DISTANCE AND SPACE REQUIREMENTS

    People from different cultures have different space requirements. For example, South Americans and Middle Easterners stand closer when they talk or sit together than North Americans (let alone Britons!) or Asians.

In the US people need to have greater distances between them physically than people in many other cultures. Although Americans are often more affectionate and more likely to touch people they know, they have a need for privacy,especially in the presence of strangers. For example, when Americans enter a bus, doctor’s office or waiting room, they sit at least one chair away from the nearest person if possible.

Conversation distance with superiors or those they don’t know well is about 3 to 4 feet. However intimate conversations may be held as close as 1.5 feet apart. Because Americans feel uncomfortable if someone stands closer, they will instinctively move away. Should this happen, don’t be offended – your listener is merely stepping back to his or her conversational distance.

COMPARING AND SHARING

Here is a chart outlining how Americans greet each other. Compare these customs with the most habitual ways in this country. Demonstrate the body language you would use.

NOW YOU DO IT (моделирование ситуаций)

    There are quite a few topics you might discuss after introductions, greetings, etc. Your choices could include:

· The country you or the other person(s) come from (What is it like? How do the two countries compare?)

· The school ( subjects you specialize in, future careers, etc,)

· The work that the other person is engaged in (if they are willing to go into detail –see K. Fox)

· Family matters

· Current events, etc.

There are however some offensive subjects that you should not talk about, especially with someone you don’t know well:

1. How much money one has or makes

2. How much one paid for the dress, shoes, tie they have on

3. Sexual subjects

4. Class status or racial issues

5. The person’s age and weight

6. Religious beliefs