Interpreting how a character feels using only their face and body.
Noticing how Stu's feelings change as the test becomes harder.
Noticing the clues that show what each character is thinking.
Using what we see to predict what a character might do next.
Predicting what may happen next.
In this Pixar short film, a young alien named Stu is taking a test to abduct a sleeping man. His examiner, Mr. B, watches closely and makes notes, but he does not give Stu any hints. Stu uses a large panel of switches to try to lift the man into the spaceship. He presses the wrong switches and bumps the man around the room, but the man stays asleep. In the end, Mr. B takes over the controls and Stu is visibly upset. Mr. B finishes the task, then lets Stu fly the ship home. Stu crashes the ship.
• What was Stu trying to do in the spaceship?
• What did you see that showed you how Stu was feeling?
• How do you think Stu was feeling when he did not use the correct switches?
• How do you think Mr. B felt as he watched Stu?
• While you were watching, what did you think would happen to the sleeping man?
• Why do you think the man stayed asleep the whole time?
• When have you felt the way Stu felt?
• Why did Mr. B take over the controls?
• Why do you think Mr. B gave the controls back to Stu?
• What do you think will happen next?
The questions within this guide are designed to open dialogue and facilitate discussion around the relevant topics. It is up to the user to adapt as needed to best suit the person they are supporting. A neuroaffirming approach was central to the design of these resources and remains essential to their application. This means recognising and respecting the diverse ways people think, communicate, and experience the world, ensuring all conversations are led with curiosity, respect, and without judgement. These resources are a starting point. Trust your knowledge of the person you are supporting to shape the conversation from there.
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