Instructions
Understanding social cues is an important skill for effective communication. This worksheet will help you practice recognizing and interpreting social cues in different situations. Read each question carefully and provide thoughtful responses.
Section 1: Identifying Social Cues
Read each scenario and identify whether the social cue is verbal, non-verbal, or both. Write your answer in the space provided.
1. A friend says, "I'm fine," but crosses their arms and avoids eye contact.
Verbal
Non-verbal
Both
2. A classmate sends you a text message saying, "Hey, what's up?"
Verbal
Non-verbal
Both
3. A coworker nods their head while you're speaking.
Verbal
Non-verbal
Both
4. Someone raises their voice during a conversation.
Verbal
Non-verbal
Both
Section 2: Interpreting Social Cues
Write a short explanation for each of the following social cues:
5. A person avoids eye contact during a conversation.
6. Someone smiles and waves at you from across the room.
7. A friend says, "I'm busy," but continues to text you.
8. A classmate taps their foot impatiently during a group project.
Section 3: Applying Social Cues
Imagine you are in the following situations. How would you interpret the social cues and respond?
9. You invite a friend to a party, and they say, "I'll think about it," but seem distracted.
10. A coworker gives you a compliment but avoids eye contact.
Section 4: Reflecting on Social Cues
Reflect on your own experiences with social cues:
11. Describe a time when you misinterpreted a social cue. What happened?
12. How can you improve your ability to recognize and interpret social cues in the future?
Bonus Activity: Drawing Social Cues
Draw a simple comic strip showing a social interaction. Label the verbal and non-verbal cues in the scene.
(You can sketch on a separate piece of paper and attach it here)