Facial Expressions
If someone is smiling and making eye contact, what does that usually mean?
friendly / happy / approachable
Someone crosses their arms and turns their body away from you. What does that show?
Closed off / defensive / not interested
Someone says “fine” with a flat or angry tone. What does that usually mean?
They are not actually fine / upset
Someone keeps checking their phone while you talk. What does that show?
Not engaged / distracted
Someone says “Sure” but shakes their head no. Which cue should you trust more?
Body language (nonverbal cue)
Someone is frowning with their eyebrows pulled together. How might they feel?
Upset / angry / frustrated
A person leans toward you while you’re talking. What does that usually mean?
Interested / listening
A loud, fast voice can show what emotion?
Excited / angry
A person nods while you speak. What does that usually mean?
They understand / are listening
A person says “I’m listening” but looks away and sighs. Are they engaged?
No / not really listening
If someone rolls their eyes after you speak, what might that mean?
Annoyed / not interested / frustrated
Someone steps back when you move closer. What might they need?
More space / feel uncomfortable
A quiet, slow voice might mean the person feels what?
Sad / tired / unsure
Someone looks at the door multiple times during a conversation. What might they want?
To leave / end the conversation
Someone smiles but uses a sarcastic tone. What might they mean?
They don’t mean it / being sarcastic
A person’s eyes are wide and their mouth is open. What emotion are they showing?
Surprised / shocked
A person is tapping their foot and looking around. What might this mean?
Impatient / anxious / bored /nervous
Someone uses a joking tone and smiles. What are they likely doing?
Joking / being playful
A person laughs after a comment and smiles. What does that show?
They think it’s funny / comfortable
A person says “I’m fine” while frowning and slouching. How do they likely feel?
Upset / not fine
Someone avoids eye contact and looks down. How might they feel?
Uncomfortable / shy / nervous
Someone stands tall with relaxed shoulders. How might they feel?
Confident / comfortable / calm
A sharp or harsh tone often means the person is feeling what?
Angry / annoyed
Someone gives short answers and avoids talking. What might that mean?
Not interested / tired / uncomfortable
Someone nods yes but steps back and avoids eye contact. What does that show?
Uncomfortable / unsure