Decoding Nonverbal Cues

Tara Buonanno Williams

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Decoding Nonverbal Cues

Understand nonverbal communication

This lesson focuses on helping 6th grade students understand and interpret nonverbal communication cues to better understand the thoughts and feelings of others. Through a combination of video content, interactive games, and discussions, students will learn to recognize and interpret body language, facial expressions, and other nonverbal signals. This lesson is important as it enhances students' social skills, empathy, and ability to communicate effectively with peers.

Audience

4, 6th grade students

Time

30 min

Approach

Game-Based Learning

Materials

Video: 4 Things All Great Listeners Know, Worksheet: Nonverbal Communication Scenarios, Reading: Understanding Nonverbal Cues, Discussion: Interpreting Body Language, and Quiz: Nonverbal Communication

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Begin with a brief introduction to nonverbal communication and its importance in understanding others.
Show the video 4 Things All Great Listeners Know to highlight the role of nonverbal cues in effective listening.

Step 2

Reading Activity

5 mins

Distribute the reading handout "Understanding Nonverbal Cues."
Have students read the handout individually and highlight key points about different types of nonverbal communication.

Step 3

Interactive Game

10 mins

Organize students into pairs for a game-based activity.
Provide each pair with scenarios from the "Nonverbal Communication Scenarios" worksheet.
Students act out the scenarios using only nonverbal cues while their partner guesses the emotion or message being conveyed.

Step 4

Discussion

5 mins

Facilitate a discussion using the "Interpreting Body Language" discussion prompts.
Encourage students to share their experiences from the game and discuss how nonverbal cues can change the interpretation of a message.

Step 5

Quiz and Closure

5 mins

Administer the "Nonverbal Communication" quiz to assess understanding.
Conclude the lesson by summarizing key points and encouraging students to observe nonverbal cues in their daily interactions.

Worksheet

Nonverbal Communication Scenarios

This worksheet provides scenarios for students to act out using nonverbal communication. It helps students practice interpreting body language and facial expressions.

Act out a scenario where you are excited about a surprise gift without using words.

Use facial expressions and body movements to show excitement.

Demonstrate feeling confused about a homework assignment without speaking.

Consider using gestures like scratching your head or shrugging.

Reading

Understanding Nonverbal Cues

This reading handout explains different types of nonverbal communication and their significance in understanding others.

Nonverbal communication includes facial expressions, body language, gestures, eye contact, and tone of voice. These cues can convey emotions and intentions without words. Understanding these signals can help you better interpret what others are feeling or thinking.

Discussion

Interpreting Body Language

This discussion focuses on how body language can influence communication and understanding.

How did nonverbal cues change your understanding of the scenarios during the game?

Encourage students to think about specific gestures or expressions that altered their perception.

Why is it important to pay attention to nonverbal communication in conversations?

Discuss how nonverbal cues can provide additional context to spoken words.

Quiz

Nonverbal Communication Quiz