The Fixed Mindset vs. the Growth Mindset

• Always prove himself/herself• Avoid challenges• Give up easily when faced

w/challenges• See effort as fruitless or

worse

• Ignore criticism or useful feedback

• Find excuses/point blame for failure

• Feel threatened by the success of others

• Embrace challenges• Persist in the face of

setbacks• See effort as the path to

mastery

• Learn from criticism/feedback

• Are reflective in failure• Find lessons/inspiration in

the success of others

The Fixed Mindset in our Students

“I can’t do math!”

“I’m just not good at this.”“I’ll never be as smartas her…”

“I can’t do it… it’s too hard.”

“I’m awesome at

this!”

“It’s good enough.”“I give up!”

“I made a mistake.”

What the Growth Mindset Tells Us…

“I’m going to train

my brain in math.”

“What am I missing?””“I’m going to figure out whatshe does and try it.”

“This may take some time

and effort.”

“I’m on the right

track.”

“Is this really my best work?”“I should try some of the strategies I’ve learned.”

“Mistakes help me improve.”