Using Your Teacher Voice

The teacher's tone of voice is a powerful instrument. It sets the tone and environment for the entire classroom in terms of engagement, behavior, and rapport with students.There is a time to speak softly, loudly, friendly, and formally.

Be aware of you body language when you are working with people. Are you crossing your arms? Do you have your hand in your pockets? Are you slouching or standing up straight? Do you talk with your hands, too much?

Square Up and Stand Still

This is a strategy ( a standing pose, actually) that teachers use when they are giving directions to a group of students. When you give a direction, stop moving. Point your shoulders in the direction of where you are talking and keep eye contact.

According to Teach Like A Champion,”Your physical presence speaks a thousand words. Body language is important, often more important than what you say. Be sure both shoulders are directed at the person to whom you are speaking. Be sure eye contact is direct. Stand straight or lean in close. If the student is several feet away, move closer, into his or her space is best. Stop moving when you are giving important directions.”

Behind the Scenes: Planning

Practice in the mirror what it looks like to "square up & stand still."

1. Pick a point in the room where all scholars can see you, then stand still.

2. Turn your body and square your shoulders to face all scholars.

3. Plant your feet and do not move when giving directions.

4. Keep your hands by your sides, behind your back, or in front of you - just keep them still.

Spend time watching and listening to other teachers using their voice to be effective. Check out this short video explaining how teachers can use their tone of voice to encourage self-regulation.

Demonstrating Self-Regulation With Tone of Voice

Using Your Voice to Quiet a Class

Lights, Camera, Action: In the Classroom

1. Find the right balance between stern and sugary.

Though the job can be stressful at times, teachers should be careful not to sound angry or exasperated… but at the same time, you should avoid using a “sugary-sweet” tone. Especially in early grades, it’s important to send the message to your students that they are not babies, so you will not “baby” them. Speaking to them with a direct and sincere tone of voice will help them build trust and meet your expectations.

2. Use whispering in your behavior management.

Whispering is a smart way to quickly de-escalate an unsavory behavior scenario. It forces the student to quiet down in order to hear what you’re saying. Instead of embarrassing a student by yelling or correcting behavior in front of the whole class, show respect by whispering a firm reminder. This gives the student the chance to get back on track without peer influence or disruptive confrontation.

3. Incorporate some theatrics into your lessons.

Teachers must be cautious not to speak in a tone that’s too flat. You don’t want your students to be bored! Vary your inflection and your volume to keep students engaged. Don’t be afraid to “get into character” and have some fun; your students will pay attention and your lesson will be more likely to stick!

4. When giving instructions, use formal register, including tone and word choice.

5. Body Language: Check out this informative article about why body language matters and how you can create a positive learning environment with your gestures, facial expressions, and body stance.

6. Square Up, Stand Still: when giving instructions, stop moving and strike a formal pose

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