Blue Language at Work
QUICK CHECK ANSWERS:
1.  a) Cursing a blue streak.  
  b) Any 5 of 7 such as: cursing, cussing, dirty 
talk, evil speaking, obscenity.
2.  a) Teens love blue language. It's fun, funny, 
taboo.
3.  a) It steals focus. 
 b)  You do not want the manager thinking about 
your blue language.
  c) You want the manager thinking about the 
good job you are doing.
4.  a) Less likely to promote someone who swears 
while at work.  
  b) Workers who use blue language lack matu -
rity (judgement/good work habits).
  c) Blue language makes workers appear less 
intelligent (less smart).
5.  a) You are as good as your word.  
  b) Any 3 of 6 such as: lower your professional 
appearance; harm work relationships; be con -
sidered harassment.
6.  a) An exit interview.
  b) Your behavior is going to invite lawsuits.
  c) Workers who use blue language.
7.  Know how to handle yourself in stressful situa -
tions.
8.  Any 3 of 6 such as: Makes you more likely to 
receive raises and promotions; shows that you 
have grace under pressure; Lets you serve as a 
role model for new workers. 
9.	 a)	 Any	3	such	as	police	officers,	fire	fighters,	
bankers.  
  b) The video may end up as evidence in court or 
a story on cable or internet news.  
  c) Habit of excellent communication skills.
10.  a)  Close your mouth and say nothing.
  b) Of an acceptable way to say what you want 
to say.
  c) The correct words will come to your brain 
quickly allowing you to talk and not offend oth-
ers.	
11.  a) Anger and an outburst of emotions.
  b) Blue language does not help a situation — 
blue language only creates more problems for 
themselves and others.
12.  a) Student's wording: If you are crew member 
who wants to be shift supervisor, dress, act, and 
talk like a shift supervisor.
  b) Others will see you as a worker who is ready 
to be promoted.
13.  a) Reasons why it is not good to use blue lan -
guage at work.
  b) Power.
  c) Steps to stop blue language.
14.  a) Student's opinion.
  b) 25-word essay.
After High School Choices (page 2 of 2)