Oral Communication in

Context
Quarter 1 – Module 3:
Strategies to Avoid
Communication Breakdown
Oral Communication in Context
Alternative Delivery Mode
Quarter 1 – Module 3: Strategies to Avoid Communication Breakdown
First Edition, 2020

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Published by the Department of Education

Secretary: Leonor Magtolis Briones
Undersecretary: Diosdado M. San Antonio

Development Team of the Module

Writer: Jhon Jhon P. Zotomayor; Fely Rose M. Nacario

Editors: Marites M. Aguilar; Rizza A. Pereyra
Reviewer: Liza L. Banayo; Lea C. Villegas; Leilani J. Miranda; Erma S. Valenzuela;
Jhonathan S. Cadavido
Illustrator: Joseph O. Ocfemia
Layout Artist: Allan E. Medenilla
Management Team:
Regional Director: Wilfredo E. Cabral
CLMD Chief: Job S. Zape Jr.
Regional EPS In Charge of LRMS: Eugenio S. Adrao
Regional ADM Coordinator: Elaine T. Balaogan
Schools Division Superintendent/s: Edna Faura-Agustin; Marites A. Ibañez
Assistant Schools Division Superintendent/s: Nicholas M. Burgos;
Edgardo B. Militante;
CID Chief/s: Mary Ann L. Tatlongmaria; Orlando T. Valverde
Division EPS/s In Charge of LRMS: Evelyn P. De Castro; Godofredo C. Mercado

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ii
Oral Communication
in Context
Quarter 1 – Module 3:
Strategies to Avoid
Communication Breakdown

iii
Introductory Message
For the facilitator:

Welcome to the Oral Communication in Context 11 Alternative Delivery Mode (ADM) Module
on Strategies to Avoid Communication Breakdown!

This module was collaboratively designed, developed and reviewed by educators both from
public and private institutions to assist you, the teacher or facilitator in helping the learners
meet the standards set by the K to 12 Curriculum while overcoming their personal, social,
and economic constraints in schooling.

This learning resource hopes to engage the learners into guided and independent learning
activities at their own pace and time. Furthermore, this also aims to help learners acquire the
needed 21st century skills while taking into consideration their needs and circumstances.

In addition to the material in the main text, you will also see this box in the body of the
module:

Notes to the Teacher

This contains helpful tips or strategies
that will help you in guiding the learners.

As a facilitator you are expected to orient the learners on how to use this module. You also
need to keep track of the learners' progress while allowing them to manage their own
learning. Furthermore, you are expected to encourage and assist the learners as they do the
tasks included in the module.

iv
For the learner:

Welcome to the Oral Communication in Context 11 Alternative Delivery Mode (ADM) Module
on Strategies to Avoid Communication Breakdown!

The hand is one of the most symbolized part of the human body. It is often used to depict
skill, action and purpose. Through our hands, we may learn, create and accomplish. Hence,
the hand in this learning resource signifies that you as a learner are capable and empowered
to successfully achieve the relevant competencies and skills at your own pace and time.
Your academic success lies in your own hands!

This module was designed to provide you with fun and meaningful opportunities for guided
and independent learning at your own leap and speed. You will be enabled to process the
contents of the learning resource while being an active learner.

This module has the following parts and corresponding icons:

What I Need to Know This will give you an idea of the skills or
competencies you are expected to learn in the
module.

What I Know This part includes an activity that aims to check

what you already know about the lesson to take.
If you get all the answers correct (100%), you
may decide to skip this module.

What’s In This is a brief drill or review to help you link the

current lesson with the previous one.

What’s New In this portion, the new lesson will be introduced

to you in various ways such as a story, a song, a
poem, a problem opener, an activity or a
situation.

What is It This section provides a brief discussion of the

lesson. This aims to help you discover and
understand new concepts and skills.

What’s More This comprises activities for independent practice

to solidify your understanding and skills of the
topic. You may check the answers to the
exercises using the Answer Key at the end of the
module.

What I Have Learned This includes questions or blank

sentence/paragraph to be filled in to process
what you learned from the lesson.

What I Can Do This section provides an activity which will help

you transfer your new knowledge or skill into real

v
 life situations or concerns.

Assessment This is a task which aims to evaluate your level of

mastery in achieving the learning competency.

Additional Activities In this portion, another activity will be given to

you to enrich your knowledge or skill of the
lesson learned. This also tends retention of
learned concepts.

Answer Key This contains answers to all activities in the

module.

At the end of this module you will also find:

References This is a list of all sources used in

developing this module.

The following are some reminders in using this module:

1. Use the module with care. Do not put unnecessary mark/s on any part of the module.
Use a separate sheet of paper in answering the exercises.
2. Do not forget to answer What I Know before moving on to the other activities
included in the module.
3. Read the directions carefully before doing each task.
4. Observe honesty and integrity in doing the tasks and checking your answers.
5. Finish the task at hand before proceeding to the next.
6. Return this module to your teacher/facilitator once you are through with it.
If you encounter any difficulty in answering the tasks in this module, do not hesitate to
consult your teacher or facilitator. Always bear in mind that you are not alone.

We hope that through this material, you will experience meaningful learning and gain
deep understanding of the relevant competencies. You can do it!

What I Need to Know

This module was designed and written with you in mind. It is here to help you
identify various strategies that could be used in order to avoid communication
breakdown. It will lead you to understanding how communication works among
people to foster mutual understanding and good relationship. The scope of this
module permits it to be used in many different learning situations. The language
used recognizes the diverse vocabulary level of students. The lessons are arranged

vi
to follow the standard sequence of the course. But the order in which you read
them can be changed to correspond with the textbook you are now using.

This module is divided into two lessons, namely:

 Lesson 1: Communication Breakdown
 Lesson 2: Various Strategies to Avoid Communication Breakdown

After going through this module, you are expected to:

1. define the concept of communication breakdown;
2. identify the different kinds of barriers to effective communication;
3. explain the causes of communication breakdown; and
4. use appropriate strategies to avoid communication breakdown and achieve
the goals of relationship and community building.

What I Know

A. Choose the letter of the best answer. Write the chosen letter on the separate sheet of
paper.

1. It happens when the sender fails to communicate his/her message properly or when
the intended message is not clearly understood by the receiver.
A. communication
B. communication barrier
C. strategies to avoid communication barriers
D. process of communication

2. It refers to the natural or environmental conditions that hinder a successful

communication transaction.
A. cultural barrier
B. external noise
C. physical barrier
D. psychological barrier

3. These are issues like trauma, lack of confidence, fear, anger, frustration, and
depression that may affect the communication process.
A. external Noise
B. linguistic barrier
C. psychological barrier
D. semantic Noise

4. It refers to the way a person responds in a communication situation affected by

personal norms and traditions.
A. cultural barrier

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 B. linguistic barrier
C. physical barrier
D. psychological barrier

5. This is an example when linguistic barrier to communication becomes evident.

A. A professor explains his lessons eloquently in class.
B. Elena is afraid to deliver her opening remarks.
C. People do not understand each other’s language.
D. The transmitter disrupted the speech of Ms. Speaker.

6. This is one of the reasons why cultural diversity can make communication inefficient.
A. Cultural diversity allows people to be unique and original.
B. Different culture interpret words, gestures, and symbols differently.
C. Traditions propagate through the preservation of norms and values.
D. Values of people reflect

7. It is the main cause of semantic noise.

A. jeepneys beeping
B. constructing building
C. using excessive technical jargon
D. people talking too loud

B. Choose the letter of the best answer. Write the chosen letter on the separate sheet of
paper.

8. Which best defines NOISE in the context of communication?

A. It is the sound of karaoke from your neighbor.
B. It is any sound that occurs during the communication process.
C. It is a sound that blocks or interferes communication situations.
D. It is anything that interferes with the communication.

9. Which of the following is an example of psychological barrier?

A. ability to read minds
B. dissatisfaction to customer service
C. inattentiveness to detail
D. poor listening skills

10. Which factors are considered cultural barriers to communication?

A. economic status, age, and gender
B. ethics, standards, and grammar
C. politics, administration and government
D. religion, World Meanings, and Philosophy

11. Why does communication breakdown occur?

A. because the information is overloading.

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 Lesson
Communication
1 Breakdown
B. because of lack of attention among the audiences or receivers.
C. because the listener or receiver has a very short attention span.
D. All of the above

12. Which does NOT belong to the group?

A. external noise
B. internal noise
C. semantic noise
D. verbal noise

13. “Mrs. Erlinda was invited as a speaker during the National Women’s Month.
She talked about Gender Equality. She delivered her speech for almost 1
hour with more than 50 slides. The audience appeared uneasy and seemed
uninterested after 20 minutes.”
What barrier of communication is evident in this situation?
A. cultural barrier
B. linguistic barrier
C. physiological Barrier
D. psychological Barrier

14. Which communication situation displays physiological barrier?

A. The General Parents and Teachers Association (GPTA) president felt
nervous when he started to speak in front of all the parents and
guardians.
B. The Municipal Agriculture officer is discussing certain agricultural
crops management procedure in a community that is not very familiar
with the topic.
C. The newly designated general manager of the restaurant was a bit
hesitant to talk with the guests.
D. The research teacher discusses with his students about the problem
when a song was played loudly from the other classroom.

15. Which situation BEST exemplifies communication breakdown?

A. adjusting your language depending on the people you are talking to
B. incorrect labeling of handouts to be used in product distribution
C. listening to your friend’s heartaches and unsuccessful love stories
D. looking for the positive characteristics or strengths of a speaker

In Module 2, you have learned about the models of communication. You have
realized how the different elements of communication work together to achieve a

ix
successful communication transaction. Now, let us find out if you can still
remember your previous lesson by answering the activity below.

What’s In

Directions: Put the phrases or statements in the correct column. Write the letter of
your answer.

Linear Model Interactive Transactional Model

A. Schramm Model of Communication

B. Shannon Weaver Model of Communication
C. a two-way communication process where feedback is given after a
message is sent.
D. shows circular process between the sender and receiver.
E. barriers affect the smooth flow of communication
F. a one-way communication process.
G. having a job interview
H. reciting a poem in front of the class
I. presiding an important meeting
J. focusing on the message sent.

What’s New

Communication is a process of exchanging thoughts, ideas, and opinions in order

to connect with other people. It’s goal is to achieve a clear and effective
understanding resulting to good relationships in the community. However, there
are times when this goal is not reached due to certain factors. When this happens,
there is communication breakdown.

x
Directions: Identify the reasons for the communication breakdown in each picture.
Write your answer in a separate sheet of paper similar to the box below.

What is It

The elements involved in communication are important in the success or failure of

this process. These very same elements (sender, message, receiver, feedback, etc)
can pose a threat to the efficiency or effectiveness of the process. Communication
breakdown may occur when problems in any of the elements involved arise. They
become barriers to communication.

Simply put, communication breakdown results when the intended message of the
sender is not understood exactly by the receiver. Barriers to communication are
present.

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Recognizing the barriers or obstacles to effective communication is important in
order to avoid communication breakdown. Here are some of the barriers that may
cause communication failure.

Barriers to Communication

Physical Barriers are the natural or environmental condition that act as a

barrier in communication in sending the message from sender to receiver.
Examples:
1. People talking too loud.
2. Noise from a construction site
3. Loud sound of a karaoke
4. Blaring of jeepney horns

Psychological Barriers are called as mental barriers. These refer to social and
personal issues of a speaker towards communicating with others.
Examples:
1. trauma
2. shyness, lack of confidence
3. depression
4. fear, stage fright

Cultural Barriers pertain to communication problems encountered by people

regarding their intrinsic values, beliefs, and traditions in conflict with others.
People’s culture affect the way they communicate and relate to others
Examples:
1. different beliefs
2. traditions, and customs
3. manners of dressing
4. speaking

Linguistic Barriers pertain conflicts with regard to language and word

meanings. Because words carry denotative and connotative meanings, they
can sometimes cause confusion and misunderstanding. Meaning of words and
symbols also vary depending on culture.
Examples:
1. difference in language
2. accent and dialect
3. use of jargon and slang
4. speech defects or language impairments

Verderber (1991) gives a similar idea of barrier when he classifies noise into three
kinds: External, Internal and Semantic noise.

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 External Noises are the “sight, sound and other stimuli that
draw people’s attention away from intended meaning.”

Examples:
1. noise from vehicles
2. singing at the neighborhood
3. visual aids in front of the classroom
4. the dog barking
5. the sound of airplane

Internal noises are the “thoughts and feelings that interfere with
meaning.”

Examples:
1. confrontation with a friend
2. fear of speaking in front of the class.
3. racial prejudice

Semantic noises are the “alternate meanings aroused by a speaker’s

symbols.” This idea means that a word may have another meaning in
the minds of the students. This is affected by the language in which
they grew and the culture in which they are exposed.

Examples:
1. incorrect grammar
2. using excessive technical jargon
3. using idiomatic expressions

What’s More

Activity 1
Directions: Identify the kind of communication barrier exemplified by each
description. Tell whether it is Physiological, Psychological, Cultural, or Linguistic
Barrier. Write your answer on a separate sheet of paper.

______________________ 1. lack of confidence

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______________________ 2. connotative and denotative meaning
______________________ 3. loud party
______________________ 4. different races
______________________ 5. poor lighting
______________________ 6. lack of interest and attention
______________________ 7. different views and opinions
______________________ 8. using idiomatic expressions
______________________ 9. information overload
______________________ 10. feel frustrated

Activity 2
Directions: Explain why there is communication breakdown on the given
situations. Again, write your answer on a separate sheet.

1. Jay and Michelle started talking about their plans on Christmas Vacation
when their classmate, Moy, interrupted them.
___________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
2. “Mama, I will buy this cake for you. I am very sure that you will like its taste.
It’s from our favorite cake store!”
___________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
3. You spent the night thinking and analyzing why a student from another
class talked to you on your way home.
___________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
4. Livy encounters a participant who is very eager to share with others her
views and opinions. She does this without asking permission.
___________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
5. In some Asian countries, direct eye contact is considered disrespectful and
rude. In others, it is a must.
___________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

What I Have Learned

Directions: Explain your understanding on the given questions. Write your answer
on the separate sheet of paper.

1. What is communication breakdown?

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 ___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________

2. What are the barriers to communication?

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________

3. Why does breakdown of communication occur?

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________

What I Can Do

Interview some people and ask them about a past communication breakdown they
have experienced and what was its cause.
1.1. Complete the table by answering the following questions:
a. Who were the persons involved?
b. What was the situation?
c. When did the communication breakdown happen?
d. What were the barriers to communication?
e. What happened due to the communication breakdown?

1.2 Identify the cause of the communication breakdown.

An example is provided for you:

Persons Situation Time of Barrier/s to Result
Involved Communication Communication
Aling Aling Celia When Reysa was Physiological Aling Celia was
Celia and asked Reysa watching her Barrier upset because
Reysa to wash the favorite anime Reysa did not
(Mother & dishes. series do as told.
Daughter)

What was the cause of communication breakdown?

Reysa’s lack of attention caused the communication breakdown.

Now, do the following on your own. Interview someone from home, school and
community.

xv
 Persons Situation Time of Barrier/s to Result
Involved Communication Communication

What was the cause of the communication breakdown?

_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

Assessment

Choose the letter of the best answer. Write the chosen letter on a separate sheet of
paper.

1. What influence the interpretation of conversation to effective

communication?
A. environment C. noise
B. language D. technological gadgets

2. When is the communication process complete?

A. when the message enters the channel of communication
B. when the receiver understands the message and feedback
C. when the sender transmits message to the receiver
D. when the sender transmits the message successfully

3. Which of the following must be avoided in communication breakdown?

A. Ambiguity C. personal interpretation
B. focused attention D. Both A and B

4. Which barrier includes the mental conditions of the listener?

A. cultural barrier C. physical barrier
B. linguistic barrier D. psychological barrier

5. Which barrier includes the hearing or sight problem of the listener?

A. cultural barrier C. physical barrier

xvi
 B. linguistic barrier D. Both A and C

6. In which barrier can semantic noise be classified?

A. cultural barrier C. physical barrier
B. linguistic barrier D. Both A and C

7. Which of the following must the listener do to avoid mental noise?

A. Be ready for the communication activity.
B. Be attentive and respond to the speaker.
C. Just remain quiet and daydream
D. Must not think of any problem during class hours

8. In which barrier does gender be classified in communication?

A. cultural barrier C. Physical barrier
B. linguistic barrier D. Both B and C

9. Which is the best option in order to avoid misinterpretation that causes

communication barrier?
A. Be familiar with the topic of the speaker.
B. Disconnect with your emotional baggage.
C. Do not be conscious of gender or status.
D. Inquire the meaning.

10. What is the barrier to which you classify withdrawal of listener?

A. cultural barrier C. physical barrier
B. linguistic barrier D. psychological barrier

For numbers 11-15, write T if the statement is TRUE and write F if it is FALSE.

_______1. Inability to understand a message causes failure in

communication.
_______2. The actual message is lost in transmission.
_______3. Emotional problems can sometimes color one’s understanding of a
message.
_______4. Culture may affect the interpretation of meaning in
communication.
_______5. Pictures, gadgets, and other paraphernalia in front of the stage
engage the audience in listening to the speaker.

xvii
 Additional Activities

Choose between offline activity or online activity.

For Offline Activity

Write a letter to your teacher about your personal learning on communication

breakdown. Include in your letter, how this lesson can be useful in your daily life
particularly at home, in school, and in the community.

Rubric for Writing a Letter

Excellent Poor Needs

Criteria (5 points) Very Good (2 points) Improvement
Good (3 points) (1 point)
(4 points)
Content Show very Shows Enumerates Lacks No details
meaningful meaningful significant evidence provided
content, content points that
explanation complete related to connect to
and relation with the topic the
to real-world explanation provided
context topic
Mechanics Sentence Insignificant A few errors Some errors Sentence
structures errors in in sentence in sentence structure is
are well - sentence structure, structure, incorrect,
defined, structure, grammar, grammar, grammar is
accurate, and grammar, spelling and spelling and poor, and
clear with no spelling and punctuation punctuation errors in
spelling, punctuation are noted. are present. spelling and
punctuation are noted. punctuation
and grammar abound
errors.
Organization Ideas are very Ideas are Ideas are Ideas are No evidence of
well focused and slightly loosely organization of
organized, directed. organized organized. ideas.
coherence
and cohesion
are very
evident.
Score
Total Score / 15 points

xviii
For Online Activity

Create a 5 Minute Vlog about communication breakdown. Be sure that the

definition and explanation why there is a communication breakdown are evident in
the video. Send to your teacher the link of your presentation.

Rubric for Creating a Vlog

Excellent Very Poor Needs

Criteria (5 points) Good Good (2 points) Improveme
(4 points) (3 points) nt
(1 point)

Content Presents Presents ideas Presents ideas Lacks No connection

accurate, strongly in relation to evidence that to the
complete connected to the given topic connect provided topic
and well- the given presentation
explained topic to the
ideas provided topic
related to
the topic
Organizatio Informatio Information, Information, Information, No evidence of
n, video, video, video, pictures video, pictures organization
n
pictures pictures and and other and other of
and other other content content are content are information,
content are are focused slightly loosely video, pictures
very well and directed. organized organized. and other
organized, content.
and
coherence
and
cohesion
are very
evident.
Technicalit Visuals are Visuals are Visuals are Visuals are Visuals are
well- maintained maintained in maintained in not in many
y
framed and audio or most parts a few parts parts and
and audio sound quality and audio or and audio or audio or
or sound is sound quality sound quality sound quality
quality is understandab are are are poor
excellent le and understandabl understandabl throughout.
and appropriate. e and e and
suitable appropriate.al appropriate.al
throughout so in most so in most
. parts. parts.
Score
Total Score / 15 points

xix
 Answer Key

What I Know What’s In What’s New

1. B Linear Model Answers may vary

2. C B What's More
3. C F
4. A H Activity 1
5. C J 1. Psychological
6. B 2. Linguistic
7. C Interactive 3. Physiological
8. D A 4. Cultural Barrier
9. B C 5. Physiological Barrier
10. A G 6. Psychological
11. D 7. Cultural
12. D Transactional Model 8. Linguistic
13. C D 9. Psychological
14. D E 10. Psychological
15. B I

Activity 2
Answers may vary

What I have learned Assessment

1. Communication Breakdown 1. C
happens when the transmitted 2. B
message is not understood 3. D
exactly by the receiver 4. D
5. B
2. Physiological, Psychological, 6. B
Cultural, Linguistic, 7. B
8. A
3. Answers may vary 9. B
What I Can Do 10. B
11. True
answers may vary 12. False
13. True
14. True
15. False

xx
 What I Know

Choose the letter of the best answer. Write the chosen letter on a separate sheet of
paper.

1. It takes place when the shared information is mutually understood.

A. barriers to communication C. effective communication
B. communication D. strategies to effective
communication

2. It refers to the use of appropriate speaking volume, rate, acceptable

pronunciation, and proper stressing.
A. keep focused C. minimize distractions
B. listen with your ears and eyes D. speak intelligently

3. It helps to pay attention to the verbal message as well as the nonverbal

message.
A. keep focused C. minimize distractions
B. listen with your ears and eyes D. speak intelligently

4. It uses concise and simple words to deliver the message.

A. be specific C. minimize distractions
B. do not jump to conclusions D. speak intelligently

5. It is important for a receiver to analyze first the message of the sender before
he/she accepts or reject them.
A. barriers to communication C. do not jump to conclusions
B. be specific D. effective communication

Fill out the blank to complete the statements. Write the chosen letter on a separate
sheet of paper.

6. Complete communication is ___________to the quality of the communication

process in general.
A. essential C. part
B. needed D. reliable

7. ___________ is making the message direct and straight to the point.

___________ information should be eliminated from the communication that
will be sent to the recipient.
A. Clarity…significant C. Concreteness…insignificant
B. Conciseness…insignificant D. Courtesy…significant

xxi
 8. In order to be an effective speaker, you should always ___________ significant
information about your receiver’s mood, race, background, preferences,
education, and others.
A. consider C. rate
B. hold D. think

9. Concrete message is supported by facts, figures, and real life examples. This
will make the receiver to ___________________________.
A. develop rapport to the speaker.
B. realize the importance of communication process.
C. respond quickly to the message.
D. understand the message better.

10.As a speaker, you want to deliver a clear message to the audience or

receiver. Therefore, you will __________________ .
A. know their background information
B. include everything in your message
C. respect their culture, values, and beliefs
D. use of simple and specific words to express ideas

Choose the letter of the best answer. Write the chosen letter on a separate sheet of
paper.

11.Which of the following shows positive feedback or remark?

A. You cooperate consistently with your team members.
B. You display concerned about the other’s job so often but not yours.
C. You show dishonesty in working among with your colleagues.
D. You urge to distract everyone in the office.

12.Which of the following display the best question and show politeness in
asking for repetition?
A. Could you be more specific?
B. I don’t understand what you said. Could you say it again?
C. Will you please repeat the instruction?
D. Both A and B

13.Which of the following does NOT show polite expression?

A. May I borrow your pen for a moment?
B. Order me a coffee.
C. Perhaps I’m not making myself clear.
D. Tell me, when you are available.

14.Which is NOT a time-gaining expression?

A. “Anyway”
B. “Sounds good”
C. “Tell me more.”
D. “Uh-huh”

15.Which is the BEST expression for asking for a repetition?

A. I’m sorry, would you mind saying that again.
B. Sorry, I didn’t get your point.
C. Sorry, let me explain.
D. What do you mean by that?

xxii
Lesson
Various Strategies to Avoid
2 Communication Breakdown

What’s In

In Lesson 1, you have learned the concept of communication breakdown and its
causes. Now, you will understand how this breakdown of communication can be
avoided.

Directions: List down two (2) to three (3) situations based on your What I Can Do
Activity in Lesson 1 in which communication breakdowns were experienced at
home, school, and community. Then, suggest one best strategy to avoid that
communication breakdown.
Example:
Breakdown: The DOST scholar uses technical words in explaining his research
to the barangay secretariats which resulted to confusion among them.
Strategy: The DOST scholar should use simple and specific words about his
research to the barangay secretariats so they would fully understand his
message.

Experiences of Communication Strategies to Avoid Communication

Breakdown Breakdown

xxiii
 What’s New

The process of communication does not mention and explain about the barriers or
problems that may be encountered in a communication transaction. They are
simply implied or understood in the process. However, after understanding the
concept of communication breakdown and its causes, we may realize that failure in
communication may be avoided through certain strategies that we could adapt.

Here is an article entitled 5 Ways to Avoid Communication Breakdown by Ronnie

Peterson.

5 Ways to Avoid Communication Breakdown

by Ronnie Peterson
Communication breakdown can cause issues or problems at home, school,
and community. There are so many barriers to communication like,
physiological, psychological, cultural, and linguistics.
Sometimes some communication barriers are too difficult to solve and this will
lead to slowing the progress and efficiency.
Here are the possible strategies to avoid communication breakdown:

1. Have Clarity of thought before speaking

Arrange your thoughts before verbalizing them this can help you
communicate much more clearly and succinctly. It's a better idea to say
something like, "I've got a few ideas here. Let me go through them one at
a time. We can treat each one on its own merit."

2. Learn to Listen
As simple as it sounds, you’ll be surprised how many people out there
don’t know how to listen well.

Not understanding those who you are trying to communicate with will
lead to a conversation fraught with misunderstandings. Don’t be afraid
to ask them to repeat or explain further in polite manner once you don’t
understand the point.

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 3. Take Care of your Body Language and Tone
Keep your emotions in check, try to maintain eye contact, and adopt a
relaxed tone when conversing with others.

4. Build up your confidence by asking for feedback and observing

others
Focus on improving your skills by practicing in front of those who you
may feel more comfortable with. You can also ask those whose advice
you value to give you feedback and critique your communication style
after a discussion.

5. Communicate Face to Face on the important issues

Having that face to face dialogue means you can convey your point more
clearly, with your body language as well as your tone of voice.

It can also help to clear up any misunderstandings or distortion of the

message that could occur through other mediums.
Remember, becoming a strong and effective communicator takes time and
practice. Over time, using these strategies can lead to better communication in
your personal relationships, and more productive workplace environments as
well.

Answer the following questions based on the article above.

1. What are the barriers to communication mentioned from the article?

______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________

2. How can communication breakdowns be avoided?

______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________

3. In your opinion, which is the easiest and most difficult way to avoid
communication breakdown?

______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________

4. Do you think effective communication avoid communication breakdown?

Why or why not? Do you agree that becoming a strong and effective
communicator takes time and practice? Why or why not?

______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________

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 What is It

A smooth and successful communication transaction may result if we follow some

particular strategies to deliver our message. Communication becomes successful if
and only if our communication goal is achieved, that is, an understanding is
reached and a relationship is built or maintained.

Here are some strategies to avoid communication breakdown.

Keep Focused
One way of being focused is to put in mind the purpose communication. As a
speaker identify your purpose for speaking and as a listener find the speaker’s
purpose thru his/her verbal and non-verbal cues.

Speak Intelligibly
Speaking intelligibly or clearly means using the appropriate speaking volume,
pitch rate, proper enunciation, stress, and acceptable pronunciation. We
speak in order to be understood.

Listen with your Ears and Eyes

Pay attention to verbal and non-verbal message. Effective communication
depends on what people say and how they say it.

Minimize Distractions
Look for a place where you can minimize distractions or noise like closed area,
empty room, or quiet places. Lessening the cause for confusion means giving
more room to focus and concentrate.

Be Specific
Use simple and concise words as much as possible in delivering a message.
Being specific means being particular and direct to the point.

Do not Jump to Conclusions

Before you give your comments and judgement, be sure that you have listened
attentively to the speaker. Conclusions should be drawn after a thorough
analysis of point given or information received.

Tips on How to Avoid Communication Breakdown

Broom, Cutlip and Center (2012) listed the 7Cs of Effective Communication in
their book Effective Public Relations. These are Completeness, Conciseness,
Consideration, Concreteness, Courtesy, Clearness, and Correctness.

Completeness
It is important to whole communication process. The speaker should
include everything that the receiver needs to hear, respond, react, or
evaluate properly. S/he should be able to convey all pertinent details so
listener or audience will be able xxvi
to grasp the intended message.

Conciseness
Courtesy
The speaker can show respect to his/her receivers through
understanding their culture, values, and beliefs. The speaker can show
respect to the listeners by demonstrating an understanding of their
beliefs, values, and culture. This implies good choice of words and
language and a consideration of the audience’s perspectives and feelings
on the part of the sender. Showing courtesy helps create a positive vibe
with the audience. This implies good choice of words and language on
the part of the sender and consideration of audience’s perspectives.

Clearness
It implies the use of simple and specific words to express ideas. When
the speaker focuses on specific ideas, it will not confuse the audience.

Correctness
Avoiding mistakes in grammar helps to boost the credibility and
effectiveness of the message, and at the same time it eliminates negative
impact on the audience.

Breakdowns in communication may arise because of several factors. But these

factors may be avoided if we follow strategies put forward by experts in the field.
Communication is a transaction that we do everyday. By following the 7 Cs of
communication espoused by Broom, Cutlip and Center (2012), we may achieve
understanding in communicating with others and avoid confusion and
misinterpretations.

Avoiding communication breakdown helps you to be an effective speaker. Below are

some strategies which you can use to avoid breakdown communication.

Helpful Expressions to Avoid Communication Breakdown

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 Strategies to Avoid Communication Helpful Expressions
Breakdown
Use helpful expressions to gain time “Really”
to think “Uhmm”
“Uh-huh”
“Anyway”
“Tell me more…”
Give positive remarks or comments “”Sounds good”
“I see what you mean”
Ask for repetition “Can you please what you said?”
“What did you say again?”
“What did you mean, when you say
that…”
Check for understanding “So, are you saying that…”
“So, what is your understanding of
this?”

What’s More

Activity 1

Directions: Match column A with the best answer in column B. Write your answer
on the space provided.
Column A Column B
_____ 1. It refers to the use of simple and A. Keep Focused
precise words.
_____ 2. The speaker should identify his/her B. Be Specific
purpose for speaking.
_____ 3. He/she must pays attention to the C. Do not Jump to
verbal and non-verbal cues. Conclusions
_____ 4. He/she must find closed areas or quiet D. Speak
plays to avoid communication Intelligibly
breakdown.
_____ 5. He/she must have an appropriate E. Listen with
speaking volume, speech rate, and your ears and
acceptable enunciation. eyes
F. Minimize
Distractions

Activity 2

xxviii
Directions: Identify what 7Cs to Effective Communication is being described. Write
your answer on the space provided.

__________________ 1. It helps to increase the credibility of the speaker and

reduce negative impact to the audience.
__________________ 2. It conveys all pertinent details so listener or audience
will be able to grasp the intended message.
__________________ 3. It is expressed in the least possible number of words
and straight to the point.
__________________ 4. It implies good choice of words and language and a
consideration of the audience’s perspectives and
feelings on the part of the sender.
__________________ 5. It is backed up by facts, figures, and real-life examples
or situations.

Activity 3

Directions: Think of another helpful expression for each of the following

expressions below to avoid communication breakdown. Put your answer in each
box.

Time-gaining Expression

Give Positive Remark or Comment

Ask for a Repetition

Check for Understanding

What I Have Learned

xxix
Directions: Complete the diagram on how to avoid communication breakdown.

Strategies on how to Avoid

Communication Breakdown

Helpful Expressions to
Strategies on How to 7 Cs of Effective
Avoid Communication
Avoid Communication Communication
Breakdown
Breakdown

What I Can Do

Assessment

Conduct an interview either online or offline with five (5) SHS students about their
experiences on communication breakdowns. Summarize their experiences and
decide the most appropriate strategy to avoid each communication breakdown.
Explain your reason for each strategy.
Strategy to Avoid
Respondent Experiences Communication Breakdown

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 3

Directions: Read the statements comprehensively. Then, identify whether correct

or not. Write TRUE if it is correct and FALSE if it is not.

__________________ 1. Concreteness creates positive impact to the

audience
__________________ 2. Clearness helps in eliminating confusions among
the audience.
__________________ 3. Grammar mistakes eliminate negative impacts
among the receivers.
__________________ 4. Rapport is created when considering the
background of the receivers.
__________________ 5. Communication becomes effective when it is
supported by facts, figures, and examples.
__________________ 6. As a speaker, you have to use technical words in
order to impress the crowds.
__________________ 7. Complete message is important to the process of
communication particularly with the receivers.
__________________ 8. Giving positive remarks shows interest in a
conversation.
__________________ 9. The expression “So, are you saying that…” asks for
repetition.
__________________ 10. Use polite expressions when asking for
clarifications.
__________________ 11. You may use appropriate speaking volume, pitch
rate, proper enunciation, stress, and acceptable
pronunciation.
__________________ 12. Accept the ideas of the sender even without full
understanding of the message.
__________________ 13. The speaker should know his purpose before he
speaks.
__________________ 14. You must pay attention only in verbal cues.
__________________ 15. To limit distractions, stay beside the basketball
court.

Additional Activities

xxxi
Directions: Write your own 5 Tips on how to avoid communication breakdown.
Include a brief explanation for each tip.
Rubric
Excellent Poor Needs
Criteria (5 points) Very Good (2 points) Improvement
Good (3 points) (1 point)
(4 points)
Content Show very Shows Enumerates Lacks No details
meaningful meaningful significant evidence provided
content, content points that
explanation complete related to connect to
and relation with the topic the
to real-world explanation provided
context topic
Mechanics Sentence Insignificant A few errors Some errors Sentence
structures errors in in sentence in sentence structure is
are well - sentence structure, structure, incorrect,
defined, structure, grammar, grammar, grammar is
accurate, and grammar, spelling and spelling and poor, and
clear with no spelling and punctuation punctuation errors in
spelling, punctuation are noted. are present. spelling and
punctuation are noted. punctuation
and grammar abound
errors.
Organization Ideas are very Ideas are Ideas are Ideas are No evidence of
well focused and slightly loosely organization of
organized, directed. organized organized. ideas.
coherence
and cohesion
are very
evident.
Score
Total Score / 15 points

Answer Key

What I Know What’s More

Activity 1
What’s In 1. B
1. C
2. D Answers may vary. 2. A
3. B 3. E
4. A 4. F
5. C 5. D
6. A
What’s New Activity 2
7. B
8. A Answers may vary. 1. Correct Grammar
9. D 2. Completeness
10. D 3. Conciseness
11. A 4. Courtesy
12. C 5. Concreteness
13. B
14. B Actvity 3
xxxii
15. A Answers may vary
References

2018. Businestopia. January 6. Accessed May 30, 2020.

https://www.businesstopia.net/communication/physical-barriers.
Peterson, Ronnie. n.d. The ZandaX Communication Blog. Accessed May 31, 2020.
https://www.zandax.com/blog/5-ways-to-avoid-communication-barriers-in-
any-environment.
Quipper. Accessed May 30, 2020.
https://link.quipper.com/en/organizations/547fe0e1d11ff00002002002/
curriculum#curriculum.
Sipacio, Philippe John F., and Balgos, Anne Richie G. 2016. Oral Communication in
Context for Senior High School. Quezon City. C & E Publishing Inc.

xxxiii
For inquiries or feedback, please write or call:

Department of Education - Bureau of Learning Resources (DepEd-BLR)

Ground Floor, Bonifacio Bldg., DepEd Complex

Meralco Avenue, Pasig City, Philippines 1600

Telefax: (632) 8634-1072; 8634-1054; 8631-4985

Email Address: [email protected] * [email protected]

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