Managing Hot Moments in the Classroom: Concrete Strategies for Cooling Down Tension
If students make blatantly inappropriate remarks, consider the following steps below (adapted from Obear, 2010):
Clarify what you heard. “I want to make sure I heard you correctly. Did you say…”
If they disagree with your paraphrase, you could move on. If you suspect they are trying to “cover their tracks,” consider making a statement about the initial comment. “I’m glad I misunderstood you, because such comments can be…”
If they agree with your paraphrase, explore their intent behind making the comment. “Can you please help me understand what you meant by that?”
Explore the impact of the comment. “What impact do you think that comment could have on…”
Share your perspective on the probable impact of comments of this nature. “When I hear your comment, I think/feel…” “That comment perpetuates negative stereotypes and assumptions about…”