OK, actually those of you who said “good” are correct. The word “no” is a good word.

In what ways can we communicate the word “no” as a good word? (Write some of the students’ answers on the board. Possible answers: to protect our safety, our health, our freedom, and our goals.)

Explain that “no” is a good word used by assertive people for good reasons. Revisit Lesson #5: Communication I; Part II where we examined the different communication techniques. Show how “no” can be conveyed in all the various styles:

• Style I (social or small talk) “No thank you, I don’t do drugs.”
• Style II
  • A. (control) “No, I do not break the law, I do not do drugs.”
  • B. (control with emphasis) “No I don’t do drugs, and if you bother me again I will call the police.”
• Style III (search talk) “No, I do not want drugs, why do you want drugs?”
• Style IV (straight talk) “No, I do not do drugs, and I feel very angry when you ask me to do drugs.”

Which of these styles do you think will get the best results if someone approaches you and wants you to do drugs or any other harmful thing? Give students time to comment on this exercise.

Learning how to say “no” is a skill worth learning, not only for the present but also for your future life. There will be many times in life when it is necessary for you to tell someone “no” and knowing how to do so effectively will serve you well now and as an adult.

Provide Handout #12: “When It’s Time To Say No”. Review with students. You may want to use the items as material for role-play.