Verbal and Non-Verbal Listening Worksheet

Which of the following is an example of verbal listening?

• Nodding your head

• Saying, “I understand what you mean.”

• Smiling at the speaker

• Keeping eye contact

Which of the following is an example of non-verbal listening?

• Asking a follow-up question

• Saying, “That sounds great!”

• Looking at your phone while someone talks

• Leaning forward and making eye contact

Why is verbal listening important?

• It helps show respect with body language

• It shows understanding through words and responses

• It allows you to avoid looking at the speaker

• It means you don’t need to pay attention

Why is non-verbal listening important?

• It only matters when you don’t want to talk

• It proves you memorized what was said

• It shows attention through actions like nodding or eye contact

• It means you can interrupt politely

A teacher gives directions. Which response shows verbal listening?

• a) “So you want me to complete steps 1–3 for homework, right?”

• b) Looking away while the teacher speaks

• c) Whispering to a friend about lunch

• d) Shrugging without saying anything

A friend shares a problem. Which shows non-verbal listening?

• Saying, “That must be hard.”

• Nodding your head and keeping eye contact

• Interrupting to share your own story

• Changing the subject quickly

Which of the following does NOT show good non-verbal listening?

• Crossing your arms and rolling your eyes

• Sitting still and facing the speaker

• Smiling at a funny part of the story

• Nodding at key points

Which is the BEST example of verbal listening at home?

• Saying, “Okay, I’ll take out the trash now.”

• Walking away without answering

• Turning up the TV volume

• Ignoring what your parent asked

Which is the BEST example of non-verbal listening in class?

• Checking your phone during instructions

• Taking notes while the teacher explains

• Talking to a classmate

• Staring at the ceiling

Why is it important to use BOTH verbal and non-verbal listening?

• It helps you pretend you’re paying attention

• It shows respect and confirms understanding

• It means you don’t have to ask questions

• It lets you ignore details