Body Language Basics

Kiley Horn

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Body Language Basics

Understand body language

In this lesson, students will explore how body language affects communication. They will practice using positive body language and interpreting non-verbal cues in social settings. This lesson is important as it helps students develop social-emotional skills, enhances their ability to communicate effectively, and fosters empathy by understanding others' non-verbal signals.

Audience

3rd Grade Students

Time

30 mins

Approach

Understand body language

Materials

Post-it notes, Pens, Printable Cards: Body Language Scenarios, and Worksheet: Body Language Practice

Step 1

Introduction to Body Language

5 mins

Begin with a brief discussion on what body language is and why it's important.
Ask students to share examples of body language they know (e.g., smiling, crossing arms).

Step 2

Body Language Scenarios

10 mins

Distribute the printable cards with different body language scenarios.
In pairs, students act out the scenarios and guess what emotion or message is being conveyed.
Discuss as a class how different body language can change the message.

Step 3

Body Language Practice

10 mins

Hand out the worksheet for body language practice.
Students complete exercises that involve matching body language to emotions or messages.
Encourage students to think about how they use body language in their daily interactions.

Step 4

Closure and Reflection

5 mins

Gather students for a closing discussion.
Ask students to reflect on what they learned about body language.
Encourage them to share one new thing they will try to improve their own body language.

Worksheet

Body Language Scenarios

Printable cards with different body language scenarios for students to act out and interpret.

Smiling and waving

Crossing arms and frowning

Nodding and maintaining eye contact

Looking away and yawning

Worksheet

Body Language Practice

A worksheet to help students practice identifying and using positive body language.

Match the body language to the emotion: Smiling, Frowning, Crossing arms, Nodding.

Write about a time you used body language to communicate without words.

Think about a time you smiled at someone or nodded in agreement.