3 Steps to Cleaner Language in the Classroom
When speaking to students, I used to use the word 'guy' to mean 'you'. I might say, "Are we ready to move on guys?" My intention was to include everyone, so 'you' was plural and neutral in my mind. It did not always land well with all the students. I could tell because there were infinitesimal silences. Initially, I ignored the silences because, like every other teacher, I needed to get on to the next part of the lesson...
As I grew in experience and confidence, I learned that micro silences were important.
I learned to ask, "What's up guys?" and wait for an answer. However, I would only get an answer from the boldest of students who had the courage to speak out; and only if they were sensitive to the word I had just used. So, I gave everyone the opportunity to write me a note, anonymously if that helped. I promised to read and consider their notes. I promised to listen to their feedback, without detriment to their grades. I would tell them, "I am always learning ways to be a better teacher. You, in this case, are my teachers."
There are many reasons for teachers to consider removing particular words:
Two ways to start this work
A) This work is best done Collaboratively. Get your students to do most of the work. Set them the task of researching the words and phrases other people find annoying. (See suggestions below)
"Good morning. Today we are going on a word hunt. If there are words I use that annoy or upset you, let me know. I give you permission to tell me directly or write me a note. You don't have to write your name."
B) Compare Intention with Meaning. Create space for pausing and considering how words and phrases are heard by others. Allow for mistakes to be made. Allow for corrections to be made. Make a wall chart of the changes and reasons.
"Good afternoon. Today I want to bring your attention to the many languages and cultures we have in this class. It's an exciting challenge to be your teacher. I enjoy most of what we do together. Sometimes I say things that seem okay to me; but are not okay with you. Sometimes you say things that seem okay to you; but are not okay with me. It happens because we are from different countries, and from different generations. Sometimes I use old words and phrases that you understand differently than I meant. Sometimes you use new words and phrases that I understand differently than you meant. Today, we are allowed to pause and rethink what we say, so that others understand what we intend them to understand."
There is a 'rule'. Whatever your intention might be, the meaning of what you said, is the value others attach to your words. Even if you had good intentions when you used that phrase, consider replacing that phrase with another.
Three sources of words to consider removing
I went fishing in the pool of general knowledge and found these fish to share with you:
1) Yes, but… maybe. Should, must, maybe, can’t etc
When we use these phrases we are using language like a stick to beat ourselves and others…
2) Old phrases that hide negativity
We use phrases without knowing their true origin and meaning. Here are a couple of examples:
Basket case: The term actually comes from WWI slang—and refers to soldiers who were so seriously injured you could fit them in a basket.
Long time no see: Derives from the greeting of a Native American man talking to early settlers, using ‘broken’ English.
3) Permanent to Temporary
Describing situations as though they were permanent, diminishes the likelihood of the person bettering their circumstances.
is fixed > has something temporary
We can shift from labelling the person as being something to labelling them having the? circumstances, like this:
He is mad > he has a mental health condition
He is homeless > he is experiencing homelessness
Your Turn!
What words or phrases would you like to remove from your vocabulary?
Teacher ( Business Studies, Accounting, Commerce and Bookkeeping .
1 年This is so thoughtful. I remember asking my students towards the end of last session "What are those things you feel I should improve on or do away with as your teacher" for some seconds the class was quite. Guess the question was strange to them. Their faces were that of ?? surprise but then I encouraged them to speak up and it did help me. Thank you for all the knowledge you share Martin Richards CPCC
??Empower Your English Voice??Build a Winning Mindset ??Master Tiny Habits ??Speak Clearly & Confidently??
1 年I really love your post. I decided not to use the word lame (ie. that`s a lame excuse) anymore because a blog I read recently has deeply touched me. I don`t care if other people think it`s silly or they don`t understand. It`s important for me.
Program Mentor| Teachers College Advanced Programs Faculty
1 年Love the specification between intentions and meanings! You are so very correct: the thing that matters most is how the verbiage was understood/interpreted. Just like what really matters is what students learned (regardless of our instructional intentions). Learning is meaning-making at best! :)