Nonverbal Communication Lesson 2 Nonverbal Communication
Objectives SWBAT define nonverbal communication and identify the different types of nonverbal communication after participating in the activities.
Nonverbal communication - the planned or unplanned transmission of meaning through an individual’s unspoken physical and behavioral cues. A large part of our communication is nonverbal. Discussion tips: Play a quick round of charades, or mime something to the class, and have them figure out what you are trying to communicate.
Different Types of Nonverbal Communication Facial expressions are responsible for a huge proportion of nonverbal communication. Discussion tips: Make faces, or have students make faces, and have the other students interpret the emotions. Discuss why facial expressions can serve as nonverbal communication. There are some facial expressions that are similar throughout the world.
Different Types of Nonverbal Communication Body language and posture can also convey a great deal of information. These two nonverbal behaviors can indicate feelings and attitude. Discussion tips: Have students give examples of gestures. Talk about gestures across cultures.
Different Types of Nonverbal Communication Your personal space is the distance around you that you consider yours. How close someone is to that space is their proximity to you. Acceptable proxemics varies by: • What’s allowed socially • Cultural expectations • Situational factors • Personality characteristics • Level of familiarity Discussion tips: Have students give examples of invading someone’s personal space. Have students give examples of times when proxemics vary (e.g., work, party, school, etc.).
Seinfeld: The Close Talker Discussion tips: Have students give examples of invading someone’s personal space. Have students give examples of times when proxemics vary (e.g., work, party, school, etc.).
Different Types of Nonverbal Communication Importance of the Eyes Eye Contact: Eye contact can help you determine a person’s intent in a situation. Usually, when a person looks you in the eyes, it means they are paying attention and that they are engaged with you. However, extended gazing can appear menacing or threatening. Blinking: Blinking, though natural, can also indicate how a person is dealing with a situation. Rapid blinking may indicate a person is distressed or uncomfortable. Infrequent blinking may indicate a person is purposely trying to control eye movements, knowing that their eyes can give away too much information. Pupil Size: Pupil size isn’t controlled only by light levels in the environment. Emotions and chemical levels within the body can also affect pupil size.
Different Types of Nonverbal Communication Haptics is communicating through touch. Haptics is an important part of nonverbal behavior. Touch can be used to communicate: • Affection • Familiarity • Sympathy • Power or control • A host of other emotions Discussion tips: Have students give examples of different types of touches. Discuss which emotions each touch might convey.
Summary Defined nonverbal communication. Identified the different types of nonverbal communication. Defined nonverbal communication. Discussion tips: Have students each share one thing they learned in the class.