Teacher Script: Your Brain, Your Business

Warm Up: Mindset Check-In (5 minutes)

"Good morning/afternoon, everyone! Welcome. Today, we're going to talk about something incredibly powerful that shapes not just our academic success, but also our careers, our relationships, and our overall well-being. It's about how we think about our own abilities.

To start, I'd like you all to take one of these slips of paper. Think about a challenge you are currently facing – it could be something in school, a personal goal, or even something you're trying to achieve outside of class. Don't write your name on it, just the challenge. What is one thing that feels difficult or like a hurdle right now?"

(Allow 1-2 minutes for students to write. Collect the papers.)

"Alright, let's look at a few of these anonymously. (Pick a few slips at random). When you face a challenge like this, how does it make you feel? What's your immediate reaction? Do you feel discouraged? Determined? Excited? Keep those feelings in mind as we move forward."

Introduction: What's Your Brain's Business? (10 minutes)

"(Transition to Growth Mindset Slide Deck - Slide 1)

Our lesson today is called 'Your Brain, Your Business: The Power of Mindset'. This title hints at how important our thinking patterns are, almost like they are running our personal and professional lives.

(Advance to Growth Mindset Slide Deck - Slide 2)

So, what exactly is a 'mindset'? When you hear that word, what comes to mind? Take a moment to think about it.

(Pause for student responses, guide them towards definitions like 'a way of thinking', 'beliefs', 'mental attitude')

Exactly! A mindset is basically a set of beliefs or a way of thinking that shapes how we interpret situations and influences our actions and reactions. It's like the operating system for our brain.

(Advance to Growth Mindset Slide Deck - Slide 3)

Today, we're going to explore two very different types of mindsets: the Fixed Mindset and the Growth Mindset. These two ways of thinking can lead us down very different paths in life. Briefly, a fixed mindset believes abilities are static – you either have them or you don't. A growth mindset, however, believes abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. We'll dive deeper into this.

(Optional: Play a short video clip demonstrating fixed vs. growth mindset. After the video, ask a quick question from Growth Mindset Discussion Prompts - Prompt 1, e.g., 'What did you notice about the different approaches taken by the individuals in the video?')"

Deep Dive: Fixed vs. Growth (15 minutes)

"(Advance to Growth Mindset Slide Deck - Slide 4)

Let's talk more about the Fixed Mindset. Someone with a fixed mindset often believes their intelligence and talents are like a set amount – they're born with a certain level, and that's it. Because of this, they might avoid challenges to prevent looking unintelligent, or they might give up easily when faced with obstacles.

Think about it: if you believe your ability is fixed, why try something hard if you might fail? Failure, in a fixed mindset, means you're not smart enough. They also tend to ignore useful negative feedback because it challenges their self-perception, and they might even feel threatened by the success of others, seeing it as proof of their own inadequacy.

Ultimately, a fixed mindset can prevent someone from reaching their full potential because they limit themselves based on perceived inherent abilities.

(Advance to Growth Mindset Slide Deck - Slide 5)

Now, let's contrast that with the Growth Mindset. This is where your brain becomes a 'business' that's constantly expanding! Someone with a growth mindset believes that their intelligence and talents can grow and develop through effort and dedication.

They embrace challenges because they see them as opportunities to learn. When they face setbacks, they persist, understanding that mistakes are part of the learning process. They actively seek out and learn from constructive criticism, using it to improve. And instead of feeling threatened, they find inspiration in the success of others, seeing it as proof that growth is possible.

The result? A growth mindset leads to continuous growth and achievement, opening up a world of possibilities.

(Distribute Growth Mindset Reading. Allow 5-7 minutes for students to read.)

"Now that you've had a chance to read, let's discuss some of the points. (Refer to Growth Mindset Discussion Prompts - Prompts 2-3). For example, 'Can you recall a time when you or someone you know demonstrated a fixed mindset or a growth mindset? What was the outcome?' or 'What's one key difference between the two mindsets that stood out to you in the reading?'"

Activity: Mindset Makeover (15 minutes)

"(Advance to Growth Mindset Slide Deck - Slide 7)

Excellent discussion! Now, it's time to put our growth mindset thinking caps on. We're going to do an activity called 'Mindset Makeover'.

(Distribute Growth Mindset Activity Guide. Explain the activity clearly.)

"I'm going to divide you into small groups. Your task is to take a few fixed mindset statements or situations – these are provided on your activity guide – and transform them into growth mindset opportunities. How would someone with a growth mindset approach this situation? What would they say or do differently? Be creative and think about the actionable steps.

(Circulate among groups, providing support and encouraging discussion.)

"Alright everyone, let's bring it back together. Can one or two groups share an example of a fixed mindset statement they 'made over' and what the growth mindset version looked like?"

Game: Growth Mindset Challenge! (5 minutes)

"That was fantastic work reframing those challenges! Now, for a quick and fun way to reinforce what we've learned, we're going to play the Growth Mindset Game!"

(Explain the game rules from Growth Mindset Game Instructions and facilitate a quick round. For example, 'I'm not good at this!' becomes 'I'm not good at this yet!)"

Consolidation & Next Steps (5 minutes)

"(Advance to Growth Mindset Slide Deck - Slide 8)

We've covered a lot today. Let's quickly review the key takeaways. Remember, your mindset is incredibly powerful – it shapes your reality and potential. The good news is, you have a choice! You can actively cultivate a growth mindset. Effort truly matters; challenges and mistakes are not roadblocks, but opportunities for growth. And always remember to learn continually; embrace feedback and learn from those around you.

For those who want to dive even deeper, I've prepared a Growth Mindset Project Guide and Growth Mindset Project Rubric for a longer, independent activity you might consider.

(Distribute Growth Mindset Worksheet.)

"Finally, I'm handing out a worksheet. This is for you to reflect on today's lesson, or you can complete it as homework to solidify your understanding. It will help you think about how you can apply these concepts in your own life."

Cool Down: Reflection (5 minutes)

"(Advance to Growth Mindset Slide Deck - Slide 9)

As we wrap up, I want you to remember this: your brain is like a muscle – the more you work it, the stronger and smarter it gets! Keep challenging yourself and never stop learning.

(Distribute Growth Mindset Cool Down.)

"Before you go, please complete this quick exit ticket. It asks you to reflect on one thing you learned today and how you might apply a growth mindset to a challenge you face. This will help me understand what resonated most with you."

"Thank you for your engagement today! You've all shown incredible growth mindset thinking."

Growth Mindset Worksheet: Level Up Your Thinking

Name: ____________________________
Date: ____________________________

Part 1: Reflecting on Mindsets

1. In your own words, what is the main difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. Think about a time you faced a challenge. How did you react? Did your thinking lean more towards a fixed or growth mindset? Explain your answer.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. Why do you think having a growth mindset is important for learning and success in life (including business)?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Part 2: Mindset Makeover

For each Fixed Mindset Statement below, rewrite it to reflect a Growth Mindset. Then, suggest one action someone with a growth mindset might take.

Example:
Fixed Mindset Statement: "I'm just not good at math. I'll never understand it."
Growth Mindset Statement: "Math is challenging for me right now, but if I practice more and ask for help, I can improve."
Action: Seek out a tutor or watch explanatory videos.

1. Fixed Mindset Statement: "I failed the test. I'm just not smart enough for this subject."
   Growth Mindset Statement:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Action:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. Fixed Mindset Statement: "My presentation was terrible. I'm so embarrassed; I'm never speaking in front of people again."
   Growth Mindset Statement:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Action:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. Fixed Mindset Statement: "They got the promotion because they're naturally better at sales than me. There's no point in trying harder."
   Growth Mindset Statement:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Action:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Part 3: Personal Growth Plan

Identify one area in your life (academic, personal, hobby, etc.) where you would like to apply a growth mindset. What specific steps will you take to cultivate it?

Area for Growth:

Specific Steps:

The Power of 'Yet': Understanding Your Mindset

Have you ever heard someone say, "I'm just not a math person," or "I'm terrible at public speaking"? These statements often come from what psychologists call a fixed mindset. On the other hand, someone might say, "I'm finding math challenging right now, but I know I can improve with more practice," or "Public speaking makes me nervous, but I'm going to work on my skills." These statements reflect a growth mindset.

So, what's the big difference, and why does it matter for your brain and your future, especially in something like business?

Fixed Mindset: The Belief in Limits

A fixed mindset is the belief that your basic abilities, your intelligence, and your talents are just fixed traits. You have a certain amount, and that's that. If you believe this, you might:

• Avoid challenges: Why try something difficult if you might fail and reveal that you're not smart enough?
• Give up easily: Obstacles are seen as proof that you lack the necessary talent.
• Ignore useful criticism: Feedback feels like a personal attack on your intelligence, rather than an opportunity to improve.
• Feel threatened by others' success: Someone else's achievement makes you feel inadequate because you believe talent is a limited resource.
• Stay in your comfort zone: There's little motivation to push boundaries if you think your potential is already set.

In a fixed mindset, effort isn't necessarily valued. If you're smart, you shouldn't need to try hard. If you struggle, it means you're not smart. This way of thinking can severely limit your learning, resilience, and overall achievement.

Growth Mindset: The Belief in Potential

A growth mindset, championed by Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck, is the belief that your basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. Brains and talent are just the starting point. This view creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment. If you embrace a growth mindset, you might:

• Embrace challenges: They are seen as exciting opportunities to learn and grow.
• Persist through obstacles: Setbacks are viewed as temporary learning experiences, not reasons to give up.
• Learn from criticism: Feedback is valuable information that helps you get better.
• Find inspiration in others' success: Their achievements show you what's possible and motivate you to improve.
• Continually seek to learn and improve: There's an excitement in pushing your limits and developing new skills.

With a growth mindset, effort is seen as the path to mastery. The word "yet" becomes incredibly powerful. "I can't do it" becomes "I can't do it yet." This small word opens up a world of possibilities, encouraging you to keep trying, keep learning, and keep growing.

Why Does Mindset Matter for Your Business (and Life)?

In today's fast-paced world, especially in business, the ability to adapt, learn new skills, and overcome unforeseen problems is crucial. Companies value employees who can grow, innovate, and contribute to solutions, even when faced with difficulties. A growth mindset fosters these very qualities.

It helps individuals and teams:

• Be more resilient: Bouncing back from failures and learning from them.
• Foster innovation: Being open to new ideas and trying different approaches.
• Improve problem-solving: Approaching challenges with curiosity and a belief in finding solutions.
• Achieve greater success: Constantly developing skills and knowledge leads to better outcomes.

Understanding your mindset is the first step. Cultivating a growth mindset is a journey, not a destination. It means actively choosing to view challenges as opportunities, mistakes as lessons, and effort as the key to unlocking your full potential. So, what will your brain's business be?

Growth Mindset Discussion Prompts

These prompts are designed to spark meaningful conversation and deeper reflection on the concepts of fixed and growth mindsets.

Part 1: Initial Thoughts & Observations

1. What did you notice about the different approaches taken by the individuals in the video clip (if shown)? How did their reactions to challenges differ?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. Can you think of a famous person (scientist, athlete, artist, entrepreneur, etc.) who you believe embodies a growth mindset? What qualities or actions make you say that?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Part 2: Personal Experiences & Application

3. Can you recall a specific time when you or someone you know demonstrated a fixed mindset? What was the situation, and what was the outcome? How might the outcome have been different with a growth mindset?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

4. Now, think of a time when you (or someone you know) demonstrated a growth mindset. What happened? How did that way of thinking help overcome a challenge or lead to a positive result?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

5. The reading mentioned the power of the word "yet." How can simply adding "yet" to a statement change your perspective on a challenge?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

6. In what specific areas of your life (e.g., academics, sports, learning a new skill, future career) do you think it would be most beneficial for you to apply a growth mindset? Why?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Part 3: Deeper Exploration

7. Some people might find it difficult to shift from a fixed to a growth mindset. What do you think are some common challenges or barriers to developing a growth mindset?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

8. How can a growth mindset impact not just individual success, but also the success and culture of a team, a classroom, or even a company?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Growth Mindset Makeover Challenge!

Goal: To practice transforming fixed mindset thinking into growth mindset thinking.

Instructions:

1. Work in your assigned small groups.
2. Read each scenario or statement provided below. Identify the fixed mindset thinking present.
3. As a group, discuss how someone with a growth mindset would approach this situation or rephrase the statement.
4. Write down the growth mindset version and one or two specific, actionable steps a person could take to demonstrate that growth mindset.
5. Be prepared to share your group's ideas with the class.

Scenarios for Makeover:

Scenario 1: The Tough Project

• Fixed Mindset Statement: "This project is too hard. I'm not smart enough to figure it out, and I'll probably just mess it up anyway. I'm going to ask for an extension or try to get out of it."
  • Growth Mindset Reframe:
    
    
    
    
    
    
  • Action Steps:
    
    
    
    
    
    

Scenario 2: Receiving Critical Feedback

• Fixed Mindset Statement: "My boss/teacher said my work wasn't up to par. They clearly think I'm incompetent. There's no point in trying harder, they've already made up their mind about me."
  • Growth Mindset Reframe:
    
    
    
    
    
    
  • Action Steps:
    
    
    
    
    
    

Scenario 3: Learning a New Skill (e.g., Coding, a Musical Instrument, a Sport)

• Fixed Mindset Statement: "I've been trying to learn this for a while, and I'm still not good at it. Some people just have a natural talent for this, and I don't. I guess it's not for me."
  • Growth Mindset Reframe:
    
    
    
    
    
    
  • Action Steps:
    
    
    
    
    
    

Scenario 4: A Colleague/Classmate Succeeds Where You Struggle

• Fixed Mindset Statement: "They got the highest score/best performance. It just shows how much better they are than me. I'll never be able to reach their level."
  • Growth Mindset Reframe:
    
    
    
    
    
    
  • Action Steps:
    
    
    
    
    
    

Growth Mindset Challenge Game: Say It With Growth!

Goal: To quickly identify and reframe fixed mindset statements into growth mindset statements.

Players: Whole class, divided into two or more teams.

Materials:

• Whiteboard or projector
• Markers/pens
• List of fixed mindset statements (see examples below)

How to Play:

1. The teacher will read a fixed mindset statement aloud.
2. The first team to correctly rephrase the statement into a growth mindset statement and provide a brief explanation of why it's a growth mindset (e.g., "It focuses on effort," "It sees challenges as opportunities") earns a point.
3. If a team struggles, the other team gets a chance to steal the point.
4. Keep score on the board. The team with the most points at the end wins!

Example Fixed Mindset Statements (Teacher reads these):

• "I'm terrible at this. I'll never get it right."
  • (Growth Reframe Example:) "I'm finding this challenging right now, but I can learn if I keep practicing."
• "She's just naturally talented. I could never do what she does."
  • (Growth Reframe Example:) "She's achieved great things, which shows me what's possible with dedication and effort."
• "Why bother studying? I'm just not a smart person."
  • (Growth Reframe Example:) "If I put in the effort and try new study methods, I can improve my understanding."
• "I made a mistake. I'm so embarrassed and want to give up."
  • (Growth Reframe Example:) "Mistakes are how I learn. What can I do differently next time?"
• "This feedback is so harsh. My teacher/boss doesn't appreciate my work."
  • (Growth Reframe Example:) "This feedback gives me valuable information. How can I use it to improve?"
• "I hate trying new things because I might fail."
  • (Growth Reframe Example:) "Trying new things is a chance to learn, even if I don't succeed on the first try."

Growth Mindset Quiz Answer Key

Question 1:

Which of the following best describes a fixed mindset?

• Correct Answer: Believing your talents are set and cannot change.
• Explanation: A fixed mindset is characterized by the belief that one's abilities, intelligence, and talents are static and cannot be improved significantly through effort. Individuals with this mindset tend to avoid challenges and fear failure because they see it as a reflection of their inherent limitations.

Question 2:

A student with a growth mindset would most likely say:

• Correct Answer: "I made a mistake, but I can learn from it and try again."
• Explanation: A growth mindset embraces mistakes as essential parts of the learning process. This statement shows a willingness to learn from errors, persist, and apply effort for future improvement, which are all hallmarks of a growth mindset.

Question 3:

When faced with a difficult task, someone with a fixed mindset might:

• Correct Answer: Avoid the task to prevent failure.
• Explanation: Individuals with a fixed mindset often avoid challenges to protect their perceived intelligence or talent. They see difficult tasks as threats that could expose their limitations rather than opportunities for growth.

Question 4:

Explain, in your own words, how a growth mindset can help you achieve your goals, especially when facing setbacks.

• Example Growth Mindset Response & Reasoning:
  A growth mindset helps you see setbacks as opportunities to learn and improve, rather than as evidence of a lack of ability. It encourages persistence, seeking new strategies, and viewing effort as the path to mastery, which ultimately leads to greater achievement.

  • Reasoning: This response effectively defines how a growth mindset reframes setbacks (from failures to learning opportunities). It correctly identifies key behaviors associated with a growth mindset (persistence, seeking strategies, valuing effort) and links these behaviors directly to achieving goals.

Growth Mindset Project Guide: My Growth Journey

Project Goal: To apply the principles of a growth mindset to a personal challenge or goal and reflect on the process.

Introduction: We've learned about fixed and growth mindsets. Now it's your turn to put a growth mindset into action! This project asks you to identify an area where you want to grow, create a plan, execute it, and then reflect on your journey.

Project Deliverables:

1. Project Proposal (Due: [Date])

   • Identify Your Growth Area: Choose one specific skill, challenge, or personal goal where you want to apply a growth mindset. This could be academic (e.g., improving in a difficult subject), personal (e.g., learning a new hobby, developing a new habit), or related to future career aspirations (e.g., learning a specific software, improving public speaking).
   • Fixed Mindset Check: Briefly describe how someone with a fixed mindset might approach this challenge or goal. What negative thoughts or limiting beliefs might they have?
   • Growth Mindset Goal: Clearly state your goal using growth mindset language. How will you approach this with the belief that your abilities can develop?
   • Action Plan: Outline 3-5 specific, measurable steps you will take to work towards your goal. These should be steps that demonstrate effort, learning from mistakes, and seeking help when needed. Include a timeline for these steps.

2. Growth Journey Log (Ongoing, submit by: [Date])

   • Keep a log (can be a written journal, a digital document, or even a video log) detailing your progress. For at least 5 entries, describe:
     • The challenge or setback you faced that day/week.
     • Your initial fixed mindset thoughts (if any).
     • How you consciously shifted to a growth mindset.
     • The actions you took based on your growth mindset.
     • What you learned or how you grew from the experience.
   • Each entry should be at least 1-2 paragraphs long.

3. Final Reflection & Presentation (Due: [Date])

   • Written Reflection (500-750 words): Summarize your entire growth journey. Discuss:
     • What was your initial goal, and what fixed mindset barriers did you anticipate or encounter?
     • How did you apply growth mindset principles (embracing challenges, persistence, learning from feedback, inspired by others) throughout your project?
     • What were your biggest successes and biggest learning moments (mistakes/setbacks)?
     • How has this project changed your understanding of your own potential?
     • How will you continue to apply a growth mindset in the future?
   • Short Presentation (3-5 minutes): Share the highlights of your growth journey with the class. You can use visual aids (photos, short video clips, a simple slide) if you wish. Focus on your key takeaways and what you learned about having a growth mindset in action.

Growth Mindset Project Rubric

Student Name: ____________________________

Project Title: ____________________________

Overall Score: __________ / 20

Teacher Comments:

Growth Mindset Warm Up: Challenge Check-In

Time: 5 Minutes

Instructions:

1. Take one small slip of paper or a sticky note.
2. Think about one challenge you are currently facing, or have recently faced. This could be academic, personal, or related to a skill you're trying to learn. Write it down clearly on the paper (without your name).
   • Examples: "Struggling with a specific math problem," "Trying to learn to play a new song on guitar," "Having trouble with a group project," "Feeling overwhelmed by a big assignment."
3. On the other side of the paper, briefly write down your immediate, gut reaction to this challenge. How did it make you feel? What was your first thought?
   • Examples: "Frustrated," "Wanted to give up," "Felt excited to figure it out," "Worried I wasn't smart enough."
4. When you're done, fold your paper and place it in the designated collection area.

(Teacher will collect papers and use a few anonymous examples to kick off the discussion about initial reactions to challenges.)

Growth Mindset Cool Down: Reflection Ticket

Name: ____________________________

Instructions: Please answer the following questions to reflect on today's lesson.

1. What is one key idea about growth mindset that you learned or that stood out to you today?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. Think back to the challenge you wrote down at the beginning of class during the Warm Up. How might you approach that challenge differently now, applying a growth mindset?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. On a scale of 1 to 5, how confident are you feeling about trying to apply a growth mindset in your own life? (Circle one)
   1 (Not confident) 2 (A little confident) 3 (Moderately confident) 4 (Confident) 5 (Very confident)

4. What is one question you still have about growth mindset, or one area you'd like to explore further?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Growth Mindset Project Guide: My Growth Journey

Project Goal: To apply the principles of a growth mindset to a personal challenge or goal and reflect on the process.

Introduction: We've learned about fixed and growth mindsets. Now it's your turn to put a growth mindset into action! This project asks you to identify an area where you want to grow, create a plan, execute it, and then reflect on your journey.

Project Deliverables:

1. Project Proposal (Due: [Date])

   • Identify Your Growth Area: Choose one specific skill, challenge, or personal goal where you want to apply a growth mindset. This could be academic (e.g., improving in a difficult subject), personal (e.g., learning a new hobby, developing a new habit), or related to future career aspirations (e.g., learning a specific software, improving public speaking).
   • Fixed Mindset Check: Briefly describe how someone with a fixed mindset might approach this challenge or goal. What negative thoughts or limiting beliefs might they have?
   • Growth Mindset Goal: Clearly state your goal using growth mindset language. How will you approach this with the belief that your abilities can develop?
   • Action Plan: Outline 3-5 specific, measurable steps you will take to work towards your goal. These should be steps that demonstrate effort, learning from mistakes, and seeking help when needed. Include a timeline for these steps.

2. Growth Journey Log (Ongoing, submit by: [Date])

   • Keep a log (can be a written journal, a digital document, or even a video log) detailing your progress. For at least 5 entries, describe:
     • The challenge or setback you faced that day/week.
     • Your initial fixed mindset thoughts (if any).
     • How you consciously shifted to a growth mindset.
     • The actions you took based on your growth mindset.
     • What you learned or how you grew from the experience.
   • Each entry should be at least 1-2 paragraphs long.

3. Final Reflection & Presentation (Due: [Date])

   • Written Reflection (500-750 words): Summarize your entire growth journey. Discuss:
     • What was your initial goal, and what fixed mindset barriers did you anticipate or encounter?
     • How did you apply growth mindset principles (embracing challenges, persistence, learning from feedback, inspired by others) throughout your project?
     • What were your biggest successes and biggest learning moments (mistakes/setbacks)?
     • How has this project changed your understanding of your own potential?
     • How will you continue to apply a growth mindset in the future?
   • Short Presentation (3-5 minutes): Share the highlights of your growth journey with the class. You can use visual aids (photos, short video clips, a simple slide) if you wish. Focus on your key takeaways and what you learned about having a growth mindset in action.