1. Some students might feel offended hearing a teacher say, "You have the potential but don't use it". Instead, approach in a different manner so the student feels more comfortable with a question such as, What can I do to help you reach your full potential?
2. Everybody feels disappointed sometimes, but when a classroom hears, "I'm disappointed in you", this not only raises ears and eyes but looks like the teacher is looking solely to past performance. In place, try to rephrase and point to the future with a question like, What would you do differently to get a positive outcome if the experience repeats again?
3. Misbehaving is not a matter of surprise in a classroom. But if you pronounce, "This is again the rules", then you are closing a natural way human beings react to many situations. Students are wise. Try to incorporate the rules and say something of this level: Let me see how I can help you within the established school rules.
4. You shouldn't be in a position to challenge children. However, it's very common to hear a teacher repeat this sentence, "Who do you think you are?" Meaning you are not as important as me. It's better to say, I'm on a schedule as much as you are.
5. Out of frustration, the following expression is another common among classrooms. "What's wrong with you?" Which implies every student is perfect and comes from a perfect home. That's not true. I'll suggest start teaching conflict resolution and say something like this: I've noticed you have a problem. Can we work together and try to find a solution?
I want to understand whether you are a new or experienced teacher, you have used at least one of these expressions before. It's time to choose very carefully our words when in front of a full room of students.
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