Speaking in Secondary Education



Posted: Sunday, January 30, 2011

by Cheryl Collinson
http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/cherylk55atyahoodotcom

Speaking is something we all do every day. On an average day (Secondary Education) as an Educator, we speak to 80 teenagers throughout the day. This number doesn't take into account the number of staff we speak to as well. How many of us actually take the time to think before we speak? Do you think about the tone of your voice or your body language? Are you taking into consideration each personality needs to be spoken to in a unique way? As speaking is a natural thing we just do, a great deal of Educators don't think before they speak nor do they take into consideration their own body language when speaking.

Imagine a classroom with 26 students. Each one wanting your undivided attention throughout a lesson. I have techniques that work for me and they can work for you as well. As each students enters my lesson, they all get a personal greeting. After everyone is in the lesson, I quietly wait for silence. Sometimes this takes 2 minutes, sometimes longer. (as you use this technique the waiting time becomes less and less) I look around the class and notice students saying, "Shhhh, Miss is waiting." When I have the silence I need, I never raise my voice above it's normal speaking tone. I again say hello and get on with what the lesson expectations are. I tell my classes, "I will not raise my voice e so it is important that you are quiet and listening." "If you have any questions once the lesson begins, raise you hand and wait patiently." (I always acknowledge a raised hand so students know I have seen them) Acknowledgement is key!

While I am speaking to my class, I am very aware of my body language. My arms are never crossed and my tone is always calm. I believe this action sets the tome for a productive lesson for all. It is very important to always be aware of your body. No hands on hips, no rolling of the eyes and no tapping of the fingers. Our students pick up on on these subtle body cues just as we do and it can't produce anything positive.

When it is time to give students individualized attention, always sit at their level. (Don't stand over them as this is intimidating) Be aware of your tone of voice and of that particular students individual needs. When a student raises their hand, acknowledge their need to speak to you and continue with what you were doing. ( This reinforces patience)

In this article (along with my other articles) you may think, "Is she mad? I don't have time for all of this stuff." Trust me when I say to you that yes, these ideas work. Like all good things they take time and patience. Before long, a habit will be formed. A habit of a positive, calm and nurturing classroom. After all, isn't this what we all want?

I have published my first book, (in a series I am working on) for teenagers, parents and educators about effective communication. The book is a mere 39 pages. It was intentional to make the book short and straight to the point as all out lives are so busy and we need simple, effective and direct assistance. I have been an educator for 18 years as well as a parent and all techniques I have learned do work!!!!!

We all want what is best for our students and ourselves. We want our students to leave our classrooms knowing they have learned and they are happy. This is a win, win situation.

Please leave comments, questions or techniques you know that may help others. As EDUCATORS, we all must stick together. http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/cherylk55atyahoodotcom

Kindly,

Cheryl Collinson

Pick and Choose Your Battles, available on lulu.com
Cheryl Collinson is a Parent, Educator, Author and hold 2 BA in Psychology. She is a person who is passionate about working with and helping teenagers to become the best they can be. Helping teeangers, parents and educators to use effective communication, listening and body language skills are her speciality.

Cheryl has recently published the first in many books about effective communication titled Pick and Choose Your Battles.. Her book can be found at : www.lulu.com

Feedback, questions and comments are all welcomed.

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