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Tag: Paula Denton

Power in our Words

June 26, 2022June 26, 2022 ~ wordancerblog ~ 4 Comments

As I reflect on how I can become a positive voice in my school community,  I have been reading Paula Denton’s book, The Power of Our Words.  It gives concrete advice to teachers on how to reflect on how they speak to create a positive classroom climate.

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  1. wordancerblog's avatar
    wordancerblog on Working in the Wonder Studio: Setting the StageJanuary 30, 2026

    I'm a dreamer, Trish. Why can't it be the norm? There'd definitely be more joy and more insights into how…

  2. Trish's avatar
    Trish on Working in the Wonder Studio: Setting the StageJanuary 29, 2026

    I loved reading this observation: "I was just setting the stage for children to create.  They did not need help;…

  3. wordancerblog's avatar
    wordancerblog on Working in the Wonder Studio: Setting the StageJanuary 28, 2026

    Come to New Jersey anytime, Kim. You have an open invitation!

  4. kimhaynesjohnson's avatar
    kimhaynesjohnson on Working in the Wonder Studio: Setting the StageJanuary 28, 2026

    What's so fascinating is that children are accepting and agreeable when it comes to working together (mostly)- - far more…

  5. Anita Ferreri's avatar
    Anita Ferreri on Working in the Wonder Studio: Setting the StageJanuary 27, 2026

    I think you should give yourself a round of applause for inspiring their creativity!

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4 responses to “Power in our Words”

  1. Tina L Avatar
    Tina L
    June 26, 2022

    Jo- love these great reminders. It’s challenging when we are met with lack of buy in by students or they are consistently off task. Is there a fine line between challenging students to be productive and non disruptive and language used if a student just needs encouragement if they lack confidence? I’m working really hard to use words wisely in my classroom and I’ll definitely pick up the book that you recommended. Also love your pursuit of joy in the classroom!! What feeds the soul of our students energizes teachers too. Write On!

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  2. Fran Haley Avatar
    Fran Haley
    June 28, 2022

    Joanne, I recall reading this powerful poem about our words on EE and it still surges through my veins…plus I was just reading about the large impact/effect size that teacher credibility has, i.e., students believing that a teacher CAN and WANTS to teach them. You post captures this essence so well – and so much more. It is time for reinventing and reinvigorating, to move forward in helping ourselves help our students and for ALL of us to find the joy in it, as you mention. Exciting transition for you next year!!

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  3. Loralee Avatar
    Loralee
    July 4, 2022

    So true! Our words make the difference!

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  4. Terje Avatar
    Terje
    July 5, 2022

    Words spoken to children, to others, to ourselves make a difference. Even small words can shift the way someone sees the world or themselves. To your wonderful book list I would add Peter Johnston’s Choice Words and Opening Minds.

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