How can you tell what someone is feeling when they aren't saying a word? Explore non-verbal communication with an activity based on Cynthia Breazeal's work with expressive robots. One learner puts a bag over his or her face and uses body language to express an emotion, while others in the group try to guess what they are trying to demonstrate.

Concepts

robots, emotions, expressing feelings, body language, non-verbal communication, technology resources

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Instructional Ideas

• Have learners write about their experiences as the robot, including which emotions were the most difficult to express non-verbally
• Perform the activity as a whole class (with a teacher or selected learner as the robot), in small groups, or with families at home
• Show selected clips of the videos that kids make to share the project with the class
• Use the activity as an introduction to a research project about robot technology or women who are scientists
• Send the worksheet home with learners to work on the activity with their families

Classroom Considerations

• Designed as a family activity, but applicable to any class setting

Pros

• Helpful for a STEM lesson as well as for learners with special needs who have a hard time with communication
• A great activity for boys and girls who are interested in science and communication
• Comes with a teacher reference guide

Cons

• None