Inclusive Communication in the classroom

When asking about a student's cultural background, what is the most inclusive approach?

• "Which country are you really from? Your accent is interesting."

• "I notice you have a different background. What's your ethnicity?"

• "I'd love to learn more about your cultural background if you're comfortable sharing."

•  "You must be from [country]. People from there are so [stereotype]."

A student mentions they have ADHD. What's the most supportive response?

•  "Thank you for sharing that. Would you like to tell me what accommodations might be helpful for you?"

•  "Oh, that must be why you're always fidgeting in class."

• "Don't worry, everyone is a little ADHD sometimes."

• "Have you tried meditation? It really helps with focus."

What's the most inclusive way to learn about students' learning preferences?

• "Do you have any diagnosed learning disabilities I should know about?"

•  "I'd like to understand how you learn best. Could you share what teaching approaches help you engage with material?"

• "Are you a visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learner? You have to pick one."

• "Why do you struggle with this type of assignment?"

How should you inquire about a student's religious observances that might affect their class participation?

• "I noticed you were absent during a religious holiday. Please provide documentation next time."

• "Are there any religious observances I should be aware of that might affect your participation in certain activities?"

• "Your religion seems to interfere with your education. How will you manage that?"

• "I understand you're [religion]. Do all people from your culture follow those practices?"

A new international student is quiet in class. What's the most inclusive way to check in?

• "You're very quiet. Is it because English isn't your first language?"

• "I've noticed you haven't participated much. Is there anything about our classroom environment I could adjust to make it more comfortable for you?"

• "In this country, we expect students to speak up in class." 

• "Your silence is affecting your participation grade."

What's the most inclusive way to learn about students' interests outside of class?

• "I'd love to know what activities or interests you enjoy outside of school - would you like to share?" 

• "What do your parents let you do for fun?"

• "Do you participate in any normal Kiwi hobbies?" 

• "Why don't you participate in school sports like the other students?"

How should you ask about a student's preferred name or pronunciation?

• "Your name is too difficult to pronounce. Can I call you something easier?

• "Your name is so exotic! What does it mean in your language?"

• "What's your English name?"

• "Could you tell me how to correctly pronounce your name? I want to make sure I get it right."

When a student appears distressed, what's the most supportive approach?

• "Why are you so emotional? You need to focus on your work." 

• "Is this another episode related to your condition?" 

•  "I've noticed you seem a bit distressed today. Would you like to talk about it, or is there something I can do to help?" 

• "You should talk to the counselor about your problems, not me."

How should you inquire about communication preferences for a neurodiverse student?

• "Why don't you speak up in class like everyone else?"

•  "You need to make eye contact when I'm talking to you."

• "Your parents mentioned you have special needs. What are they?"

• "How do you prefer to communicate about assignments or questions - email, in person, or another method that works better for you?" 

What's the most inclusive way to ask about assistance needs for a class activity?

• "This activity might be difficult for some students, especially those with disabilities."

• "I'm providing multiple ways to engage with this activity. Please choose what works best for you, and let me know if you need something different." 

• "Can everyone do this activity, or do some people have limitations?" 

• "Let me know if you need any modifications for this activity."