Noticing how sarcasm communicates a different meaning than the literal words.
Exploring how tone and expression carry meaning beyond what is said.
Thinking about how shared knowledge between people can affect how sarcasm lands.
Considering that people vary in how much they use or enjoy sarcasm.
Reflecting on how the same comment can be understood differently by different people.
Skip is a character who communicates using sarcasm throughout the skit. He makes statements that mean the opposite of what the words literally say. His tone, facial expressions, and timing signal that he is not being literal.
• What did you notice about how Skip signalled that he was being sarcastic?
• How did his tone help show what he actually meant?
• How did his facial expressions add to the meaning?
• Have you ever heard sarcasm used and not understood what the person meant?
• Do you use sarcasm yourself?
• Are there situations where it feels easier or harder to use sarcasm?
• Does knowing someone well change how you understand their sarcasm?
• What might help when two people interpret the same sarcastic comment differently?
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.
For access to playback speed, transcripts or closed captions, please click the video title in the top left of the player to access the Youtube source where these controls are provisioned.
We are always looking to grow and improve this resource and would love to hear from you. Whether you have a suggestion for a clip or topic, a question about your subscription, or feedback to share, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Please also see our knowledge base for further information.
