📚 Topic Summary
“I” statements are a way of expressing your feelings and needs in a clear, direct, and respectful way. They focus on your own experience rather than blaming or accusing someone else. Using “I” statements can help improve communication and resolve conflicts more effectively. They typically follow this structure: “I feel… (feeling) when… (situation) because… (reason) I need… (what you want).”
For example, instead of saying "You always interrupt me!" which sounds accusatory, you could say, "I feel frustrated when I am interrupted because I don't get to finish my thoughts. I need to be able to share my ideas completely.” This approach encourages understanding and reduces defensiveness.
🧠 Part A: Vocabulary
Match each term with its correct definition.
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Feeling |
A. A situation or event that causes a reaction. |
| 2. Situation |
B. To hold someone responsible for something. |
| 3. Blame |
C. An emotion or state of mind. |
| 4. Need |
D. Expressing thoughts and feelings clearly and effectively. |
| 5. Communicate |
E. Something that is required or necessary. |
Match the term to the definition by writing the letter of the definition next to the number of the term (e.g., 1. C).
📝 Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the paragraph below using the following words: I, feelings, respectful, blaming, needs.
Using "____" statements is a ____ way to express your ____ and ____. It avoids ____ the other person and focuses on your own experience.
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Think about a time when you felt misunderstood. Write an example of how you could have used an “I” statement to better communicate your feelings in that situation.