Read & Listen: Responding to Others
OVERVIEW
On this page, you will read about how to respond to others.
- First, read the text and study the chart.
- Then, listen to audio of the text.
READ & LISTEN
Image Links to an external site.by pedrosimoes7, CC BY 2.0 Links to an external site.
Read:
In this activity, you will learn another strategy for Interpersonal Communication. You will learn how to tell others what you can and cannot do.
When you are responding to others, it is helpful to clearly express what you can or cannot do.
When we say we cannot do something, we often give a short reason to explain why. For example, we say, "I can't help you right now because I have to go to work".
Here are some ways to say you can or cannot do something.
| Question / Request | Can do | Can't do | Not sure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Can you please open the window? | No problem. | Sorry, I'm not allowed to because the teacher wants it closed. | I have to check first. |
|
Can you please help me with my homework? |
Sure. |
Sorry, I can't right now because I have to cook dinner. | Let me ask first. |
|
Do you have time to study together tonight? |
I'd be happy to. |
Sorry, I can't because I have to work. | I am not sure, but I will find out. |
|
There is no paper in the copier, can you tell me where it is? |
I can take care of that for you. | Sorry, I'm not able to. | I don't know, but I can find out. |