Download CH 3 - Speech Communication

CH 3 - Nonverbal Communication
Nonverbal communication-anything people communication beyond the literal meaning of words (A
gesture, such as when someone nods his or her head "yes.")
Body language-gestures, eye contact, posture, facial expression, and proxemics as conveyors of feeling
(slouching when one is bored or tired)
Multi-channeled-conducted through both verbal and nonverbal means (a tale told via book form,
audiotape, and DVD)
Emphatic gestures-movements of the limbs, body, or head that allow a speaker to emphasize spoken
words.
Descriptive gestures-movements of the limbs, body, or head that help listeners visualize spoken words.
Posture-how you hold your body (Keeping your head high and shoulders back)
stance-how you distribute the weight of your body on your feet (feet apart, legs straight)
Proxemics-the use of space (Standing very close to a loved one to speak privately)
Communication imperative-the idea that you are always communicating something, whether you do
something or not (you cannot NOT communicate)
mannerism-a distinctive behavior (pushing up one's glasses every few seconds)
credibility-worthiness of belief (What a sincere, honest speaker conveys to the audience)
AVOID using sarcasm as it undermines the meaning of the words.
Reviewing Key Ideas
1.Provide 2 reasons why nonverbal comm. is important to the creation of meaning: Nonverbal
communication is important in creating meaning because it sends real messages to the receiver.
2. Explain why audiences might place more faith in nonverbal communication than in verbal
communication: Audiences might place more faith in nonverbal communication because words are
sometimes not spoken in truth but gestures, eyes, and facial expressions often reveal the truth.
3. List the six types of nonverbal communication and provide an example of how each can alter or
improve an audience's understanding of a speaker's massage: Facial expressions, when friendly and
natural, help you connect to the audience and gain their trust. Eye contact shows confidence and tells
the audience that you are engaged, honest, and sincere. Gestures help emphasize important words and
also help when describing. They help listeners understand your message. An alert posture and friendly
stance convey authority and alertness. Relaxed, easy movement set the audience at ease. Too little
movement looks uncomfortable; too much is distracting. Your appearance will hurt your message if you
are sloppy, uncombed, or inappropriately dressed. Dares in a way the makes your audience comfortable.
4. Identify the four principal spatial distances and the types of communication common to each: 318=intimate; 1.5-4=personal; 4-12=social; 12-20=public speaking