Anatomy of a Conversation Series

This 3 week class explores the elements that make up a conversation.  

Week 1- Anatomy of a Conversation: control and assumptions
This lesson will discuss a conversation in terms of four components: what I know, what I assume, what you know, and what you assume.  We will examine how these four components interact and how those interactions can produce a successful or stressful conversation. Elements of conversation covered are spoken/ unspoken, known/assumed, controllable/uncontrollable. 
Learners will have opportunity to practice a communication strategy to help minimize assumptions in conversation.

Week 2- Anatomy of a Conversation: asking effective questions
Learners will return to the table used in part 1 of the "Anatomy of a Conversation" series to determine what are the costs and benefits of asking questions in conversations.  
The differences between an interview and a conversation will be highlighted.  
Learners will discuss how questions effect the ability to communicate, and learn when and how to use questions most effectively.  

Week 3- Anatomy of a Conversation: flow
Part 3 looks at the flow of a typical conversation and compares what happens to it when reaction, question and a paraphrase replies are used.
Learners will compare three different reply choices: reactions, questions and paraphrases.  
We will cover the best way to check for meaning, and look at ways to move the conversation forward again after stopping to clarify your understanding.  


*This class directly relates to the BC Ministry of Education for K–12 Curriculum under: Physical and Health Education Curricular Competencies, and Mental well-being and Social and community health.  In particular we address communication skills, proposing and identifying strategies in social situations, self advocacy and group dynamics. 

ADHD, Autism, Neurotypical, Neurodiverse/Neurodivergent welcome here!