Silent Signals & Spoken Words: Pretest

Which of the following is an example of verbal communication?

• Waving at a friend

• Sending a text message

• Rolling your eyes

• Crossing your arms

Answer explanation

Verbal communication involves the use of words to convey messages. Sending a text message is a clear example of this, as it uses written words to communicate, unlike the other options which are non-verbal gestures.

True or False: Nonverbal communication is always intentional.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

False is correct because nonverbal communication can be unintentional, such as body language or facial expressions that occur without conscious thought.

What does the phrase "It's not what you say, it's how you say it" refer to?

• The importance of voice tone and delivery

• The need to use bigger words

• Writing messages instead of speaking them

• Speaking in a foreign language

Answer explanation

The phrase emphasizes that the way something is communicated, including tone and delivery, can significantly impact its meaning and reception, making 'The importance of voice tone and delivery' the correct choice.

Which type of nonverbal communication refers to body movements like gestures and facial expressions?

• Proxemics

• Chronemics

• Kinesics

• Vocalics

Answer explanation

Kinesics refers to body movements, including gestures and facial expressions, which are key components of nonverbal communication. Proxemics relates to personal space, chronemics to time, and vocalics to vocal elements.

You tell your friend, "I'm fine," but your arms are crossed, and you avoid eye contact. What message are you likely sending?

• You are completely fine

• You are upset despite what you said

• You are excited about something

• You want them to leave

Answer explanation

Your crossed arms and avoidance of eye contact suggest discomfort or defensiveness, indicating that you are upset despite stating "I'm fine." This nonverbal communication contradicts your verbal message.

True or False: The way we use personal space (proxemics) can affect how comfortable people feel in a conversation.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

True. Proxemics, or personal space, significantly influences comfort levels in conversations. Invading personal space can create discomfort, while respecting it fosters a more relaxed and open dialogue.

What does vocalics refer to in communication?

• The words you choose

• The sound of your voice, including tone and pitch

• The speed of your typing

• The way you gesture with your hands

Answer explanation

Vocalics refers to the sound of your voice, including aspects like tone and pitch. This choice highlights how vocal qualities can affect communication, unlike the other options which pertain to different communication elements.

Which of the following is an example of paralanguage?

• The words in a speech

• Saying "uh-huh" to show you're listening

• Reading a text message aloud

• Using sign language

Answer explanation

Paralanguage refers to non-verbal elements that accompany speech. Saying "uh-huh" indicates active listening and conveys understanding, making it a clear example of paralanguage, unlike the other options which involve verbal or signed communication.

Your friend is telling a story, and you keep nodding and saying “mm-hmm.” What are you demonstrating?

• Active listening

• Selective hearing

• Disinterest

• Interrupting

Answer explanation

By nodding and saying 'mm-hmm,' you are showing engagement and understanding, which are key components of active listening. This indicates you are paying attention to your friend's story.

True or False: Smiling is a universal sign of happiness and means the same thing in all cultures.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

True. Smiling is widely recognized as a universal sign of happiness across many cultures, although the context and meaning can vary. However, in general, it is associated with positive emotions.