Habits and Mindsets
Students reference their teacher's guidance in organization, study habits, character traits and values (like persistence, striving for accuracy, etc.). They have internalized these traits beyond just talking about them which has led to personal growth on the part of the student.
Introduction
If you were to come into my classroom, you would be greeted by twenty-one bright, cheery voices that immediately have a hundred questions that need to be answered. They are eager to interact and are filled with curiosity as they continue to develop and make sense of their environment, their relationships, and the knowledge they acquire in school. For the majority of them, this is the first time in school and an incredibly structured setting. Like anyone in a new environment, they experience challenges as they are continuously presented with new material. For some, the learning curve is steep due to lack of exposure to academia, language barriers, or disabilities. However, all scholars, still need support “in increasing their capacities and capabilities [and] developing their interpersonal intelligence” (Costa, A.L & Kallick, B, 20009a, p.17). Thus, my mission is that my students develop mindsets that will support their acquisition of a growth mindset, preparing them “with the skills to tackle the twin problems of paradox and uncertainty in a more and more complex world” (Costa, A.L & Kallick, B, 20009a, p.19). The two habits of mind that I practice in my classroom are persistence and managing impulsivity which in turn help students develop a growth mindset.
Click the link above to learn about how students practice and develop their ability to manage their impulsivity.
Conclusion
Since the beginning of the year, my students have been in the process of developing habits and mindsets through explicit lessons and reinforcing activities. Due to their age, it is beneficial that the lessons are similarly set up, and the outcomes show as students can explain what persistence and managing their impulses look like in and outside of the classroom. By integrating the habits and mindsets into my class, I believe my students will have the necessary mindsets to take on rigorous work and succeed.
REFERENCES
Costa, A. L., & Kallick, B. (Eds.). (2009a). Habits of Mind across the curriculum: Practical and creative strategies for teachers. Alexandria, VA: ASC.
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