1. Listen to what students say without comment. Use eye contact, non-verbal cues such as a nod, and facial expression to indicate that you're interested.

2. Don't dismiss student comments with a vague phrase such as "uh-huh," or "okay."

3. Don't interrupt student comments or responses.

4. Try to incorporate student comments and responses into your material.

5. Encourage students to respond to each other by inviting them to comment on a remark a classmate has made.

6. Write good responses or comments on the board to emphasize the value of student contributions to your class.

7. If you are not sure what a student is asking, ask some questions which will help you clarify. Don't say, "I don't understand what you mean."

8. If you cannot answer a question, be frank with the class. Ask for help; maybe one of the students can give an example to help you out.

9. Repeat and paraphrase student answers. This shows that you were listening, helps you check that you understood what the student meant, and ensures that everyone in class hears what was said.

10. Never try to capitalize on students' confusion by ridiculing or joking about incorrect responses. "Humour" of that kind is bound to backfire and create the very kind of inhospitable climate that you are trying to avoid.

11. Never deter questions by saying, "Well that was really straightforward. I don't suppose there are any questions, are there?" You can bet there won't be.