1. Character Trait: Communication (Part 1)
Based on pages of What Do You Stand For? For Teens: A Guide to Building Character by Barbara A. Lewis
and How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

2. What does this mean?
“My belief is that communication is the best way to create strong relationships.”
-Jada Pinkett Smith

3. Genuine Communication

4. The Importance of Listening
“You have two eyes, two ears, and only one mouth for a reason.”

6. 10 Ways to be a
Great Communicator

7. 1. Speak LSC (Loudly, Slowly, Clearly)
Imagine that you are trying to communicate to the person furthest away in the room. Speak loudly, slowly, and clearly to get your message to that person.

8. 2. Really Listen Look at the person when he or she is speaking
Pay attention to body language (53% of communication)
Pay attention to tone/feeling (40% of communication)
Try to see things from the other person’s perspective

9. 3. Remember SNEB
Smile tells others that you like them and are glad to see them. Smile even when on the phone; the smile will be clear in the tone of your voice.
Nod your head to show you are interested
Eye contact also shows you are interested
Body language counts. Sit facing the speaker. Don’t cross arms or slouch in your seat.

10. 4. Ask Questions
If you don’t understand what the other person is saying, ask clarifying questions
By simply asking questions, others will think you are a great conversationalist

11. 5. Give Examples
To help support what you are saying, give examples

12. 6. Give Feedback
If others ask you questions, be willing to answer them

13. 7. Take Turns Speaking Don’t dominate the conversation
Recognize that others may wish to speak as well

14. 8. Talk About the Other Person’s Interests
Use the other person’s name, it’s a person’s favorite word!
Begin any conversation discussing the other’s interests and you’ll find them to be much more open to suggestion
If you talk to people about themselves, they will keep listening and listening
When in doubt, talk about the three F’s – Friends, Family, and Fun activities

15. 9. Never Criticize
People very rarely criticize themselves no matter how wrong they may be. Your criticism will not be welcomed.
Criticism puts others on the defensive, hurts self esteem, and builds resentment. Criticism is futile.
Positive Reinforcement works better. For example, criticizing soldiers for not wearing their helmets is less effective than asking if the helmets are uncomfortable and reminding them that the hats were designed for their protection.

16. 10. Be Present
Give the person speaking your full and undivided attention

17. Activity Cards Divide into groups of 3-5 students.
Read and discuss the questions on the 8 activity cards.

18. On Your Own