Chapter 5: The Three Channels of Communication
ANSWERS TO TRUE/FALSE QUESTIONS FROM THE TEXT
1. T
ANSWERS TO MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS FROM THE TEXT
1. c
SUGGESTED ANSWERS TO DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FROM THE TEXT
1. Tell others how you feel. Use the verbal channel in expressing your feelings. Do not rely on
2. Have a conversation with the person with the purpose of finding out how he or she defines
SUGGESTIONS FOR THE CASE FROM THE TEXT
Case: “Reading” others
Starting tips: Chose a student who is comfortable with sitting in front of the class, role-playing
Joe, and talking openly about Joe’s issues as described in the case. Further, it will be important
To get the most out of this exercise, it will also be important for the instructor to ask appropriate
Finally, if you select the alternative option, in which a student talks about his or her work and life
instead of role-playing Joe, be certain that the student is comfortable doing this and does not feel
compelled to expound on matters that are private.
Desired outcomes: Discussion following this activity should highlight a significant number of
verbal, non-verbal, and para-verbal messages that the student role-playing Joe sent. In many
Suggested summary: Students should gain an increased understanding of the challenges and
complexities of communicating through the verbal, non-verbal, and para-verbal challenges.
TEST QUESTIONS
True or False questions (each worth 1 or 2 points)
__T__ 1. The verbal channel is considered to be the most specific form of communication.
Multiple Choice (worth 2 or 3 points each)
b. Visual
d. None of the above are correct
meaning of which of the following?
a. Understanding
Short Answer essay questions (each worth up to 10 points)
1. Sketch the “Ladder of Abstraction,” label each end of the ladder, and give three examples of
the kinds of things located on the ladder.
Answer:
The Ladder of Abstraction
Concrete object
The real apple
Photograph of an apple
Wax apple
Still life painting of an apple
The logo of the Apple computer company
The word “apple”
Abstract conceptualization
2. Describe the differences between an object and a word.
Answer:
Words have the opposite qualities. They do not exist in nature. They do not take up space
Words are invented by man to represent his inner and outer worlds to others. Problems
arise when our words refer to abstract conceptualizations. Our definitions of words such as
justice, fairness, goodness, mercy, and truth do not exist in nature. Their existence
3. Describe three tips or suggestions to consider when handling a conflict with someone from
another culture than your own:
Answer (possible responses):
Remind yourself that your culture is not the only correct one. Expect that your communication
Seek out someone from the same culture as the person or group with whom you are having the
Learn a new language
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FACILITATING EXERCISE 5-1: NON-SIGNIFICANT OTHER
PERCEPTION INVENTORY (NSOPI)
This is a very popular exercise with participants. It usually promotes a very lively discussion
with lots of laughter. Instructions for completing the exercise are provided in the chapter. A few
added instructions for facilitating the discussion follow.
Facilitating the large group discussion: The entire class participates in this discussion. Pick
several of the areas on the NSOPI, and ask participants to report on the accuracy of their guesses.
