I-Statements

Suggestions:

Can be used to express your feelings about a student’s actions. It is very important that students know you are criticizing their actions and not them personally. It allows you to communicate your feelings about behaviors that are a problem for you because of how it affects you.

• State your feelings to the person.
• Give a reason for your feelings.
• Do not accuse the child.

 

I-statements have three parts:

1. A description of the condition that the educator dislikes.
2. An expression of the feeling the educator has.
3. A statement of the reason for the feeling.

Examples:

I feel annoyed when you and Jayne are not cooperating with your group because it interferes with the group’s learning.

When you and Jayne are not cooperating, I feel annoyed because it interferes with your group’s learning.

When your group is not cooperating, I am disappointed because your group is not learning.

It is appropriate to remind the student it is their actions you dislike not them.

I really like you. When we sit down and talk about ... I really enjoy being with you. Sometimes your behavior, (pause) well, I just don't like it because it stops us from learning and having fun.

Robert Sweetland's Notes ©