There are four major aspects of body action. Identify two aspects, and explain why each is important. Discuss how speakers can effectively incorporate each aspect into their delivery.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The ideal answer should include:
- Eye contact
* Eye contact is the most important aspect of bodily communication. If you do not maintain enough eye contact, you appear unconcerned, distant, and untrustworthy. You also need to make eye contact to pick up on feedback from the audience.
* Speakers must maintain eye contact with the entire audience by equally looking at audience members from all parts of the room.
- Facial expression
* Appropriate facial expressions help you express your concern for the public speaking interaction and help you communicate your comfort and control.
* Nervousness and anxiety can prevent positive expressions from being communicated. The speaker must try to relax to make facial expressions natural. Time and practice will help.
- Gestures and posture
* Spontaneous and natural gestures will help the speaker communicate the message.
* Speakers must feel relaxed and comfortable with themselves and with the audience in order to generate natural body action. They should avoid appearing stiff, putting hands in pockets, leaning on desks or chalkboards, and engaging in self-manipulation.
- Movement
* Movement can be used to emphasize transitions and introduce important assertions.
* Speakers should walk more slowly to help convey an air of control.