A special education teacher has noticed an increase in verbal arguments between two middle school students in his self-contained class. The teacher is concerned that the students' arguments will escalate into a physical altercation. Which of the following steps should the teacher take first to prevent this behavior from escalating?

A special education teacher has noticed an increase in verbal arguments between two middle school students in his self-contained class. The teacher is concerned that the students' arguments will escalate into a physical altercation. Which of the following steps should the teacher take first to prevent this behavior from escalating?

• A. Telephone each student's parent/guardian to discuss his concerns
• B. Request that the school administrator talk to the students
• C. Meet with the students to discuss why they have been arguing and discuss possible solutions
• D. Arrange for one of the students to be placed in a different class

Answer: (C)

The main idea is to use proactive conflict resolution by addressing the issue directly with the students and teaching them to work through disagreements. Meeting with the two students to discuss why they have been arguing and to brainstorm possible solutions gives them a chance to express their perspectives, identify triggers, and practice listening and problem‑solving skills. This approach helps de‑escalate the situation in the moment and empowers the students to take ownership of their behavior, while the teacher guides them toward a concrete plan for avoiding future clashes. It also sets up a routine of respectful communication and supports in-class strategies, which is especially important in a self-contained setting for students with special needs. If the conflict persists or worsens, other steps (involving parents, requesting admin involvement, or temporarily separating a student) may be appropriate later, but addressing the issue directly with a collaborative, solution-focused discussion is the best first move.

The main idea is to use proactive conflict resolution by addressing the issue directly with the students and teaching them to work through disagreements. Meeting with the two students to discuss why they have been arguing and to brainstorm possible solutions gives them a chance to express their perspectives, identify triggers, and practice listening and problem‑solving skills. This approach helps de‑escalate the situation in the moment and empowers the students to take ownership of their behavior, while the teacher guides them toward a concrete plan for avoiding future clashes. It also sets up a routine of respectful communication and supports in-class strategies, which is especially important in a self-contained setting for students with special needs.

If the conflict persists or worsens, other steps (involving parents, requesting admin involvement, or temporarily separating a student) may be appropriate later, but addressing the issue directly with a collaborative, solution-focused discussion is the best first move.