Words, faces and gestures
We communicate with words and without words. Words, spoken or written, are verbal communication. Faces, hands and the way we stand are non-verbal communication. A smile shows we are happy. A nod can mean yes. A wave can say hello or goodbye. Gestures can mean different things in different places, so we also use words to be sure. We choose our words for the person, too. With a teacher or a shopkeeper we use careful, polite words. With a friend we can use friendly words. On the phone, say who you are, speak clearly, listen, and say thank you. Never tell your address to a voice you do not know.
Hello. This is Malak. May I speak to Aunt Mona, please?
Hello, Malak. One moment, dear.
| Who? | What we might say |
|---|---|
| teacher | Good morning, Miss. May I ask a question, please? |
| friend | Hi, Hana! Do you want to play? |
| shopkeeper | Excuse me, how much is this notebook, please? |
Guess my feeling. Take turns to show a feeling with your face and hands only: happy, tired, surprised or worried. The others guess. Then say what you would say with words to a friend and what you would say to a teacher.