Having a GROWTH MINDSET

My current school has a focus on having a 'Growth Mindset', here is a youtube video which was shared with us, titled

A Study on Praise and Mindsets

by Carol Dweck 

What I find interesting about this is the enormity of praise... especially with looking at them in the categories of 'intelligence' vs 'effort'. 

it definitely gets me thinking, HOW DO I PRAISE?
(and give feedback in class...)

At my last school we did an exercise where we observed another teacher with an instructional group, and noted all the verbal comments and tones used. It would be interesting to do that  again, with a 'growth mindset'... especially as I learn more about this.

Here are some screen shots which I think sum up what I particularly took away from this short video...

Students were tested once, and given feedback either based on their intelligence or their effort.
When they were given the option of what to  do for the second test, the students who were praised for their intelligence gererally chose the easier and safer option of the test. Those who were praised for effort nearly ALL chose to challenge themselves and choose the harder option. 

Carol explains this by saying...

(click on the pictures to enlarge them)

 So in short...

I need to keep this in mind with every interaction I have.

I am investing in future leaders... and I definitely want our future leaders to have Growth mindsets!

Finishing one chapter and beginning another

Time flies!

I have now finished my time at Tamaki Primary school.

It was an amazing two and a half years of teaching, learning, building relationships with; parents, students and colleagues... and fun.

I was blessed with an amazing farewell assembly, full of kind words from students and colleagues, with many (MANY) cards and a lovely DVD full of encouragement and memories.

When one chapter ends it's a great time to reflect on what has been the most influential parts of the chapter (& who!), and what learning has been done through it.... BUT the great thing about being in a new chapter is that the unknown is before us, but the previous chapter is what all the new is pinned on, and you can always flip back to it.  

Riccarton Primary School will be an awesome new adventure, with new excitements and new challenges, i'm looking forward to traveling this new chapter.

Link to original comic strip