One of the most important things for teachers to realize when speaking to children, and especially when correcting students for behavior, is to watch their tone of voice. When a teacher sounds sincere, students are more likely to trust them and the more trust a student has for a teacher, the more respectful the student will act in class.

Sarcasm is the most destructive tone of voice a teacher can use with students. Sarcasm requires a more advanced understanding of language and students do not comprehend the “joke” behind a sarcastic comment. The tone of voice used with sarcastic comments is cruel and confusing to students.

While some students might be able to understand and respond well to sarcasm, this is the exception, not the norm. When responding to a student who is misbehaving, teachers need to make sure they use a sincere tone of voice and avoid sarcasm.

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1. The Importance of Body Language
2. The Use of Hands in Classroom Management
3. How to Handle Power Struggles
4. Success Story: Whisper Teaching
5. Speak Softly