Sunday, October 21, 2012

I Used to Think... But Now I Know...


Last year, Mrs. Saxon found this quote, which is perfect for our discussion about YET:

“I may not be there yet, but I’m closer than I was yesterday.” – Author unknown

I love the way we've used the phrase YET in class, and I hope we will continue these kinds of reminders.
  • Ms. Laster--my homework isn't finished.  YET!
  • I don't understand what we're doing in class...YET!
  • I don't think I'm ready for the test...YET!
  • I don't want to do this assignment...YET!

I first heard this idea at a presentation by Dr. Carol Dweck, who wrote the book Mindset.  (Have you heard me talk about growth and fixed mindsets?  Haha!  Check out her blog!)  I think this idea is very powerful, and it has changed the way I'm thinking and working, not only at school, but also at home and with family.

If you're trying to change from a growth to a fixed mindset, Dr. Dweck has these suggestions, taken from her website:
  1. Listen and realize when you are "hearing" a fixed mindset voice.  (I'll never make a hexaflexagon!)
  2. Realize you have choice--to think with a growth mindset. (...YET!)
  3. Talk back with a growth mindset.  (I'll get it if I continue to practice and if Kelly tutors me!)
  4. Take action!  (Just do it!)
Do you have a growth or fixed mindset?  Actually, for some areas, you may have a fixed mindset (mine is sports!) but for others, you may have a growth mindset.  What are you doing to change your mindset?

If you have a fixed mindset about trig identities, what can you do about it?  OR what have you done about it?  If there is something else about our class that you have learned, please share it below in the comments.  Please respond to this post with:

I used to think_______ but now I know________

You may fill in the blanks with something about trig identities or anything else about our class.

Thank you for your time!  I know I'll enjoy reading your comments!