SPEAKING: BODY LANGUAGE

SPEAKING: BODY LANGUAGE

The ‘presence’ that a teacher has in the classroom is crucial in determining
‘how much’ learning takes place and ‘how well’ learning takes place. Being
relaxed yourself and ensuring that students too learn in a tension free
atmosphere is extremely important.

More than what behaviour reveals, it is the non-verbal behaviour that is of
significance. Self respect, confident behaviour and tone and eye contact are
some positive indicators.

Some of the ways in which body language can improve the desired
atmosphere within the class are:

1 Keeping eye contact with the student you are talking to, and with every
student in the class;
2 Standing ‘tall’ and walking in with head held high, instead of shuffling
in, head bowed;
3 Having a calm, relaxed face – smiling and laughing easily;
4 Using facial expressions that show you are listening and responding to
what the student is saying;
5 Smiling and nodding when a student is saying something;
6 Walking around the class when a discussion is going on;
7 Walking towards the person who is talking;
8 Capturing and holding attention of the class through exaggerated
movements when explaining something;
9 Using your voice appropriately in different situations, e.g. whispering
when required along with gestures;
10 Using inclusive language such as, yesterday we read about ….. and
11 Wearing smart and comfortable clothing.

Your body language should show that you are willing to lead without
bullying. Avoid the following as they are signs of indifference and casualness:
1 Do not slouch;
2 Do not look out of the window while teaching/while students are
completing an assigned task;
3 Do not wear very informal clothing such as jeans and a T-Shirt;
4 Do not remove your shoes and sit in class;
5 Do not fold your arms and speak to the class;
6 Do not keep playing with your pen/fingers while teaching/listening to
students;
7 Do not sit with your face/jaw on your hand with a faraway look in your
eyes; and
8 Keeping your hands in your pockets or tying your tie loosely around
your neck are indicators of a careless/casual attitude.