Saying “No” Respectfully

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Saying “No” Respectfully

About This Video

Saying No Respectfully teaches learners how to give a clear and respectful answer when they do not want to do something, feel uncomfortable, are too busy, or need to stay safe. This video models simple phrases such as “No, thank you,” “I can’t do that,” and “I’m not comfortable with that.” Learners also practice repeating an answer, asking for help, and respecting when other people say no.

Learning Objectives

After watching this video, learners will:

  1. Identify the key communication or relationship skill presented in saying “no” respectfully.
  2. Distinguish helpful, respectful responses from responses that may create a problem.
  3. Use appropriate words or actions to apply the skill in an everyday situation.

Resources for This Video

Use these resources to extend learning and build communication skills.

A digital guide with key concepts, visual supports, and review questions.

View Learning Guide

Clinician & Educator Supports

Grade 8
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.8.1 – Participate effectively in collaborative discussions, building on others’ ideas and expressing ideas clearly.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.8.6 – Adapt speech to different contexts and tasks, using formal English when appropriate.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.8.3 – Use knowledge of language to make effective choices for meaning, style, and comprehension.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.8.5 – Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.

Grades 9–10
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.9-10.1 – Participate effectively in collaborative discussions, building on others’ ideas and expressing ideas clearly and persuasively.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.9-10.6 – Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, using formal English when appropriate.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.9-10.3 – Apply knowledge of language to understand how language functions in different contexts and make effective choices for meaning and style.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.9-10.5 – Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.

Grades 11–12
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.11-12.1 – Participate effectively in collaborative discussions, building on others’ ideas and expressing ideas clearly and persuasively.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.11-12.6 – Adapt speech to a variety of contexts and tasks, demonstrating command of formal English when appropriate.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.11-12.3 – Apply knowledge of language to understand how language functions in different contexts and make effective choices for meaning and style.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.11-12.5 – Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.

  • By the end of the instructional period, given everyday scenarios, the learner will formulate a clear and respectful refusal using words appropriate to the context in 4 of 5 opportunities across 3 consecutive sessions.
  • By the end of the instructional period, the learner will differentiate passive, aggressive, and appropriately assertive refusal responses with 80% accuracy across 3 consecutive sessions.
  • By the end of the instructional period, when a refusal is not immediately respected, the learner will state or demonstrate an appropriate next step in 4 of 5 role-play opportunities across 3 consecutive sessions.

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