Dogwood's book study group just finished up with the book: Growth Mindset. What a great synergizing and Sharpen the Saw time throughout these last several weeks. It was encouraging, refreshing and powerful to sit around the table of different people reflecting on what was read and what was real. The last collaboration is this week and I love the direction that we will end with... Bring an example of how The Growth Mindset has changed your thinking and/or language. Putting talk into action for sure.
As you have stepped up to the challenge of our last Laker Leadership Rally by setting a professional and classroom goal think about the process you will take in working toward these goals. Some things to consider and grasp:
1. What is the purpose of your goal? Understanding the "Why" helps you and your students set purpose and direction. Motivation if you will to achieve.
2. How will you measure it's success?
3. What will you do to work towards this goal? (Action steps) As you work through these actions steps be sure to stop and reflect on their worth in reaching your goal.
4. Have kids or others visually track what they SEE as a result of working toward the goal. Spotting signs of success keeps you on track. For instance, when walking a trail, seeing the mile markers encourages us to celebrate what we accomplish so far, but also see that goal is closer to our reach.
5 Be sure to PAUSE and rest in order to gain strength to finish. As the turtle trudged along he said, "slow and steady wins the race." Celebrate the EFFORT and RISK taking more than the reaching of the goal itself. Think about the power of others as they encourage a Special needs child or wounded warrior. What is it that they cheer for.. the WIN or the effort and risk that individual is willing to take on. Don't let perfections (3's and 4's, above grade level, etc) be the only kids we celebrate or we begin to form more fixed mindsets in young learners. Attached are a few videos and resources for embracing a Growth Mindset when reaching goals. Please share other ideas with us all. Check out the LIM videos and search to find one that applies as well.
Here is my idea to share... how about yours?
This story is one example of a Growth Mindset vs a Fixed Mindset. After reading, compare the thoughts of the 4th pig to her brothers. How did their thoughts "mindset" change their words, thoughts and actions? How does that relate to us when we try something new or hard? How can we learn from and apply this author's message in our class as we work towards reaching our goal?
Quotes and videos to encourage you and your students.
