Here are a few strategies you could use. Note that each situation and class dynamics are different, so some of these may work better in certain situations while others might in different situations. Use your knowledge of your class to choose the best approaches for the moment.

• Help students think about the topic – “e.g. many people think this way, what are the reasons? What about the other perspectives?”
• Don’t ignore the heated moment – make sure to address it, especially if anything is not appropriate (it will give the impression it is).
• Take a pause for reflection (e.g. get students to spend 5 minutes to write down their thoughts).
• You could make it something students can research and you will all come back and discuss with further information
• If you are not sure how to resolve the issue, you can suggest that the class will discuss this next time etc… (this acknowledges you are aware of it, but gives you time to figure out the best approach).

You can also use Open the Front Door approach described in this University of Oakland handout.

If you feel that the hot moments are creating student distress you, there are also a number of tools you can use to recognize and support students at that time.