As educators, it’s essential to teach students the value of effective communication. One aspect of communication that is often overlooked is the use of indirect language. By learning to speak indirectly, students can create a more positive atmosphere, improve their relationships, and increase the likelihood of others agreeing with them. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of indirect language and provide a no-prep activity, discussion questions, and related skills for students to practice.

Introduction

Direct language is when we ask for exactly what we want, while indirect language involves a more gentle approach. There are times when using indirect language is more effective, as it can make people more likely to agree with our requests. Some tips for speaking indirectly include using questions instead of directions, easing into conversations with polite comments, and choosing gentler words. By incorporating these tips, students can develop better communication skills and foster more positive interactions with others.

No-Prep Activity: The Indirect Language Challenge

This activity requires no preparation or materials from the educator. Divide the students into pairs and explain the concept of indirect language. Then, challenge each pair to have a conversation where they practice using indirect language. Provide them with a few scenarios for which they need to make requests or disagree with each other. Encourage them to use questions, polite comments, and gentle words. After the activity, have a group discussion to reflect on their experiences and share what they learned.

Discussion Questions

1. Why is it important to use indirect language in certain situations? How can it improve communication and relationships?
2. Can you think of a time when you used direct language and it led to a negative outcome? How could you have approached the situation differently using indirect language?
3. What are some challenges you faced while trying to use indirect language during the activity? How can you overcome these challenges in future conversations?
4. How does using indirect language show respect and consideration for others’ feelings?
5. Do you think it’s always better to use indirect language, or are there situations where direct language is more appropriate? Explain your reasoning.

Related Skills

Beyond indirect language, there are other relevant skills students can develop to improve their social-emotional learning and communication abilities. These skills include:

• Active listening: Paying close attention to what others are saying and responding thoughtfully.
• Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others, which can help in choosing the right language to communicate effectively.
• Assertiveness: Expressing one’s thoughts, feelings, and beliefs in an open, honest, and respectful manner without being aggressive.
• Conflict resolution: Using effective communication strategies to resolve disagreements and find mutually beneficial solutions.

Next Steps

Now that you have an understanding of the importance of indirect language and how it can improve communication, we encourage you to explore more resources and activities to help your students develop this skill. To access free sample materials, including lessons on indirect language and other related skills, please visit Everyday Speech’s sample materials page.