3.2 Strategies for Hot Button Moments - Part 2

Another strategy to facilitate hot button moments is Diane J. Goodman’s “Straight A's Model”. This model outlines an effective way of addressing those sudden hot button moments in the classroom:

• AFFIRM – Affirm and appreciate people’s comments and questions. 
  Thank you for asking that question. I’m sure others were wondering about that too. 
  Interesting point. Let’s consider that.
  I appreciate that you raised that point
  I appreciate your willingness to stay open and consider other perspectives.
  I know this isn’t easy to think or talk about. Thank you for raising that point. 
  
  
• ACKNOWLEDGE – Acknowledge what people are saying. Make sure you understand what they’re expressing. Paraphrase their words and feelings.
  I’m hearing you say that… Is that correct?
  It sounds like you feel….
  So from your perspective…
  It seems like you’re both concerned about….even though you’re approaching it differently
  Those are both good examples of the effects of racism because….
  
  
• ASK – Ask questions to better understand individuals’ behaviours and perspectives and to help them reflect on their views.
  Can you tell me more about how you came to think that?
  What experiences led you to that belief?
  How would you make sense of…?
  What would it mean for you if this was true….?
  How were you feeling when…?
  
  

• ADD – Add more information, historical/social/political context, or alternative explanations. Challenge misinformation, broaden people’s perspectives, address differences in power and privilege, and put issues in a larger context.
  It is interesting you think that, I was taught…
  This reminds me of a story I was told as a child…
  This research study found that…
  Let’s consider how the history of….may have contributed to what we see today
  How might people’s social identities affect their experiences in this situation?
  What are some other explanations for this?

Source: Adapted from Goodman, 2015.