A teacher should never ignore the use of foul language in the classroom setting, as failure to respond might teach students to think that bad language is acceptable. Confronting profanity is important as some students are so used to swearing, that they are not aware this language is inappropriate in class. If a teacher cannot point out the particular student who has used foul language, he should still address the issue. The teacher shouldn’t ask the student to point out the culprit, instead tells the class briefly that any kind foul language is intolerable and students are expected to address each other with respect, and afterward continue teaching.
If a student uses foul language to attract a teacher’s attention or upset him, the teacher should react calmly and in a restrained way. If a teacher focuses heavily on a student’s behavior or gets angry, the offender gets the attention he is seeking. Notify the student briefly that the use of foul language is unacceptable and point out they are more suitable ways of getting the teacher’s attention.
Pull the student using the profane language aside and find out the underlying reason for this behavior. Some students, such as preschoolers, are repeating words they heard their parents utter without knowing they are offensive. If this is the case, point out that these words should not be used in class, given that they can hurt other students, or might result in the isolation of the student by peers. Make sure the student understands the profane words that should never be uttered in class.
Teach a student who swears to substitute foul language with appropriate phrases and words, when he is distressed or frustrated. Advise the student to express his frustrations or anger by writing down his thoughts in a letter, keeping a journal or talking to the school counselor, instead of using profane language.
Lay down a rule in class that any student using foul language will be sent out of class for a few minutes. During this time out, the student is expected to focus on the inappropriate behavior, and must apologize to the class upon being allowed back.