When communicating with others, we often face the decision of whether to use direct or indirect language. In this blog post, we’ll explore the concept of direct and indirect language, present a no-prep activity for educators, and discuss how to stimulate further conversations around this topic. We’ll also touch on related skills and provide next steps for you to access free sample materials.

Introduction

Direct language is when we say exactly what we’re thinking, while indirect language involves talking around something without stating it directly. Both types of language have their place in social situations, and understanding when to use each can help students navigate their interactions more effectively. In the Two Sides game, students compare how people act in different situations, focusing on the use of direct and indirect language.

No-Prep Activity

Here’s an easy, no-prep activity that educators can use to help students understand the differences between direct and indirect language:

1. Divide students into pairs or small groups.
2. Provide each group with a list of social situations (e.g., asking for help, giving feedback, or making a request).
3. Ask students to come up with examples of direct and indirect language for each situation.
4. Have each group share their examples with the class, and discuss the impact of using direct or indirect language in each situation.

This activity encourages students to think critically about the language they use and its effect on others, helping them develop their communication skills.

Discussion Questions

Use these questions to facilitate further discussions around direct and indirect language:

• Why might someone choose to use indirect language in a situation where direct language could be more efficient?
• Can you think of a time when using direct language might have been more appropriate than indirect language, or vice versa? What were the consequences?
• How can we determine when it’s best to use direct or indirect language in a given situation?
• What are some potential challenges of using indirect language, and how can we overcome them?
• How can practicing the use of direct and indirect language help us improve our communication skills and relationships?

Related Skills

In addition to understanding direct and indirect language, students can benefit from learning other related skills, such as:

• Active listening: Paying attention to and understanding what others are saying, as well as recognizing their emotions and needs.
• Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others, which can help in choosing the most appropriate language for a situation.
• Assertiveness: Expressing one’s own thoughts, feelings, and needs in a respectful and direct manner.
• Conflict resolution: Resolving disagreements and finding solutions that work for all parties involved.

Next Steps

If you’re interested in exploring the Two Sides game and other resources to help students develop their communication skills, we encourage you to sign up for free sample materials at Everyday Speech. By incorporating principles of Social-Emotional Learning into your educational approach, you can help students navigate social situations more effectively and build stronger relationships.