Communication Vocabulary
What is communication using spoken or written words
Verbal Language
What are positive and open communication behaviors?
Uncrossed arms and legs
Leaning forward slightly
Maintaining appropriate eye contact
Nodding
Smiling genuinely
Open palms
What is a strategy you can use to show you are paying attention?
Put away distractions (phone, other tasks)
Make eye contact
Focus on the speaker
How do you use tone in writing?
Remember: Tone is harder to convey in writing
Use punctuation carefully (too many exclamation points can seem over-eager or sarcastic)
Emojis can help clarify tone when appropriate
Reread before sending
What is passive behavior in conflicts?
Avoids expressing feelings or needs
Goes along with others to avoid conflict
Example: "Whatever you want is fine" (when it's really not)
What is communication without words, using body language, facial expressions, gestures, and tone
What are negative or closed non-verbal communication behaviors?
Crossed arms or legs
Looking away or avoiding eye contact
Frowning or scowling
Turning body away
Fidgeting excessively
Checking phone during conversation
How do you show someone you are listening?
Nod occasionally
Use small verbal affirmations ("mm-hmm," "I see")
Maintain appropriate posture
Understanding who your audience is.
What is aggressive behavior in conflicts?
Expresses feelings in a hostile or demanding way
Ignores others' rights and feelings
Example: "You always mess everything up!"
What is fully concentrating on what someone is saying, understanding their message, and responding thoughtfully
Active Listening
What is a way to express feelings without blaming others?
Using "I" statements
What is feedback?
Paraphrase: "So what you're saying is..."
Ask clarifying questions: "Can you explain more about...?"
Summarize: "It sounds like you're feeling..."
What guidelines should you follow when sending text messages?
onsider timing (not too late at night)
Be clear and specific
Avoid ALL CAPS (seems like shouting)
Understand that not everyone texts the same way
Important or complex topics are better discussed in person or by phone
What is the goal of being assertive?
Expresses feelings and needs clearly and respectfully
Respects both your own rights and others'
Example: "I feel frustrated when plans change last minute. Can we try to communicate earlier next time?"
What is expressing your thoughts, feelings, and needs clearly and respectfully while respecting others
Assertiveness
What is the attitude or emotion conveyed through your voice or writing?
Tone
How do you respond appropriately?
Be honest and respectful
Share your thoughts after fully listening
Avoid interrupting
What is social media awareness?
Think before you post (it can be permanent)
Be respectful in comments
Understand your audience
Privacy settings matter
Tone can easily be misunderstood
Give an example of an "I statement".
Focus on your feelings, not blame
"I feel..." not "You always..."
What is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person
Empathy
What is one thing that it is important to remember about non-verbal body language?
Body language can vary by culture
Context matters when interpreting non-verbal cues
Your body language should match your words for effective communication
What are common listening barriers?
nterrupting the speaker
Planning your response while they're still talking
Judging or criticizing before hearing the full message
Getting distracted by external noise or internal thoughts
Give an example of when you should choose digital or face-to-face communication.
Face-to-face is better for: Sensitive topics, complex discussions, conflict resolution, important decisions
Digital is fine for: Quick updates, sharing information, scheduling, casual conversations
What is one way you can compromise with someone?
agree on a solution
Listen to the other person
brainstorm solutions together