Instructors sometimes find themselves faced with unexpected moments of tension, discomfort, or conflict in the classroom, often connected to a heightened awareness of social differences in the room. For example, students or instructors might be subject to identity-based microaggressions which communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative messages about a marginalized group. These moments can heighten emotion in the classroom (fear, anxiety, guilt, resentment, etc.) and can have a negative impact on classroom climate and student learning, especially if they go unaddressed. How can instructors become more aware of when these moments are occuring? What are some pedagogical choices that are available in these moments? And how can these moments become opportunities to advance student learning? In this interactive workshop, participants will reflect upon their own experiences with such moments and practice applying concrete strategies for achieving their goals in the classroom even when these difficult moments occur. If you are planning on attending, then as a first step in this reflection process, please take a look at this two-question survey (see link) and share any questions about this topic that you would like to see addressed in this workshop.