Sharroky Hollie seeks validation and affirmation of the nonverbal language practices our students bring with them During my early academic studies in linguistics, I was introduced to the six dimensions of language, a framework that has shaped every layer of linguistic understanding I have gained since. Their usefulness has truly stood the test of time. Even now, I can recite and explain them without hesitation: phonology (sounds), morphology (morphemes), syntax (grammar), semantics (meaning), pragmatics (nonverbal and contextual use), and discourse (discussion style and extended communication). Coupled with more than 20 years of experience working with thousands of educators across the