Silent Expressions: Non-Verbal Communication Week
non verbal communication week
This week-long lesson plan explores various aspects of non-verbal communication, including body language, facial expressions, gestures, and personal space. Engaging activities will help teens understand and practice non-verbal cues in meaningful ways, enhancing their communication skills.
Post-it notes, Pens, Mirror, Scenario Cards, Worksheet: Observing Non-Verbal Cues, Worksheet: Non-Verbal Communication Skills, Printable Cards: Non-Verbal Scenarios, Printable Cards: Emotion Charades, and Discussion Questions: Reflecting on Non-Verbal Cues
Step 1
Introduction to Non-Verbal Communication
30 mins
- Explain the concept of non-verbal communication.
- Discuss different types (body language, facial expressions, gestures, personal space).
- Share examples and ask students to think of additional examples from their own experiences.
- Set the stage for the week's activities and objectives.
Step 2
Day 1: Observing Non-Verbal Cues
60 mins
- Activity: Mirror Exercise - teens pair up and take turns mimicking each other's facial expressions.
- Discuss how facial expressions are powerful forms of communication.
- Worksheet: Observing Non-Verbal Cues - watch silent clips or observe interactions around them and fill out the worksheet.
Step 3
Day 2: Body Language
60 mins
- Activity: Posture and Movement - discuss how body language impacts communication.
- Group Activity: Create short skits showcasing different body language scenarios.
- Printable Cards: Non-Verbal Scenarios - role-play scenarios using body language cues.
Step 4
Day 3: Gestures
60 mins
- Activity: International Gestures - discuss how gestures can vary in meaning across cultures.
- Gesture Charades - teens guess the meaning of various gestures acted out by peers.
- Printable Cards: Emotion Charades - match gestures with emotions and discuss meanings.
Step 5
Day 4: Personal Space
60 mins
- Activity: Bubble Game - teens explore the concept of personal space by creating 'bubbles' around them.
- Discussion: Cultural differences in personal space preferences.
- Scenario Cards: Practice navigating different personal space norms in given scenarios.
Step 6
Day 5: Reflection and Practice
60 mins
- Reflection: Discuss the week's learnings in a roundtable discussion.
- Discussion Questions: Reflecting on Non-Verbal Cues - students share their thoughts on what they learned.
- Worksheet: Non-Verbal Communication Skills - complete a self-assessment and set goals for improvement.
- Recap key points from the week.
- Encourage students to be mindful of non-verbal communication in their daily lives.
- Open floor for any final questions or comments.
- Provide resources for further learning on non-verbal communication.
