Scene to read · Empathy, Communication
I sound like a child
You are a volunteer tutor in an evening English class for adults at a community center.
During tonight's class, Farid, who is 57, mispronounced a word and several younger learners laughed, including Colette. At the break he is packing his bag as she hurries over to the two of you.
The scene
Farid: Thirty years I was an engineer. Here I sound like a child. Let me go quietly.
Colette: We laugh at everyone, me included. It's how this class is.
Colette: Let me say sorry in front of the group. Please.
Farid: No. Where I come from, that would only make it worse.
Colette: Then you say something. Please.
The two questions
- 1What would you say to Farid?
- 2Why can being a beginner feel so hard for adults, and what helps?
What raters look for
- Empathy
- Recognizes what others feel and need, and lets that shape the response without losing judgment.
- Communication
- Listens first, speaks clearly and respectfully, and adapts the message to the listener.
Answer scenarios like this on the real timers
Answer both questions on the clock, and get each one scored 1–9 the way raters score. Your first set is free, no card.
Practice free
