Cross-Cultural Communication Lesson
10+ exercises
Note: the complete set of exercises and audio files can be downloaded at the end of the post.
Cross-cultural communication has become an essential skill for success in today's interconnected world. Yet, while fundamental, it's often overlooked in general discussions of professional requirements and capabilities (see my earlier post about soft skills). This skill is complex, drawing on emotional intelligence, active listening, adaptability, and cultural awareness. It goes beyond just language fluency - it requires understanding subtle cultural nuances, non-verbal cues, different communication styles, and varying cultural values and norms.
This week’s lesson explores the language and various aspects of cross-cultural communication. A summary of the exercises is below. Most of the exercises are fairly flexible and suitable for high elementary to pre-intermediate students. Some exercises are a bit more advanced.
Brainstorming and Vocabulary
Brainstorming Cross Cultural Communication
Brainstorming Meanings of Body Language and Gestures
Visual Vocabulary
Vocabulary Review Quiz
Which Word is Different?
Listening & Communication
Dialogue Listening (vocabulary focus)
Body Language (listening and vocabulary)
Pronunciation – Circle the Word and Syllable Stress
Listening ("Language and Thought" - experimental advanced exercise)
Grammar
Parts of Speech
Grammar Role Play
Critical Thinking
Critical Thinking Exercises (checklist/ranking/sorting)
Brainstorming
Visual Vocabulary
Grammar Role Play
Critical Thinking
