Bullying Scenario Cards

Use these scenarios to identify the type of bullying, discuss potential harm, and plan a safe bystander intervention.

Scenario 1

During lunch, Maria accidentally drops her tray. A group of students laughs and pushes her tray further away while calling her clumsy.

1. What type of bullying is this?
   Type of bullying:
   
   
   
2. What emotional or physical harm might Maria experience?
   Potential harm:
   
   
   
3. As a bystander, what could you do to safely intervene or support Maria?
   Intervention strategy:
   
   
   

Scenario 2

In the hallway, Jamal overhears two students making fun of his accent and calling him names every morning on their way to class.

1. What type of bullying is this?
   Type of bullying:
   
   
   
2. What impact could these comments have on Jamal over time?
   Potential harm:
   
   
   
3. What is one safe way you could step in or help Jamal?
   Intervention strategy:
   
   
   

Scenario 3

A group of friends consistently leaves Taylor out of weekend plans and spreads rumors that Taylor isn’t "cool enough to hang out."

1. What type of bullying is this?
   Type of bullying:
   
   
   
2. How might being excluded affect Taylor’s feelings and sense of belonging?
   Potential harm:
   
   
   
3. What could you do to include Taylor or stop the rumor-spreading?
   Intervention strategy:
   
   
   

Scenario 4

During class, someone shares a group chat message mocking Alex’s appearance and encourages others to add embarrassing photos without consent.

1. What type of bullying is this?
   Type of bullying:
   
   
   
2. What online or offline harm might Alex suffer?
   Potential harm:
   
   
   
3. How could you safely intervene in a digital environment?
   Intervention strategy:
   
   
   

Scenario 5

At recess, Devin trips and falls. A student nearby records it on their phone, posts it to social media, and adds a cruel caption.

1. What type of bullying is this?
   Type of bullying:
   
   
   
2. What are possible consequences for Devin when the video circulates?
   Potential harm:
   
   
   
3. As someone who saw this happen, what is a safe action you could take?
   Intervention strategy:
   
   
   

Scenario 6

While waiting for the bus, Jordan overhears other students making derogatory comments about a classmate’s wheelchair and calling them “slow.”

1. What type of bullying is this?
   Type of bullying:
   
   
   
2. How could these comments affect the classmate’s self-esteem and safety?
   Potential harm:
   
   
   
3. What could you say or do to show support and stop the bullying?
   Intervention strategy:
   
   
   

Bullying Intervention Strategies Handout

Use these four safe and simple strategies to stand up against bullying. Choose the one that feels right for the situation and your comfort level.

1. Distract

Shift attention away from the bullying without confronting the aggressor.
Example: Drop your books or ask loudly for directions to an event so everyone’s focus moves off the target.

2. Support

Show kindness and solidarity to the person being bullied.
Example: Walk up and say, “Are you OK? Do you want to sit with me?” or place your hand on their shoulder and guide them away.

3. Report

If stepping in feels unsafe, tell a trusted adult right away.
Example: After class, privately inform your teacher or school counselor about what you witnessed.

4. Include

Invite the excluded student into your activities or group.
Example: “Hey, we’re heading to the library—want to come study with us?” or ask them to join your lunch table.

Tip: Always pick one strategy that feels safe for you. Even small actions can make a big difference in stopping bullying.

Stand Up to Bullying Reflection Worksheet

Use this worksheet to think about what you’ve learned and make a personal commitment to stand up to bullying.

1. Describe a time you witnessed bullying at school.

What happened, and how did it make you feel?

2. Which intervention strategy will you choose when you see bullying?

(Choose one from the Bullying Intervention Strategies Handout: Distract, Support, Report, or Include)
Type of strategy:

3. Explain why you chose this strategy.

How will it help the person being bullied and keep you safe?

4. What will you say or do in that moment?

Write out the exact words or actions you plan to use.

5. My Personal Pledge

Finish this sentence with your commitment:

“I pledge to stand up to bullying by ________________________________________________________________”