Facial Expressions
Someone is smiling and laughing while talking to you. What social cue are they likely showing?
They are happy, enjoying the conversation, or having fun.
Someone keeps checking their watch while you're talking. What might that mean?
They may be in a hurry or need to leave.
Someone says, "That's awesome!" with an excited voice. How are they probably feeling?
Happy or excited.
Someone gives short answers and doesn't ask questions back. What might this mean?
They may not be interested in continuing the conversation.
Your friend looks sad and is very quiet. What could you do?
Ask if they are okay or if they want to talk.
Someone has their eyebrows lowered, crossed arms, and a frown. How might they be feeling?
They may be upset, angry, or frustrated.
Someone takes a few steps backward while talking to you. What social cue are they giving?
They may want more personal space.
Someone says, "I'm fine" in a quiet, flat voice. What might that actually mean?
They may be upset, tired, or not okay.
Someone keeps looking around the room while you talk. What could that mean?
They may be distracted or want to end the conversation.
You tell a joke and nobody laughs. What is the best response?
Move on and change the subject.
Someone looks at you with wide eyes and raised eyebrows after you tell them surprising news. What emotion might they be showing?
Surprise or shock.
Someone is leaning toward you and nodding while you speak. What does this usually mean?
They are interested and listening.
Why is tone of voice important?
It helps us understand what someone really means and how they feel.
You've been talking for several minutes without letting the other person speak. What should you do?
Pause and give the other person a chance to talk.
A friend is giving short answers and not making eye contact. What is a good response?
Ask if they're okay or give them some space.
Someone avoids eye contact and looks down while speaking. What could this social cue mean?
They may be nervous, shy, embarrassed, or uncomfortable.
Someone has their arms crossed during a conversation. Does this always mean they are angry?
No. They could be cold, comfortable, or upset.
A person says, "Great job," but rolls their eyes and uses a sarcastic tone. Do they probably mean it?
No, they may be being sarcastic.
A person starts to yawn and lays their head down on the table while you are talking. What does this mean?
They could be feeling tired or sleepy.
Someone keeps looking at the door while talking to you. What might this mean?
They may be ready to leave.
Why is it important not to assume someone's feelings based on only one facial expression?
One facial expression doesn't always tell the whole story. It's important to look at other social cues and the situation.
People can show feelings without speaking by using this.
Body Language.
Why can it be difficult to understand sarcasm?
Because the words and the tone of voice mean different things.
You ask someone how their weekend was, and they answer with one word and turn away. What is the social cue?
They may not want to continue the conversation right now.
You're excited about your favorite topic, but you notice the other person keeps looking away and changing the subject. What should you do?
Change the topic, ask them a question, or give them a chance to talk about something they enjoy.