Growth Mindset GPS Script

Introduction & Growth Mindset Hook (5 minutes)

(Display Growth Mindset GPS Slide Deck - Slide 1: "Your Growth Mindset GPS")

"Good morning, everyone! Today, we're going to embark on an exciting journey with our very own Growth Mindset GPS! Just like a GPS helps us navigate to new places, our growth mindset helps us navigate our learning journey, especially as we get ready for a new school year. And hey, congratulations on finishing Interim Assessment #2! That's a huge accomplishment!"

(Display Growth Mindset GPS Slide Deck - Slide 2: "What's Your Learning Compass?")

"Think about it: How can having a growth mindset help us as we look back at our learning from the interim assessment, celebrate our successes, and look ahead to new challenges? What does it mean to learn from something, even if it was tough?"

(Pause for 2-3 student responses, encouraging thoughts on learning from mistakes, perseverance, and improving.)

"Exactly! A growth mindset helps us see challenges not as roadblocks, but as opportunities to grow stronger and smarter. Today, we're going to use this mindset to set some awesome intentions for the new school year."

Scavenger Hunt Explanation (5 minutes)

(Display Growth Mindset GPS Slide Deck - Slide 3: "Reflection Scavenger Hunt!")

"Now, get ready for a Reflection Scavenger Hunt! I've placed some everyday items around the classroom. Each item can represent an idea about reflection or a New Year's resolution – a goal for personal growth. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to find each item and think about what it means to you and your learning journey."

"You each have a Reflection Scavenger Hunt Worksheet. On this sheet, you'll see a list of the items. For each item you find, you'll do two things:

1. First, write down what you think the item represents. I'll give you some ideas on the next slides, but feel free to add your own thoughts!
2. Second, and most importantly, connect it to your own New Year's resolution or a learning goal for the new school year. How can you use a growth mindset to achieve that goal?"

"Remember to move quietly and thoughtfully around the room. This is a time for personal reflection. The goal isn't to be the fastest, but to think deeply. Does that make sense? Any questions before we begin?"

(Address any questions.)

(Display Growth Mindset GPS Slide Deck - Slides 4-6: Item Clues)

"As you find the items, these slides will give you some prompts for what they might represent. Let's look at the first few examples..."

(Briefly go through slides 4-6, giving students a quick overview of the item representations without dwelling on them. Encourage them to refer back to the slides as they work.)

Reflection Scavenger Hunt Activity (15 minutes)

(Display Growth Mindset GPS Slide Deck - Slide 7: "Time to Reflect & Write!")

"Alright, explorers! You have 15 minutes to find all the items and complete your Reflection Scavenger Hunt Worksheet. Think about how each item can inspire you to learn, grow, and overcome challenges with a growth mindset. You may begin!"

(Start timer. Circulate around the room, offering quiet encouragement and answering individual questions. Observe students' engagement and reflections. Remind students to focus on the growth mindset connection.)

Wrap-up & Share (Optional) (5 minutes)

(Ring bell or give a 1-minute warning for students to finish up.)

"Alright, amazing explorers, time's up! Please make your way back to your seats and bring your worksheets with you."

(Display Growth Mindset GPS Slide Deck - Slide 8: "Your Journey Continues!")

"Wow, I saw some incredible thinking out there! Who would like to share one item they found and how it connects to their growth mindset resolution for the new school year? Don't be shy – sharing our reflections helps us all learn!"

(Call on 2-3 students to share. Give positive feedback and reinforce the growth mindset connection.)

"Fantastic job, everyone! This scavenger hunt was a great way to kick off our growth mindset journey for the new school year. Remember, every challenge you face, every mistake you make, and every new thing you try is an opportunity to learn and grow. Keep that Growth Mindset GPS active, and I can't wait to see all the amazing things you'll accomplish!"

Reflection Scavenger Hunt Worksheet: Your Growth Mindset GPS

Name: __________________________
Date: __________________________

Welcome, explorers! Use your Growth Mindset GPS to navigate our classroom and discover items that will inspire your learning journey for the new school year. For each item you find, write down what it represents and how it connects to your personal New Year's resolution or a learning goal, keeping your growth mindset in mind!

Instructions:

1. Walk around the classroom and find each item on the list.
2. For each item, write down what you think it represents (its meaning for reflection or growth).
3. Then, write how this item connects to your own learning goal or a New Year's resolution, specifically thinking about how you will use a growth mindset to achieve it.

1. Item: Pencil or Pen

• What it represents:
  
  
  
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal:
  
  
  
  
  
  

2. Item: Sticky Notes

• What it represents:
  
  
  
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal:
  
  
  
  
  
  

3. Item: Timer or Stopwatch

• What it represents:
  
  
  
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal:
  
  
  
  
  
  

4. Item: Notebook

• What it represents:
  
  
  
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal:
  
  
  
  
  
  

5. Item: Book

• What it represents:
  
  
  
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal:
  
  
  
  
  
  

6. Item: Ruler or Measuring Tape

• What it represents:
  
  
  
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal:
  
  
  
  
  
  

7. Item: Calendar or Mini Planner

• What it represents:
  
  
  
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal:
  
  
  
  
  
  

8. Item: Eraser

• What it represents:
  
  
  
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal:
  
  
  
  
  
  

9. Item: Small Ball or Beanbag

• What it represents:
  
  
  
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal:
  
  
  
  
  
  

10. Item: Paper Snowflake or Crumpled Paper Ball

• What it represents:
  
  
  
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal:
  
  
  
  
  
  

Reflection Scavenger Hunt Answer Key

This answer key provides example representations for each item and guidance for connecting them to growth mindset resolutions. Student answers for the 'How it connects' section will vary greatly and should be evaluated based on thoughtfulness and alignment with growth mindset principles.

1. Item: Pencil or Pen

• What it represents (Example): A resolution to write more, record thoughts, or practice writing skills. It can also represent the ability to make marks and create, just like we create our own learning paths.
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal (Guidance): Look for connections to actively participating in learning through writing, journaling, or practicing. For example: "I will use my pencil to write down questions I have, even if I think they sound silly, because asking questions helps me learn and grow." or "I will write in a learning journal weekly to track my progress and reflect on challenges, using my growth mindset to see how far I've come."

2. Item: Sticky Notes

• What it represents (Example): Organizing thoughts, setting small achievable goals, remembering important ideas, or breaking down big tasks into smaller steps. They represent flexibility and quick reminders.
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal (Guidance): Focus on planning, breaking down tasks, or remembering strategies. For example: "I will use sticky notes to remind myself of new strategies when I get stuck on a problem, knowing that I can try different ways to solve it." or "I'll put sticky notes with positive affirmations (like 'I can do hard things!') on my desk to remind me to have a growth mindset when I face challenges."

3. Item: Timer or Stopwatch

• What it represents (Example): Managing time better, focusing on tasks for specific periods, practicing time management skills, or pacing oneself during learning activities.
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal (Guidance): Emphasize perseverance and focused effort. For example: "I will use a timer to practice focusing on one task for 15 minutes without getting distracted, knowing that my focus muscle can grow stronger." or "I will set a timer for my reading practice each day, even if I find the book challenging, to build my reading stamina."

4. Item: Notebook

• What it represents (Example): A commitment to learning, tracking progress, keeping notes, exploring new subjects, or a personal space for ideas and discoveries. It's a record of the learning journey.
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal (Guidance): Connect to ongoing learning, documenting progress, or deepening understanding. For example: "I will use my notebook to record my 'aha!' moments and also the 'I'm stuck' moments, so I can see how I overcome challenges with a growth mindset." or "I will fill my notebook with new vocabulary words and practice using them, understanding that building my vocabulary is a continuous process."

5. Item: Book

• What it represents (Example): A goal to read more, explore new topics, gain knowledge, or develop empathy through stories. Books are portals to new ideas and perspectives.
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal (Guidance): Focus on expanding knowledge, curiosity, and reading skills. For example: "I will choose books about topics I don't know much about, even if they seem difficult at first, because I want to grow my understanding of the world." or "I will commit to reading for 20 minutes every day, knowing that the more I read, the stronger my brain becomes."

6. Item: Ruler or Measuring Tape

• What it represents (Example): Measuring growth or improvement, setting clear benchmarks, understanding personal progress, or seeing how far you've come from a starting point.
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal (Guidance): Emphasize tracking progress, celebrating small gains, and setting realistic goals. For example: "I will use this concept of 'measuring' to track my progress on my math facts, celebrating every improvement, no matter how small." or "I will measure my understanding of a new concept by reviewing my work and identifying areas where I've grown, rather than just focusing on mistakes."

7. Item: Calendar or Mini Planner

• What it represents (Example): Planning for future goals, organizing tasks, setting deadlines, looking ahead, and managing responsibilities effectively.
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal (Guidance): Connect to future planning, goal setting, and time management. For example: "I will use a calendar to plan out my study time for challenging subjects, knowing that consistent effort over time leads to growth." or "I will plan to review my notes each evening, even when I'm tired, because consistent practice builds a strong learning foundation."

8. Item: Eraser

• What it represents (Example): Learning from mistakes, trying again, correcting errors, understanding that mistakes are part of the learning process, and not giving up when things go wrong.
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal (Guidance): This is a key growth mindset item! Focus on embracing mistakes as learning opportunities. For example: "When I make a mistake in my homework, I will use my 'mental eraser' to re-think and try a different strategy, instead of getting frustrated." or "I will see my errors as chances to learn and improve, just like an eraser helps me start fresh."

9. Item: Small Ball or Beanbag

• What it represents (Example): Taking action, being active in your learning, playing, engaging, being flexible, or participating fully in classroom activities.
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal (Guidance): Emphasize active participation, trying new things, and taking initiative. For example: "I will 'throw myself' into group projects and activities, even if I'm shy, because working with others helps me learn in new ways." or "I will actively participate in class discussions by sharing my ideas, even if I'm not perfectly sure, because speaking up helps my understanding grow."

10. Item: Paper Snowflake or Crumpled Paper Ball

• What it represents (Example): Reflecting on the past year (like a crumpled paper ball of old ideas) and starting fresh (like a pristine snowflake), new beginnings, letting go of past struggles, or recognizing uniqueness and potential.
• How it connects to my growth mindset resolution/learning goal (Guidance): Focus on fresh starts, resilience, and optimism for the future. For example: "I will crumple up any old negative thoughts about my abilities and instead create a new, beautiful 'snowflake' of positive intentions for my learning this year." or "I will reflect on what worked well last year and what didn't, then use that reflection to start fresh with new strategies and a stronger growth mindset."

Calm Down Corner Guide: Finding Your Calm

Sometimes, our feelings can get really big, and it's hard to focus or learn. That's why we have a Calm Down Corner in our classroom! It's a special, quiet place where you can go to help yourself feel better and get ready to learn again.

What is the Calm Down Corner?

It's a designated space in the classroom with tools to help you:

• Recognize your feelings: Understand what you're feeling.
• Calm your body and mind: Use strategies to relax.
• Problem-solve: Think about what you need to do next.
• Return to learning: Get ready to rejoin the class feeling refreshed.

How to Use the Calm Down Corner (Your Calm-Down GPS!)

Think of these steps as your own personal GPS to guide you back to calm:

Step 1: Check-In with Your Feelings

• When you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or upset, take a moment to notice what's happening inside you. What emotion are you feeling? Where do you feel it in your body?
  
  
  
  

Step 2: Ask for Permission

• Quietly signal to the teacher (or use our agreed-upon non-verbal signal) that you need to visit the Calm Down Corner. Wait for a nod or signal back.
  
  
  

Step 3: Choose a Tool

• Once in the Calm Down Corner, choose one or two tools to help you. These might include:
  • Breathing Cards: Follow the steps to take deep, calming breaths.
  • Fidget Toys: Use a stress ball, tangle, or other fidget to help release energy.
  • Sensory Bottles: Watch the glitter or objects slowly fall to help focus your mind.
  • Quiet Reading: Pick a calming book to read for a few minutes.
  • Drawing/Doodling: Use paper and pencils to express your feelings silently.
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    

Step 4: Practice Your Calm-Down Strategy

• Spend a few minutes (e.g., 3-5 minutes, or use a visual timer if available) actively using your chosen tool. Focus on your breathing and how your body feels as you relax.
  
  
  
  

Step 5: Reflect and Rejoin

• When you feel calmer, take one last deep breath. Think: "Am I ready to go back to learning?" If yes, quietly return to your seat and continue with class. If you still need a little more time, try another strategy or quietly let the teacher know.
  
  
  
  
  
  

Remember, the Calm Down Corner is a tool to help you learn and grow, just like our Growth Mindset GPS! It's about taking charge of your feelings and building resilience.

My Growth Journey Journal

Name: __________________________
Date: __________________________

Welcome to your Growth Journey Journal! This is a special place for you to reflect on your learning, celebrate your progress, and think about how you use a growth mindset to overcome challenges. Remember, every challenge is a chance to grow!

Prompt 1: A Challenge I Faced (and How I Grew)

Think about a time recently when you faced a challenge in school. Maybe a tricky math problem, a difficult reading passage, or a project that seemed too big. Describe the challenge and how you felt when you first encountered it.

Now, how did you use your growth mindset to approach this challenge? Did you try different strategies? Ask for help? Keep practicing even when it was hard? What did you learn about yourself through this experience?

Prompt 2: My Next Learning Adventure

Looking ahead to the new school year, what is one new skill or topic you are excited to learn or improve upon? Why is this important to you?

How will you apply a growth mindset to achieve this goal? What steps will you take? What might be some challenges, and how will you overcome them? (Think about learning from mistakes and persisting!)

Prompt 3: A Growth Mindset Moment

Write about a time when you saw someone else (a classmate, a character in a book, a family member) use a growth mindset. What did they do, and how did it inspire you?

Or, describe a specific growth mindset phrase or idea that helps you when things get tough. How do you remind yourself that your brain can grow?