1. Understanding Nonverbal Language
Nonverbal language uses all the elements of communication except words.

2. A person using nonverbal language conveys messages through signals called cues – body language, appearance, and vocal sounds.

3. Since nonverbal messages often accompany verbal messages, they tend to have one of the following effects on the verbal messages.
They may complement or reinforce the verbal message.
They may emphasize it.
They may contradict it.
They may completely replace it.
If a nonverbal message is interpreted incorrectly an inappropriate response may result. People often do a perception check, a verbal response stating one person’s understanding of someone else’s nonverbal behavior.

4. Analyzing Body Language
Body language is the use of facial expressions, eye to eye contact, gestures, posture, and movement to communicate
Facial Expressions
People are capable of making many facial expressions that can have a variety of meanings. People also use masking.
Gestures
Gestures are the movements people make with their arms, hands, and fingers.
Posture
Posture is body position. The way you hold your body when you walk and the way you sit on the chair tell others a great deal about you.
Eye Contact
In American society, a speaker and a listener generally look each other in the eye during much of a conversation.
Eye contact is usually interpreted as a sign of honesty and straightforwardness.
Movement
Movement is simply the way a person moves. The way you walk, stand, sit, and perform other actions creates an impression on others and is interpreted as having meaning.

5. Activity Four
With a group of three, write up a list of ten slang expressions that you hear at your school.
For homework, go home and ask your parents or grandparents for five slang expressions that they used when they were in school. Bring your list to share with the class.