Using a Public Water Fountain
BeginnerA very simple public interaction. This scenario handles the polite give-and-take of waiting in a short line for a water fountain at a gym or park.
- Waiting in Line PolitelyYou approach the water fountain and see one person already using it and another person waiting. You position yourself in line behind them.
- Offering to Let Someone Go FirstYou are next in line, but you notice someone else seems to be in a greater hurry (e.g., heavily panting after a run) or has a child. You offer for them to go ahead of you.
- Being Offered to Go FirstYou are waiting, and the person in front of you (or someone else) politely gestures for you to go ahead, perhaps because you only need a quick sip.
- Asking for Waiting TimeYou're unsure how long the person currently at the fountain will be. You politely make eye contact and ask, 'Are you going to be much longer?' or 'Having trouble with the spout?'
- Making Small Talk While WaitingYou strike up a brief, light conversation with the person in front or behind you, perhaps about the weather, the gym, or the park.
- Leaving the Water Fountain CleanAfter using the fountain, you notice a few drips and quickly wipe them with your hand or a tissue, ensuring it's clean for the next person.