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The Power of the Positive Comment: A Challenge

Credit: iStock.com/BlackSalmon
Credit: iStock.com/BlackSalmon
A true story: by the time I’d reached the ninth grade, I had a well-earned reputation as a jerk, albeit one with good grades. I was a jerk to my friends, a jerk to my teachers, a jerk in class, a jerk in the cafeteria. I was probably a jerk when I slept, I was just that good at being a jerk. That year, though, I had a number of extremely good teachers, including one French instructor who saw enough in me that, on my final report card, he included the words: “A fine young man.”

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2 Responses

  1. I always love your articles, Paul, but this was a particularly rich one. Given all the neurocognitive research that points to the powerful connection between positive affect and cognitive engagement seeking pathways for affirmation holds huge potential for student growth. Great stuff!

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