear and did not make any sense.