Effective communication in the classroom is not just about what we say—but how we say it. This presentation examines the use of “precise phrasing” strategies, or subtle linguistic shifts that invite reflection, reduce resistance, and guide students toward deeper engagement and ownership of learning.

We will explore how framing questions like “What makes you say that?” or “How would you feel if…?” can prompt metacognitive thinking; how prefacing suggestions with “I’m not sure if this works for you, but…” can lower defenses; and how using “just imagine…” invites students to visualize possibilities.

Through classroom vignettes and micro-teaching demonstrations, participants will see how small changes in phrasing can shift pushback into curiosity, “no” into “tell me more,” and hesitation into commitment. Attendees will walk away with a compact toolkit of ethically grounded language shifts they can begin applying immediately to improve rapport, foster student buy-in, and support thoughtful discourse.