💛 SELGrade 2Lesson 11
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Practice Respectful Communication

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What you will learn

  • 1Tell the difference between respectful and disrespectful ways to speak
  • 2Explain why respectful communication matters
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Mini Lesson

Did you know that the way you say something can matter just as much as what you say? Words can make people feel safe and heard — or hurt and ignored. Respectful communication means choosing words and actions that show others they are valued.

What is respectful communication?

  • It means speaking kindly, listening carefully, and taking turns talking.
  • Example: "I disagree, but I see what you mean" vs. "That is a terrible idea!"
  • Respectful communication builds trust and keeps friendships strong.

Respectful ways to speak

  • Use a calm, friendly tone — not yelling or mocking.
  • Say "please," "thank you," and "excuse me" when needed.
  • Wait for the other person to finish before you speak.
  • Make eye contact to show you are paying attention.

Disrespectful communication

  • Interrupting, name-calling, rolling your eyes, or ignoring someone.
  • Using a mean or teasing tone even if the words seem okay.
  • Talking behind someone’s back or leaving them out on purpose.

Words to know

Respectful

Treating others as you want to be treated

e.g. I use a respectful voice when I disagree.

Communication

Sharing ideas through words and listening

e.g. Good communication takes turns talking and listening.

Tone

The way your voice sounds, like calm or angry

e.g. I keep a friendly tone in conversations.

Polite

Showing good manners, like saying please and thank you

e.g. Polite words make people feel valued.

Interrupt

To cut someone off while they are speaking

e.g. I try not to interrupt when others talk.

Words that build vs words that breakTwo columns. The left green column lists respectful phrases. The right orange column lists disrespectful behaviors.Words can build or break trustBuilds trust"Please may I...""Thank you!""I hear whatyou are saying.""I disagree, butI see your point.""Excuse me."Breaks trustInterruptingName-callingRolling your eyesYelling or mockingIgnoring someoneMean teasing
Two columns comparing words that build trust with words that break it.
Three steps of respectful communicationA cycle diagram showing three connected steps: Listen, Speak kindly, and Take turns.3 Steps of Respectful CommunicationListenfullySpeakkindlyTake turnsfairly
The three-step cycle: Listen, Speak kindly, Take turns.
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Ask yourself: "Would I feel comfortable if someone spoke to me this way? Am I using words that build or words that break?"

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