Identify the Problem
Ethan starts talking about video games while the teacher is giving instructions. What is the small talk problem?
Talking at the wrong time.
McKale tries to join a conversation, but the group turns away and stops talking. How might Maya feel?
Left out, sad, or embarrassed.
You see a classmate sitting alone at lunch. Give 2 solutions for starting small talk with them. (not the 2 w's-- be specific to this situation)
Ask if you can sit down.
Ask them what they are having for lunch.
Name two safe topics you can use to start a friendly small talk conversation with a peer. (Not weather or weekend)
Their favorite foods, hobbies, or pets
You accidentally interrupted a peer while they were talking about their weekend. What is the best way to repair the conversation?
Apologize quickly (e.g., "Sorry for interrupting!") and hand the floor back by saying, "What were you saying about your weekend?
Lelia has been talking about his favorite movie for 10 minutes without letting anyone else speak. What is the problem?
Hogging the conversation
Paul asks Dawson about his favorite sport, and Dawson's eyes light up as he smiles and uses his device fast. How does Dawson feel?
Excited, happy, or interested.
You start talking to a friend about a movie, but they look bored and keep checking their phone. Give 2 solutions.
Change the topic.
Ask them a question about their day.
You want to start small talk with Ms. Larsen, but they are talking to another adult. What should you do?
Wait quietly nearby for a pause, or come back later when they are free.
You and a classmate have been talking about video games for a while, but the conversation is drying up. How can you smoothly transition to a new topic without making it awkward?
Acknowledge the current topic before introducing a new one (e.g., "That game sounds awesome. Speaking of games, are you playing any sports this weekend?").
Angie says, "Your haircut looks weird," when trying to start a friendly conversation. What is the problem?
Saying something hurtful instead of a nice compliment.
Ali is talking to a classmate, but the classmate keeps looking around the room, taking steps back, and giving one-word answers. How is the classmate feeling?
Uncomfortable, bored, or in a rush.
You want to join two classmates who are talking about weekend plans, but you aren't sure how to start. Give 2 solutions.
Wait for a pause and give a friendly greeting.
Ask a topic-related question like "Did you do anything fun?"
What are two body language signs that show someone is ready and interested in having a conversation with you?
1) Eye contact, 2) Smiling, 3) Body turned toward you, or 4) Nodding.
A classmate shares an opinion during small talk that you strongly disagree with (e.g., "That new movie was terrible!"). How can you share a different opinion politely without starting an argument?
Validate their perspective first, then share yours gently (e.g., "I get why you didn't like it! I actually enjoyed the action scenes, though.").