SkillStrat Consulting
This worksheet is designed to simulate a real-life interaction between you and a student facing challenges. Through this activity, you will explore various communication strategies, observe their potential impacts, and reflect on the most effective approaches for fostering a supportive classroom environment.
Use this guide to navigate through the worksheet:
Student Profile: Jason
Scenario Setup:
Today, after class, you find Jason sitting alone, staring out the window instead of submitting his assignment along with his peers as he typically would. Concerned about this change, you decide to approach him.
Instructions: Choose how you would initially approach Jason from the options below. Mark your choice and note why you chose it.
Based on your initial response, read and record Jason’s reaction from the predicted outcomes.
Jason looks up sharply, slightly defensive, "I'm just tired, that’s all. I’ll try to focus more."
Jason shrugs noncommittally, "Yeah, I guess I need to catch up a bit."
Jason offers a weak smile, "Thanks, I guess I do need some help."
Jason hesitates, then opens up, "It's been hard at home lately, and I’m not sure how to deal with it."
Instructions: Choose your follow-up approach based on Jason’s reaction.
Based on your follow-up response, observe Jason’s final reaction.
Jason complies with the plan but expresses a lingering dissatisfaction, "I’ll try that plan, but honestly, I wish it felt like you were really listening to what I’m going through, not just pushing me to perform better."
Jason agrees to the plan with passive acceptance, "I’ll do my best to keep up, though I sometimes wish you could see it’s more than just schoolwork that’s bothering me."
Jason feels momentarily comforted but still somewhat unsupported, "Thanks for your concern; it’s nice to know you care. But sometimes, I feel like you're sorry for me rather than actually helping me find ways to deal with everything."
Jason seems genuinely relieved and appreciative, expressing a positive outlook, "Thank you for understanding and taking the time to really listen. It’s comforting to have someone who not only hears but responds to what I’m dealing with. This approach makes me feel supported and not just seen as a problem to be fixed."
