Because the nonverbal component of communication is culture-specific, effective communication in a second language requires knowledge of the body language typical of speakers of that language. For example, Americans and Hispanics have a different sense of proxemics, Hispanics favoring closeness during conversation. Instruction in nonverbal communication can be introduced into the classroom, beginning with inventories of body language that are available for French, German, and Spanish. After determining which gestures students are to learn, practice in them must be included in the course materials. Classroom practice may involve role playing. Kinesic and proxemic behaviors are paired with the corresponding verbal components as the latter are introduced. Students' recognition and control of nonverbal patterns should be evaluated via student-prepared mini-dramas or other activities. A catalog of kinesic and proxemic behaviors for beginning Spanish students is appended. (JB)