Challenge the proposal rather than the person

A route crossing a blocked square provides a checkable concern. Responding to that feature keeps a disagreement anchored in the shared task, leaving space for the original proposer to suggest a better alternative.

'That route crosses the blocked square; could we go around?' focuses on the plan.

Refer to the plan's observable feature

Restate the proposal. Explain a concern. Offer an alternative.

Refer back to the shared task or constraint. This gives the disagreement an external focus that can be checked and discussed.

Avoid personal labels.

Does the response address the idea? Use visual annotations.

Resources

• Friendship Conversation Cards — Choose neutral prompts, permit passing and offer private or nonverbal responses.

Further reading

• ACECQA — play, leisure and intentionality

Read next

• A group agreement needs actions people can recognise
• A visible turn system can reduce the race for materials
• Group roles can change as the project changes

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