Group Work Issues
You’re assigned to work in a group, but one member keeps ignoring your ideas.
Politely ask to share your ideas and suggest that everyone gets a turn.
You have something to say but someone keeps interrupting you.
Wait for a pause, then say, “I’d like to finish my thought.”
A classmate blames you for something you didn’t do.
Calmly explain your side and ask to talk with a teacher or adult if needed.
You wave at someone who doesn’t wave back.
Don’t overthink it—just play it off and move on.
You want to sit with someone at lunch but don’t know how to ask.
Walk over and say, “Mind if I sit here?” or “Hey, is this spot open?”
You’re worried your group won’t finish the project on time.
Suggest making a plan with deadlines for each part of the project.
You’re nervous to share your answer in front of the class.
Try writing it down first, or ask to share with a partner before speaking aloud.
A rumor is going around about you.
Don’t spread it further. Talk to a trusted adult or counselor for help.
You say something and no one responds.
Stay calm, switch topics, or ask a follow-up question to keep the conversation going.
You invited a friend to hang out and they said no.
Respect their response and say, “No problem—maybe another time.”
One person in your group is doing all the work and won’t let others help.
Say, “I’d really like to help—can I take on this part of the project?”
A classmate laughs at your answer.
Stay calm and say, “That wasn’t very kind,” or choose to ignore and move on.
You and a friend had a disagreement and now it’s awkward.
Reach out and say, “Can we talk about what happened?”
You walk up to a group and they stop talking.
Say, “Hey, what’s up?” to try to join in, or walk away if it feels unfriendly.
A friend keeps canceling plans last-minute.
Ask if something is going on and talk about how it makes you feel.
You don’t get along with someone in your assigned group.
Stay respectful, focus on the task, and ask the teacher for support if needed.
The teacher calls on you and you don’t know the answer.
Say, “I’m not sure, but I think it might be…” or ask to come back to it.
Someone is giving you dirty looks or acting cold.
Don’t react with anger—check in with them if you feel safe, or ignore and move on.
You try to make a joke but no one laughs.
Smile and say, “Okay, tough crowd!” and move on casually.
You want to get to know someone better but aren’t sure how to start.
Ask questions about their interests or classes to start a friendly conversation.
You missed a group meeting and they moved on without you.
Apologize, ask for an update, and offer to catch up or take on extra tasks.
You strongly disagree with someone’s opinion.
Say, “I see it differently. Can I explain my point of view?”
A friend made fun of you in front of others.
Let them know privately that it hurt your feelings and ask them not to do it again.
You forget someone’s name while talking to them.
Politely ask, “Can you remind me your name again?” Most people understand.
Your friend is hanging out with someone who doesn’t treat you well.
Talk to your friend honestly and set boundaries if needed.