Non-verbal language
They cross their arms tightly, lean back in their chair, and avoid eye contact.
Defensive / Closed off / Upset
Situation:
You’re in a group project and one student keeps talking over everyone and deciding everything without asking.
What are two ways to handle this situation?
Way to Fix It #1:
Say, “Can we hear everyone’s ideas before we decide?”
Way to Fix It #2:
Privately say, “I feel like I haven’t gotten to share yet. Can we take turns?”
Situation:
You take a funny picture of your friend sleeping on the bus with their mouth open. It’s hilarious.
Question: Should you post it?
No — not without permission. It could embarrass them.
Just because something is funny doesn’t mean it’s respectful.
You’re telling a story.
Your friend interrupts you mid-sentence and starts talking about themselves.
You stop talking and look down.
Question:
What would you be thinking in your head?
“They don’t care about what I’m saying.”
or
“Why do I even try to talk?”
“I’m not doing that. End of story.”
Firm / Serious
They take a step backward when someone stands close to them.
Uncomfortable / Wants more personal space
Situation:
You sit down at lunch and your friends are all talking about something you don’t understand. No one includes you.
What are two ways to handle this situation?
Way to Fix It #1:
Ask, “Wait, what are you guys talking about? Fill me in.”
Way to Fix It #2:
Make a related comment like, “Oh yeah, I saw something about that too.”
Situation:
You scored the winning goal in a game and want to post a picture.
Question: Should you post it?
Yes — that’s appropriate and positive.
Posting accomplishments is different from posting someone else’s embarrassing moment.
You show your friend your project.
They say, “Wow… interesting choice,” with a smirk.
Question:
What would you be thinking in your head?
“That didn’t sound like a compliment.”
or
“Are they judging me?”
“Sure. That’s just great.”
Sarcastic
They lean forward, eyes wide, and stop blinking as you tell a story.
Very interested / Shocked
Situation:
You text your friend “Okay.” They respond, “Why are you mad?”
What are two ways to handle this situation?
Way to Fix It #1:
Reply, “I’m not mad! I just meant okay as in sounds good.”
Way to Fix It #2:
Add clarification like, “LOL I promise I’m not mad 😂.”
Situation:
You post: “School is the worst. I hate everyone here.”
Question: Should you post it?
Not appropriate. It’s negative and public.
Why?
Teachers, future employers, and others could see it.
You’re joking around during practice.
The coach stares at you silently with crossed arms.
Question:
What would the coach be thinking in their head?
“Why are they not taking this seriously?”
or
“They need to focus right now.”
“I guess that’s fine.”
Reluctant/Uncertain
They keep glancing at the clock while you’re talking.
Bored / In a rush / Not fully interested
Situation:
A classmate makes a joke about your presentation, and people laugh.
What are two ways to handle this situation?
Way to Fix It #1:
Say calmly, “That wasn’t really funny.”
Way to Fix It #2:
Redirect with confidence: “Anyway, like I was saying…” and continue.
Situation:
You comment “That outfit is wild 😭” under someone’s photo.
Risky — tone could be misinterpreted.
Is that supportive? Sarcastic? Mean?
You tease your friend about something small.
They laugh, but their smile drops quickly after.
Question:
What might they be thinking in their head?
“That actually bothered me.”
or
“I don’t want to seem sensitive.”
“Interesting choice.”
Judgemental/Skeptical
They raise one eyebrow and tilt their head slightly.
Confused / Skeptical
Situation:
You’re telling a story and someone interrupts you mid-sentence.
What are two ways to handle this situation?
Way to Fix It #1:
Say, “Can I finish what I was saying?”
Way to Fix It #2:
Pause, then say, “I’ll finish really quick.”
Situation:
You’re mad at your friend, so you post:
“Some people are fake and don’t deserve real friends.”
Question: Should you post this?
❌ No
It’s indirect, creates drama, and can escalate the situation instead of solving it privately.
Three students are laughing quietly.
You walk over and they stop talking.
Question:
What would you be thinking in your head?
“Were they talking about me?”
or
“Did I just ruin something?”
“I mean… if that’s what you think.”
Dismissive/Defensive