What We Say and How We Say It Matter

Teacher Talk that Improves Student Learning and Behavior

By: Mike Anderson

Narrated by: Peter Coates

Length: 5 hrs and 27 mins

Publisher's summary

We all want our students to feel safe, collaborate well with others, feel ownership for their learning, and be joyfully engaged in their work. Nevertheless, many teachers end up using language patterns that undermine these goals. Do any of these scenarios sound familiar?

• We want students to take responsibility for their learning, yet we use language that implies teacher ownership.
• We want to build positive relationships with students, yet we use sarcasm when we get frustrated.
• We want students to think learning is fun, yet we sometimes make comments that suggest the opposite.
• We want students to exhibit good behavior because it's the right thing to do, yet we rely on threats and bribes, which implies students don't naturally want to be good.

What teachers say to students - when they praise or discipline, give directions or ask questions, and introduce concepts or share stories - affects student learning and behavior. A slight change in intonation can also dramatically change how language feels for students. In What We Say and How We Say It Matter, Mike Anderson digs into the nuances of language in the classroom. This audiobook's many examples will help teachers examine their language habits and intentionally improve their classroom practice so their language matches and supports their goals.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2019 ASCD (P)2019 Echo Point Books & Media, LLC

Small adjustments in wording

I liked the examples of how just changing around a few words can give kids ownership. It was well researched and logically presented. Many books like this spend the first part of the book trying to convince you why their idea is worthy, but he just gets to the point. The only thing I would change is that I would have liked Mike Anderson to read his own book. The reader did a fine job, but if I had read it to myself it would have had Mike's voice.

Great teacher prep

Great listen, small and easy things to think about and implement throughout any part of your career.

Great for any teacher

This audiobook was exactly what I needed to hear. As teachers we hear that our students need to take ownership of their learning, yet some of us use teacher centered language. This audio book gives you the tools and insight to make the change. I will listening again throughout the school year.