Students will share their writing with each other. The teacher will explain that a simple, familiar interpersonal exchange such as a handshake can convey a number of different messages and that she is going to go around the room demonstrating. The teacher then approaches each student and, without saying anything, touches each one's hand in a different way. She may simply hold a student's hand like a little child holds the hand of an adult. Encourage them to write about how the touch made them feel as well as a description of the actual physical action.
Students read each other's finished paragraphs and attempt to replicate the touch described.
Remind them to use the written word only and no remembered visual clues. Ask for volunteers to demonstrate their finished products for the class. Follow with a class discussion and sharing. This is a great exercise to do early in the year, as it provides the teacher with a vehicle for personal interaction with each student. Even when the rare student reacts negatively, the teacher acquires a better understanding of that individual.