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Using your voice to address those in positions of power—from school officials to government leaders—is an important part of being a citizen. Using that voice effectively is a skill. Luckily, our history offers us outstanding examples of master communicators, and you will learn from them in this unit. Think about times you’ve spoken to an authority figure about a change you want to see.

• How did you go about it?
• What would you like to learn or do differently the next time you are in that position?

1 Answer

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Answer: When speaking to an authority figure about a change you want to see, it's essential to approach the conversation with respect and professionalism. It's important to be clear and concise about the change you are proposing and provide evidence and reasoning to support your argument.


Explanation: Some tips for effective communication with authority figures include:

- Be prepared: Have a clear understanding of the issue and the change you want to see. Prepare your arguments and evidence in advance.

- Be respectful: Use a polite tone and avoid aggressive or confrontational language. Remember that the person you are speaking to has the power to make decisions that can impact you and - others.

- Be specific: Clearly state the change you want to see and provide concrete examples of how it would benefit the organization or community.

- Listen actively: Listen carefully to the authority figure's response and be open to feedback or suggestions. Try to find common ground and work towards a solution that benefits everyone.



If your previous attempts to communicate with authority figures were unsuccessful, it may be helpful to reflect on the experience and identify areas for improvement. Some questions to consider include:

Did I clearly state my position and provide supporting evidence?

Did I approach the conversation with respect and professionalism?

Did I actively listen to the authority figure's response and try to find common ground?

Was there anything I could have done differently to improve the outcome?

By reflecting on your previous experiences and learning from them, you can improve your communication skills and increase your effectiveness in speaking to authority figures about important issues.

User Andreas Koch
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