Affective Statements

Learning Activity

Affective statements help build school wide community.  They offer an alternative to saying: “don’t do that” or “stop that.”   They are sometimes referred to as "I" statements.  Affective statements allows one to express their emotions (the how and why of their feelings) without blame or shame.  In return, affective statements allow others a better understanding of one's feelings and emotions.  

Sample script: 

I feel ………… (the emotion), when ……… (the occurrence).  It makes it (reason/because) __________. 

Example:

“Sam, I get very distracted when you tap your pencil on the table. It makes it difficult for me to concentrate.” 

After reviewing the handout, how do you think you can incorporate affective statements in your daily communication with students.

Resources

Affective Statements & Restorative Questions - This handout was created by Spokane Public Schools, 2019.

In the video below Steve Korr, a team leader of Akoben, explains how to use affective statements in your classroom and community.

In this video from Santa Ana Unified School District, a teacher uses both affective statements and affective questions to facilitate the restorative process, "Impromptu Conversation", with a student.