Final answer:
To build rapport with Anthony's mother, Mrs. Wolfe should c) listen actively, show empathy, and engage in a two-way conversation about Anthony's growth and experiences, using familiar and inclusive language.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mrs. Wolfe, a second-grade teacher, should listen actively and show empathy to make Anthony's mother feel comfortable during their parent-teacher conference. Building a rapport involves engaging in meaningful conversation and showing genuine interest in the child's well-being, both academically and personally. Mrs. Wolfe could ask routine, habitual questions to begin the conversation on a familiar note and then gradually move to specifics about Anthony.
It includes discussing his strengths and areas for improvement without overwhelming the parent with educational jargon or anxiety-provoking language. Instead, she should speak in plain language, encourage dialogue by asking for the parent's thoughts, and express understanding regarding the parent's concerns. By using phrases like "it seems that," Mrs. Wolfe can convey her points without seeming authoritative, thereby inviting a collaborative conversation.