If you’ve ever stood in front of a room full of high schoolers and thought What in the world are they even saying? — you’re not alone. Every year, the slang changes, the humor shifts, and somehow “delulu,” “rizz,” and “skibidi” are just part of their normal vocabulary. If you’re wondering how to keep high school students engaged using Gen Z slang and humor, it really comes down to making learning feel relevant, current, and fun.
It can feel impossible to keep up. But one thing I’ve learned is that learning sticks better when students feel seen — and sometimes, that starts with simply speaking their language.
Why Gen Z Language Matters
You don’t have to know every TikTok trend or start your lessons with “It’s giving…” to connect with your students. But knowing some of their world — their slang, their humor, even just their favorite phrases — goes a long way.
When I started sprinkling Gen Z slang into casual conversations and classroom celebrations, my students may have rolled their eyes and laughed, but they also saw me in a different light.
Use Humor and Gen Z Slang to Build Connection
One of the best things I’ve learned about how to keep high school students engaged using Gen Z slang and humor is that laughter works wonders. When students can laugh with you — not at you — it breaks down barriers and helps build a classroom culture where they feel seen, safe, and understood. I love using humor in little ways throughout the year, but especially during class celebrations.
Go ahead – include some memes or gifts into your slides and surprise them. They LOVE it!
Stay in the Know About High School Student Culture
You do not need to become an expert on TikTok overnight but it helps to stay aware of the words and trends your students use. If they say “That is so delulu” or “It is giving” you can understand what they mean and maybe even use it back with a smile. Knowing their language helps you build stronger relationships and classroom trust.
Celebrate Students in Ways that Feel Relevant
The end of the school year is the perfect time to celebrate student personalities. I created a set of student voted “Most Likely To” awards using Gen Z language and humor that my students absolutely love. These are not the typical “Most Likely to Succeed” type of awards. Instead think
- Most Likely to Have Their Phone at 1 Percent and Still Not Charge It
- Most Likely to Have an Emotional Support Water Bottle
- Most Likely to Say “It’s Giving” Every Five Minutes
Because the awards are voted on by classmates, they feel more personal and meaningful. Since they use current slang, students find them hilarious and relatable.
👉 Click here to check out my Gen Z Inspired Most Likely To Awards
(I update this resource every year to reflect new slang and trends so it stays fresh and relevant for your future classes)
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, you don’t have to become fluent in Gen Z to connect with your students. You just have to be willing to meet them halfway. When we make space for their voices, their humor, and their culture — even just a little — engagement goes way up.
So if you’re looking for a fun way to end the year and actually get a few laughs from your high schoolers, try speaking their language. Go ahead and join in with them just a little (but not too much, or they’ll roll their eyes at you)! 🙄
Make your classroom fun and watch your students love ❤️ learning!
Happy Teaching!
