What are the most effective ways to use language to create a positive classroom environment?

1 Use inclusive language

Inclusive language is language that respects and acknowledges the diversity of your students, and avoids stereotypes, biases, or discrimination. For example, you can use gender-neutral terms, such as "they" or "students", instead of "he" or "girls", unless you know the preferences of your students. You can also avoid making assumptions about your students' backgrounds, abilities, or interests, and ask them how they would like to be addressed or referred to. Inclusive language can help your students feel valued, respected, and comfortable in your classroom.

4 Use engaging language

Engaging language is language that captures the attention, interest, and curiosity of your students, and avoids boredom, monotony, or indifference. For example, you can use questions, stories, and humor to spark discussions, elicit responses, and create rapport with your students. You can also use variety, tone, and gestures to modulate your voice, and avoid speaking in a flat, dull, or monotonous way. Engaging language can help your students enjoy learning, express themselves, and connect with you and their peers in your classroom.

5 Use respectful language

Respectful language is language that shows consideration, empathy, and appreciation for your students, and avoids rudeness, sarcasm, or criticism. For example, you can use polite forms, such as "could you" or "would you mind", instead of commands or orders, such as "do this" or "don't do that". You can also use empathetic statements, such as "I understand" or "I'm sorry", to acknowledge your students' feelings, concerns, or difficulties. Respectful language can help your students feel safe, trusted, and cared for in your classroom.

6 Use collaborative language

Collaborative language is language that promotes cooperation, teamwork, and mutual learning among your students, and avoids competition, isolation, or domination. For example, you can use plural pronouns, such as "we" or "us", instead of singular pronouns, such as "I" or "you", to create a sense of community and shared responsibility. You can also use inclusive phrases, such as "let's" or "how about", to invite your students to contribute, suggest, or decide together. Collaborative language can help your students work together, learn from each other, and build a positive classroom environment.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?