SELT Participating in a Discussion 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: You want to politely interrupt a speaker who has been talking for a long time. Which phrase is most appropriate?
- Stop talking, I have something to say.
- Sorry to jump in, but I'd like to add something here. (Correct answer)
- You're wrong about that point.
- Can everyone be quiet so I can speak?
Correct answer: Sorry to jump in, but I'd like to add something here.
'Sorry to jump in' is a polite and common way to interrupt without being rude.
Question 2: During a discussion, someone makes a point you completely agree with. Which response best shows strong agreement?
- I suppose that could be right.
- That's exactly what I was thinking — you've put it perfectly. (Correct answer)
- I'm not sure I follow your point.
- We should move on to the next topic.
Correct answer: That's exactly what I was thinking — you've put it perfectly.
Affirming the speaker's point and saying 'exactly what I was thinking' signals strong, genuine agreement.
Question 3: A colleague makes a statement you disagree with. Which is the most diplomatic way to express disagreement?
- That's completely wrong.
- I see your point, but I think there's another way to look at it. (Correct answer)
- Nobody agrees with you.
- Let's ignore that idea.
Correct answer: I see your point, but I think there's another way to look at it.
Acknowledging the speaker's view before presenting a counter-argument is a diplomatic discussion technique.
Question 4: In a group discussion, you notice one participant hasn't spoken yet. What is the most inclusive thing to say?
- Why haven't you said anything yet?
- This discussion doesn't concern you.
- We'd love to hear your thoughts on this, Maria. (Correct answer)
- Let's wrap up so everyone can leave.
Correct answer: We'd love to hear your thoughts on this, Maria.
Inviting a quiet participant by name encourages inclusive participation without putting them on the spot unfairly.
Question 5: Which phrase is best for building on a previous speaker's point rather than changing the topic?
- Anyway, moving on...
- Following on from what James said, I'd also add that... (Correct answer)
- Forget what was just said.
- I have a completely different idea.
Correct answer: Following on from what James said, I'd also add that...
Phrases like 'following on from' signal that you are extending the conversation rather than redirecting it.
Question 6: What does it mean to 'hold the floor' in a discussion?
- To stand up while speaking.
- To continue speaking without allowing interruption. (Correct answer)
- To summarize everyone else's points.
- To physically control the meeting room.
Correct answer: To continue speaking without allowing interruption.
'Holding the floor' means maintaining the right to speak while others wait their turn.
Question 7: You realize mid-discussion that you have misunderstood a previous question. What should you say?
- I'll pretend I understood and hope no one notices.
- I need to correct myself — I think I misunderstood the question earlier. (Correct answer)
- That question was poorly worded.
- Let's skip that part of the discussion.
Correct answer: I need to correct myself — I think I misunderstood the question earlier.
Openly correcting yourself demonstrates honesty and good communication skills in a discussion.
SELT Participating in a Discussion 2
You want to politely interrupt a speaker who has been talking for a long time.
Which phrase is most appropriate?