Avoiding Deficit-Based Language

Not that: "Disruptive in class"

Not that: "Slow learner"

Not that: "Struggles with reading"

Say this: "Developingreading skills"

Say this: "Eager to participate"

Say this: "Unique learning style"

Say this: "Needs some support in _____"

Say this: "Excels in creative thinking"

Not that: "Weak in ____"

Not that: "Poor at ____"

Say this: "Shows potential in ____"

Not that: "Not good at structured tasks"

Not that: "Behind the class"

Not that: "Easily distracted"

Say this: "Responds well to positive reinforcement"

Say this: "Curious and inquisitive"

Say this: "Learning at their own pace"

Not that: "Doesn’t listen to instructions"

Say this: "Exploring new ways of learning"

Say this: "Building foundational skills"

Say this: "Growing their skill set"

Not that: "Lacks basic skills"

Not that: "Still needs to catch up"

Not that: "Resistant to traditional teaching methods"

Not that: "Hasn't achieved proficiency in _____"

Say this: "Making progress in _____"

Not that: "Still needs to catch up"

Not that: "Lacks basic skills"

Say this: "Demonstrates enthusiasm for learning"

Say this: "Growing their skill set"