CURRICULUM GUIDE FOR S.C. TEACHER CADET COURSE | EXPERIENCING EDUCATION, TENTH EDITION
Theme I: Experiencing Learning
Unit 1: Awareness and Reflection
A Word Is Worth a Thousand Pictures
Words...and periods of silence...play a major role in the development of self-concept. The influence is either positive or negative. We know the effects of screaming and ridiculing, of
smiling and using gentle words, but what are the subtle effects of verbal behaviors on the development of self-esteem?
Positive Behaviors
Adults…
1. Send messages that tell children you value what they say. (“It sounds as though
you are really happy with the drawing that you just did.”)
2. Tell children that you enjoy being with them. (“I haven’t laughed this hard in ages.”)
3. Use the child’s interests as the basis for conversation. (“I’ve seen you jump rope
at recess. What are some of the chants that you use?”)
4. Take advantage of the “teachable moment.” (“I know you’re feeling sad about your
cat dying. Let’s talk about it.”)
5. Avoid making judgmental comments to children. (“I can see that you are feeling
really angry right now. Tell me what’s important to you in the story you wrote.”)
6. Accept the invitation from children. (“Yes, let’s do it now! It sounds like fun!”)
Negative Behaviors
Adults….
1. Ignore children, sending the message that you have no interest in their activities.
2. Interrupt children who are speaking to you as well as children who are speaking
to each other.
3. Discourage children from expressing themselves. (“Tell me later. Not now; I’m busy.”)
4. Are sarcastic when speaking with children. (“Most high school students already
know this material.”)
5. Pay superficial attention to what children have to say. (“They look at their watches
instead of listening to the child.”)
6. Are judgmental when dealing with children and their issues. (“You should try as
hard as your sister.”)
7. Put down children’s interests. (“I’m sick of hearing how much you enjoyed that
concert.”)
8. Give orders. (“Sit down.” “Come here.” “Go there.”)
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