Fixed vs. Growth Mindset

• Have 1-2 students share what they think fixed and growth mindsets might mean. [Most of them most likely have heard the terms before in high school.]

  • Fixed mindset: A fixed mindset is when you believe your abilities — like intelligence, talent, or skills — are set in stone. People with a fixed mindset often think, “I’m just not good at this,” and avoid challenges because they fear failure or looking “not smart.” 

  • Growth mindset: A growth mindset is when you believe you can improve through effort, good strategies, and learning from mistakes. People with a growth mindset are more likely to keep trying, ask for help, and view setbacks as part of the learning process. 

• Have students review the list of fixed mindset statements on the slide provided. With a partner or in a small group, have them re-write 5 of the statements to reflect a growth mindset. Model the exercise with the example below:

  • Fixed mindset: “I give up. This is too hard.” 

  • Growth mindset: “This is hard, but I can break it down and keep trying.” 

Whole-Group Debrief

• Have a different pair/group share their rewrite for each of the examples on the slide.

• Have 2-3 students respond to the discussion prompts:

  • How do your internal thoughts influence your performance and confidence?

  • Have you ever surprised yourself by improving at something over time?

COMING SOON!