Setting your classroom up to celebrate difference
Every year, there will be lessons and conversations that can be challenging including those that focus on aspects of an individual’s identity. Preparing your classroom culture for sometimes difficult conversations in the beginning of the year will help ensure all identities are recognized and avoids putting any individual students in the spotlight later.
We know you may already have a similar plan for your classroom. If you discuss race, gender, culture, religion or any other category, be sure to also include disability in those conversations. Disability is part of diversity.
Our recommendation for the beginning of the year is to have teachers explain to students that in an effort to build a strong classroom family, it will be important to celebrate the different experiences and perspectives that each person brings to the space. Everyone has characteristics that make them unique, and acknowledging that is important because it is through valuing each individual's perspective and worth that we create classrooms of acceptance and belonging.
We then suggest introducing the 3 P's and an A strategy for engaging in conversations where students may be sharing vulnerable ideas, opinions or experiences.
The "3 P's and an A" conversation technique refers to a strategy where you "Pause, Process, Paraphrase, and Ask" to actively listen and fully understand someone before responding, allowing for better communication and conflict resolution.
Breakdown of the 3 P's and A:
Pause: Take a moment to fully absorb what the other person is saying before reacting immediately.
Process: Reflect on the information received, considering the context and underlying emotions.
Paraphrase: Summarize the key points of what you heard to confirm understanding and show you are actively listening.
Ask: Pose a clarifying question to further explore the topic or gain more information.
Benefits of using this technique:
Improves active listening: By taking the time to pause and process, you demonstrate genuine interest in the other person's perspective.
Reduces misunderstandings: Paraphrasing helps ensure you are interpreting information correctly before responding.
Builds rapport: Showing that you are actively listening and trying to understand can foster trust and positive communication.
Manages conflict effectively: When tensions are high, taking a pause and processing thoughts can help prevent impulsive reactions.
Image description: Infographic titled "3P's and an A: Partner Conversation Technique."
It is organized into a series of steps displayed in multi-colored boxes:
“Partner 1 shares their thought”, represented by an icon of a speaking profile in a pink box.
“Partner 2 actively listens”, represented by an icon of an ear in a teal green box
“After Partner 1 finishes, Partner 2 will:”
“Pause: Take a moment to consider what your partner said”, highlighted in a purple box.
“Process: Reflect on what your partner shared and the emotions they may feel”, highlighted in a yellow box.
“Paraphrase: Summarize what you heard for an opportunity to clarify misunderstandings”, highlighted in a pink box.
“Ask: Ask clarifying questions to further explore the topic or gain more information”, highlighted in a blue box.