Oral Communication

Culture and
Communication
 Objectives
Define Understand how
communication Show sensitivity to
intercultural takes place among one's background
communication people
 Essential
Question
Why is background knowledge
of one's culture important in
communication?
 Vocabulary Words
culture
the customary beliefs,
values, and attitudes of a
racial, religious, or social self-awareness
group an understanding of one’s
self and place in society
intercultural communication
communication between
individuals who have
different cultures taken aback
to be shocked or surprised,
particularly by something
exasperated said or done to you.
irritated or annoyed
 Culture
the system of knowledge that is shared
by a particular group composed of a
relatively large number of individuals
 Culture
When you identify yourself as being part of a particular
culture, you should not only share certain characteristics
with members of that group, but you should also be able to
observe yourself and others like you who possess these
features and distinguish others who do not have them as
members of a different culture.
 Through communication with others, culture is
created, learned, and shared. Without
communication, there is no way of preserving and
transmitting cultural characteristics from one
person, place, and time to another. In turn, our
culture influences the way we communicate with
others. Hence, there exists a dynamic relationship
between culture and communication. This is known
as intercultural communication.
 To engage in intercultural communication,
participants should essentially understand the
concept of self-awareness.
 Self-awareness is essential for better
communication with others, especially with those
who are different from you. Knowing who you
are and in which cultural and social group you
belong will enable you to relate better to
others and to show sensitivity to them. Also, the
way you communicate with others is largely
influenced by your view of them.
 Take a look at this example
Kyle is being introduced to the paternal relatives
of his half-Italian best friend, Sandro. He greets
Sandro’s grandparents with a pleasant “ciao.” The
grandparents seem taken aback at first, though
they greet Kyle warmly before going back to
their business. Puzzled at the reaction, Kyle turns
to Sandro, who is giving him an exasperated look.
 What? Did I say
something wrong?

You greeted my grandparents with

“ciao.” You should only use that
greeting with close friends or people
our age.

Oh, really? I’m sorry about

that. What should I have said?
 Since it’s evening, you should
have said “buona sera.”

Okay! I’ll remember that for

next time.
 Values Integration
As a senior high school student, how does
learning about intercultural communication
prepare you for possible study and career
opportunities abroad?
Social Status
and Religion
 Objectives
show sensitivity
to one’s social identify elements recognize how social
status and religion
status and of social class; and affect
religion; communication.
 Essential Question
How do you respect a person’s social
status and religion in communication?
 Vocabulary Words
social status (noun)
- a person’s stand religious belief (noun)
or position in societ - belief in the
existence of a
ascribe (verb) supernatural or
- to regard or spiritual aspect of
attribute a trait or religion
position to someone
hierarchy (noun) - a
system of
organization wherein
some things are
ranked above others
 Differences in social status may affect the way we
communicate with others. These differences can influence
the way that person chooses his or her peers. Individuals
are more likely to interact with others of the same social
standing as them. Also, there is likely to be a communication
gap between a person of higher status and that of lower
status since they differ in background, education, income,
and social habits, among others.

Social Status
There are two elements of social class:

Ascribed Social Status

is determined at birth
through characteristics such
as age, sex, race, and family
Achieved Social Status
background.
is acquired through a person’s
ability, talent, skill, and
perseverance. This can be seen
in their educational attainment
or occupation.
 n h a v in g a g r o u p m e a l
In South K o re a, w h e
, it is im p o lit e f or t h e
with cow o r k e r s
e st m e m b e rs to st a r t
newest an d y o un g
e o ld e r o r m o re s en ior
eating b ef or e t h
t w a it f or t h e o ld e st
employees. Th e y m u s
a st l if t th e ir
people to at le
e fo r e t h e y c a n s t a r t
utensils/ch o p s t ic k s b
eating.
 This example is indicative
of cultural customs
pertaining to hierarchy
based on age and
seniority. These types of
customs are very common
in East Asia, where people
place great importance on
seniority.
Religion
Communication between persons belonging to different religions may be a
common source of intercultural conflict. This usually arises when the
participants engaged in a conversation impose one’s religious views on
others who may not share those views. Being aware of religious
differences and being open to the religious views of others foster
understanding and mutual respect.
Here are some examples of religion as an influence in culture:
Here are some examples of religion as an influence in culture:
 With these in mind, the foundation of intercultural
communication in terms of social status and religion
lies in respect for each others’ differences. Always
be mindful of what another person will feel when
speaking about their position in society or religious
beliefs
Thank you
Oral Communication