The Power of Non-Verbal Communication

• Employability
• Upper Secondary (Key Stage 4)
• BTEC

The Power of Non-Verbal Communication

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to demonstrate ways in which non-verbal communication can be used positively to support face-to-face communication.

Introduce the learning objective and explain the importance of non-verbal communication in effective communication.

What do you already know about non-verbal communication?

What is Non-Verbal Communication?

Non-verbal communication refers to the use of body language, facial expressions, tone of voice, and gestures to convey information.

Define non-verbal communication and ask students to share examples of non-verbal communication they have observed.

Types of Non-Verbal Communication

There are several types of non-verbal communication, including facial expressions, body language, touch, tone of voice, and eye contact.

List the types of non-verbal communication and provide examples of each. Encourage students to share their own examples.

Facial Expressions

Facial expressions can convey emotions and attitudes, such as happiness, sadness, anger, or surprise.

Discuss the importance of facial expressions in communication and provide examples of different facial expressions and the emotions they convey.

Body Language

Body language can convey confidence, nervousness, openness, or defensiveness.

Explain the role of body language in communication and provide examples of different body language cues.

Touch

Touch can communicate emotions and reinforce connections between people.

Discuss the role of touch in communication and provide examples of appropriate and inappropriate touch.

Tone of Voice

Tone of voice can convey emotions and attitudes, such as sarcasm, enthusiasm, or boredom.

Explain the importance of tone of voice in communication and provide examples of different tones of voice and the emotions they convey.

Eye Contact

Eye contact can convey confidence, trustworthiness, and interest in the other person.

Discuss the importance of eye contact in communication and provide examples of appropriate and inappropriate eye contact.

Using Non-Verbal Communication Positively

Non-verbal communication can be used positively to support face-to-face communication by reinforcing verbal messages, conveying emotions, and building rapport.

Explain how non-verbal communication can enhance communication and provide examples of positive non-verbal communication.

Interactive Exercise

Break students into pairs and have them practice using positive non-verbal communication skills, such as maintaining eye contact, nodding, and using appropriate facial expressions.

Provide instructions for the exercise and allow time for students to practice and provide feedback to each other.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.