Gestures Around the World

(Worksheet for pre-listening schema building)

I. Go to the web site:

http://www.webofculture.com/worldsmart/gestures.html

Try to find the answers to the following questions:

1. Which of the following are not rude in Belgium?

a. When you are talking with someone, place your hand or hands in your pockets.
b. Slap someone on the back.
c. Shake hands with someone.

2. How do you signal a waiter for a bill in England?

3. What should you do before you enter a mosque in Iran?

4. Do men and women shake hands in Mali?

5. Which hand should you use to pour wine in Chile?

6. If you visit Costa Rica, how often should you take a shower or bath?

7. What is the national drink of Mexico, and how do you drink it?

8. What should you do before entering a Korean home?

9. What is considered a sign of politeness and a good business skill in Japan?

10. What is the standard greeting in the United States?
 

II. Choose a country. What are the gestures used in that country? Write down the interesting gestures and bring them to class tomorrow to discuss with your classmates.

What country did you choose?
 

What are the interesting gestures or customs from that country?
 
 

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