Conversation Skills
You are talking to someone and they stop making eye contact, give short answers, and look at their phone.
What is one possible sign they may want to end the conversation?
They may be losing interest or wanting to end the conversation.
What is one reason body language is important in communication?
It shows feelings, interest, comfort level, or reactions.
True or False:
All communication is meant to be taken literally.
False.
What is one physical sign you might notice when feeling anxious?
Fast heartbeat, sweating, tense muscles, shallow breathing.
Your friend stops responding to texts. List three possible explanations that are NOT about you.
Busy with work
Phone issues
Family emergency
Feeling overwhelmed
Forgot to reply
What is a good follow-up question if someone says, “I went to the beach this weekend”?
“That sounds fun! What did you do there?”
Which body signal often shows confidence?
A. Slouched shoulders
B. Avoiding eye contact
C. Standing tall with relaxed posture
D. Whispering
C. Standing tall with relaxed posture
If someone says, “I guess I’ll just do it myself,” what could that imply?
Answers may vary. This depends on context and tone of voice, but they might be frustrated that no one offered to help.
True or False:
We are responsible for managing our emotions, even when others trigger them.
True
True or False
If someone cancels plans, it usually means they don’t like you.
False.
Follow-up discussion: List three alternative explanations.
Which question is best for keeping a conversation going?
A. “Do you like movies?”
B. “What kind of movies do you enjoy?”
C. “Movies are better than books.”
D. “I only watch action movies.”
B "What kind of movies do you enjoy?"
If someone smiles but their voice sounds irritated, which should you pay attention to most?
A. Only their words
B. Only their smile
C. Both tone and body language
D. Ignore it
C. Both tone and body language
Your friend says, “Wow, must be nice,” after you talk about a vacation. What are two possible hidden meanings?
They may feel jealous.
They may wish they could travel.
They may feel left out.
Someone cancels plans last minute. You feel frustrated. What is a socially appropriate response?
“I’m disappointed, but I understand.”
“Can we reschedule?”
Taking time to calm down before responding.
Perspective taking means trying to see the situation from someone else’s ______.
point of view (or perspective)
You accidentally interrupt someone. What could you say to repair the conversation?
“Sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt. Go ahead.”
Name two nonverbal cues that might signal someone wants personal space.
Stepping backward
Leaning away
Turning body away
Minimal eye contact
Crossing arms tightly
How can tone of voice change the meaning of the words “That’s great”?
An excited tone means genuine happiness; a sarcastic tone may mean the opposite.
If your heart is racing and your fists are clenched, you might be feeling:
A. Calm
B. Very excited
C. Angry or stressed
D. Tired
C. Angry or stressed
This term describes the ability to understand that others have thoughts, feelings, and beliefs different from your own.
Theory of Mind
How can you politely change the topic?
“That reminds me of something…” or “Speaking of that…”
How can your tone of voice change meaning?
Saying “Fine” happily sounds positive; saying it sharply might mean you’re upset.
Why do people sometimes hint instead of directly saying what they mean?
To avoid conflict
To be polite
To reduce embarrassment
Due to social norms about indirect communication
Why is it helpful to pause before reacting emotionally?
Prevents escalation
Allows clearer thinking
Reduces misunderstandings
Supports problem-solving
Scenario: Your roommate forgets to do their chores again. Instead of assuming they are lazy, name two other possible explanations.
They may be overwhelmed or stressed.
They may have forgotten.
They may be distracted or dealing with something personal.
(Any two reasonable alternative explanations earn full credit.)