As a former classroom teacher, I believe teachers have a unique language, a form of ‘teacherism’. This is a set of words, phrases, and expressions that you would probably hear in many classrooms. I’m not sure what it is about teaching that creates this shared language—maybe it’s the need to keep dozens of little minds engaged, the balancing act of discipline and encouragement, or the rhythm of guiding and redirecting. But I can absolutely identify with this language and how it becomes woven into our daily teaching routine, almost like a second nature.
In this post, I compiled a selection of some of these classic phrases teachers, that no matter where you teach, are sure to feel familiar:
1. “No, you’re not done yet.”
2. “Raise your hand if you want to speak.”
3. “Class isn’t over yet!”
4. “Save it for after class.”
5. “Take out your homework. Let’s see who actually did it.”
6. “That’s a conversation for after class.”
7. “Eyes on me!”
8. “One person talks at a time.”
9. “I know you can make a better choice.”
10. “That’s a question for later.”
11. “Show me you’re ready to learn.”
12. “Let’s finish up this last bit.”
13. “Can you say more about that?”
14. “Remember, sharing is caring.”
16. “Is that helping the class?”
17. “I believe in you. Keep going.”
18. “A sentence starts with a capital letter and ends with a period.”
19. “Did you read the directions carefully?”
20. “If you finish early, check your work.”
23. “Is this your best effort?”
24. “We can’t start until it’s quiet.”
25. “Check in with your partner.”
26. “Let’s show some patience.”
27. “How could we make this better?”
28. “Stay focused on your own work.”
29. “Pencils down, eyes up.”
30. “Let’s give everyone a turn to talk.”
31. “There’s a time and place for everything.”
32. “Who needs a brain break?”
Related: 16 Things to Do When Bored in Class
Final thoughts
So, what do you think, how many of these phrases have you heard (or used) yourself? Did you identify with any? I did!. Share with us your feedback and comments on our social media platforms. I hope you have found this post insightful (as well as nostalgic, for those who are no longer teaching).
