Introduction:
Educators hold immense power in shaping the minds and lives of their students. The language we use while teaching can either empower or disempower them. Teachers need to be mindful of the phrases they use, as certain commonly used phrases can have adverse effects on a student’s growth and development. Here are five such toxic phrases to stop using with your students and what you should say instead.
1. Toxic Phrase: “You should know this by now.”
Alternative Phrase: “Let’s review this concept together.”
Telling a student that they should already know something only serves to make them feel ashamed and embarrassed. Instead of expressing frustration, focus on reviewing the material together and identifying areas where they may need more support.
2. Toxic Phrase: “You’re so smart!”
Alternative Phrase: “I can see how hard you’ve worked to understand this.”
While it might seem like positive reinforcement, telling students they are smart can actually promote a fixed mindset – the belief that intelligence is static and cannot be improved upon. Instead, praise their hard work and perseverance to foster a growth mindset.
3. Toxic Phrase: “Stop asking so many questions.”
Alternative Phrase: “I appreciate your curiosity! Let’s explore this further after class.”
Inquiring minds are the cornerstone of learning, so it’s essential to encourage students to ask questions rather than shut down their curiosity. By scheduling time for further discussion, teachers can create opportunities for learning without derailing from the main teaching plan.
4. Toxic Phrase: “This is easy.”
Alternative Phrase: “This might be challenging at first, but you can do it!”
Labeling work as ‘easy’ can unintentionally put pressure on students who may struggle with the concept, causing them to feel discouraged if they don’t catch on right away. Adjust your language to acknowledge that different students will find various topics and tasks challenging, while also expressing your confidence in their ability to overcome those challenges.
5. Toxic Phrase: “You’re just not good at this.”
Alternative Phrase: “With persistence and practice, you can improve your skills in this area.”
It’s crucial to avoid labeling a student as incapable, as it can destroy their motivation and perpetuate a negative self-image. Instead, remind them that improvement is possible through dedication and effort and offer support to help them grow in their abilities.
Conclusion:
The impact of our words cannot be underestimated. By eliminating the use of these toxic phrases and replacing them with empowering alternatives, educators can create a more positive learning environment that fosters growth, understanding, and mutual respect between teacher and student.
