POSITIVE LANGUAGE IN CLASS

CODE NO. TRS311201 TRS311202 TRS311203 TRS311204 TRS311205

Assistant Cook TR

COMMON COMPETENCIES Develop and update industry knowledge Observe workplace hygiene procedures Perform computer operations Perform workplace and safety practices Provide effective customer service

A person who has achieved this Qualification is competent to be employed in any of the following positions in the Garde Manger, Pastry or in the Hot Kitchen Section as Cook

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COOKERY NC II (Amended) Promulgated 1CODE

ELIZABETH Y. SAYSON

Over the years, I have learned that there is one factor that influences the effectiveness of my lessons and the classroom culture: the language I use and how I use it.

As teachers, we have our own “language”, which we use to encourage and empower students every single day. But using effective teacher language is not easy; it takes a lot of practice.

We should ensure that the way we communicate with students is encouraging and empowering, so we can guide them toward achieving their ultimate goals.

Students should learn how to make constructive choices by reflecting on past decisions. According to studies, using positive language creates a classroom that learns together, grows together, and supports one another.

In empowering our students, we should convey our faith in our students’abilities, which shows that we believe in them. Using positive words and tone encourage students to meet expectations and gives them an opportunity to fulfill those expectations, or even surpass them.

Communicating to our students that we believe in them and their abilities gives them confidence they need to collaborate with others, become respectful listeners, and work competently by reiterating positive behaviors and encouraging all students to do the same.

It is in discussing mistakes with students that they learn best, giving them multiple opportunities to struggle, albeit productively. This allows students to build confidence in their abilities and teaches them perseverance.

While teachers should model positive language, students should too, on a daily basis. Let’s teach them to reflect on their language so they can identify words that have negative connotations. This will allow them to become more aware of the impact of their language on themselves and others.

Students should have opportunities to revise their language in more positive ways. Using positive language will make learning a more meaningful and thoughtful process.

Choosing your words - inclusive and empowering ones - allows for mutual trust and reciprocal communication inside the classroom. Words like guide and support can empower students and allows them to advocate for themselves because they know their teacher is supportive, empathetic, inclusive, and accepting.

In fostering an environment of growth, there should be honest and direct language in class. This way, students are more likely to feel respected and safe, ensuring success both academically and behaviorally. This also shows them you have clear expectations and will provide supportive and constructive feedback that they can learn from, and that they have a safer and more trust-filled environment.

Now, positive language avoids the use of “don’t”. Use “don’t” statements with positive ones. Instead of saying “Don’t use pens”, we can say, “Let’s use pencils, in case we make mistakes.”

Try to reframe don’t statements to allow students to reflect on their actions to make more positive choices within the classroom.

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The author is Teacher III at CutCut II Elementary School, Tarlac City