The language and style we use when speaking with students has a profound effect on learning, classroom management, childrens self-control and their sense of belonging.The the words, phrases, tone, and pace used daily in the classroom have the power to help students develop self-control, build their sense of belonging, and gain skills and knowledge.

However, thoughtful use of language is an often-overlooked component of the teacher’s repertoire of tools. If we choose our words wisely, our language can help students:

• envision success
• stretch their thinking
• advance independent behaviors and actions

Like any skill, effective teacher talk is a skill that develops over time. The following tips can help build awareness and towards harnessing the power of our words.

1. Hit Record! - With free recording tools like Audacity , it has never been easier to record yourself in the classroom for short periods of time. This is a great way to listen to the words spoken as well as the tone and context of that dialogue.
2. Lesson Language – Taking a few minutes to think through the language we use with students while lesson planning can pay off big. Often we think we are modeling skills and strategies for students when we are really just telling and assigning, The few minutes we spend thinking through our language can impact the flow and dynamics of the instruction.
3. Repeat, Repeat, Repeat – Phrases - Keep your radar up for repeated words and phrases. These mantras resonate in students independent work. Be alert to the language not advancing student independence. Ask a colleague to listen in as it helps to have two ears at work.
4. Breathe – Before speaking, take a few seconds to plan words carefully. Think about what we could say that would encourage, stretch, challenge, and acknowledge our students thinking and contributions.
5. Build Collective Intelligence – Invite colleagues or grade level teams to join in. Great things can come out of a brainstorming session. Check out what we discovered in this five minute conversation about the language we use: