Your friend gets a bad haircut and you say: “That looks really bad.” Instructions: Is this response appropriate? (Yes / No) Explain why it may or may not be appropriate. Suggest a better response.
❌ Not appropriate Why: Could hurt feelings ✔ Better: “It’s different—do you like it?” Task: Say a better response OR add a comment/question
Teacher says: “Oh great, another late assignment.” Instructions: Is this response appropriate? (Yes / No) Explain why it may or may not be appropriate. Suggest a better response.
Appropriate? ❌ Why: Sarcastic / Teacher is unhappy Better Response: “I’m sorry I’m late, I’ll do better next time.”
A student stayed up late, missed the bus, and arrived late. Teacher said: “Nice of you to join us.” Instructions: Is this response appropriate? (Yes / No) Explain why it may or may not be appropriate. Suggest a better response.
Appropriate? ❌ Why: Sarcasm / Not a literal compliment Better Response: “Sorry for being late, it won’t happen again.”
Someone invites you somewhere and you say: “That sounds lame.” Instructions: Is this response appropriate? (Yes / No) Explain why it may or may not be appropriate. Suggest a better response.
Appropriate? ❌ Why: Dismissive / Rude Better Response: “I can’t go, but thanks for inviting me.”
Someone says: “I just LOVE when my phone dies.” Instructions: Is this response appropriate? (Yes / No) Explain why it may or may not be appropriate. Suggest a better response.
Appropriate? ❌ Why: Sarcasm / Means they are annoyed Better Response: “Ugh, that’s frustrating!”
A student dropped their lunch. A friend said: “Great start to your day.” Instructions: Is this response appropriate? (Yes / No) Explain why it may or may not be appropriate. Suggest a better response.
Appropriate? ❌ Why: Sarcasm / Could be confusing Better Response: “Oh no! Want help cleaning it up?”
You interrupt someone and say: “That’s boring.” Instructions: Is this response appropriate? (Yes / No) Explain why it may or may not be appropriate. Suggest a better response.
Appropriate? ❌ Why: Disrespectful Better Response: “Can I add something?”
Teacher says: “Don’t all volunteer at once.” Instructions: Is this response appropriate? (Yes / No) Explain why it may or may not be appropriate. Suggest a better response.
Appropriate? ✔ Why: Teacher is giving instructions / indirect request Better Response: N/A (appropriate)
A student studied hard, got a C, and a friend said: “At least you passed.” Instructions: Is this response appropriate? (Yes / No) Explain why it may or may not be appropriate. Suggest a better response.
Appropriate? ✔ (can be considered supportive) Why: Trying to be positive, but may sound dismissive Better Response: “I know you worked hard, maybe next time w
A friend shares good news and you say: “Okay?” Instructions: Is this response appropriate? (Yes / No) Explain why it may or may not be appropriate. Suggest a better response.
Appropriate? ❌ Why: Shows disinterest Better Response: “That’s awesome! Tell me more!”
Someone says: “Wow, you’re really early…” (but you are late). Instructions: Is this response appropriate? (Yes / No) Explain why it may or may not be appropriate. Suggest a better response.
Appropriate? ❌ Why: Sarcasm / Opposite of literal meaning Better Response: “I’m sorry I’m late!”
A student rushed homework. The teacher said: “I can tell you took your time.” Instructions: Is this response appropriate? (Yes / No) Explain why it may or may not be appropriate. Suggest a better response.
Appropriate? ❌ Why: Sarcasm / Opposite of literal meaning Better Response: “I need to slow down and focus next time.”
Someone asks for help and you say: “Figure it out yourself.” Instructions: Is this response appropriate? (Yes / No) Explain why it may or may not be appropriate. Suggest a better response.
Appropriate? ❌ Why: Rude / Unhelpful Better Response: “I can help” or “Let me show you.”
Friend says: “Yeah, because that makes total sense…” Instructions: Is this response appropriate? (Yes / No) Explain why it may or may not be appropriate. Suggest a better response.
Appropriate? ❌ Why: Sarcasm / Shows disbelief Better Response: “Hmm, I don’t understand—can you explain?”
A student forgot their presentation and said, “Oops.” Teacher responded, “Very responsible.” Instructions: Is this response appropriate? (Yes / No) Explain why it may or may not be appropriate. Suggest a better response.
Appropriate? ❌ Why: Sarcasm / Opposite meaning Better Response: “I’ll prepare better next time.”
