2) Teacher Talk – Make Mistakes Normal or "Mistake Friendly Optimism"

The beginning of class is an awesome time to build connections, generate interest and student buy in.

To normalize mistakes, we can infuse growth mindset language into our classroom structure and routines.

Teachers who have morning meetings can use this time to discuss growth mindset and set the stage for learning.

Secondary school teachers can also embed growth mindset language into the beginning of class. One teacher shared:

"At the beginning of every class, I made it a priority to create a mistake friendly classroom and was intentional with my words. As I introduced the day’s learning objective, I informed students that the math skills they were learning are challenging. I expect them to make mistakes and honor Einstein who once said, 'anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.'

Some examples of statements we can use include:

“I expect you will make mistakes. Math challenges your mind, and you are always learning."
“Mistakes make our brains grow. Embrace them!”
“Intelligence can be learned. For every mistake you make. a dendrite grows!”
“Today, you will challenge your mind. You will make mistakes and your mind will grow!”
“Edison found 10,000 ways the light bulb wouldn’t work. We may find 10,000 ways to incorrectly answer a problem. Embrace mistakes. They are part of the journey!”
“Failure does not define me. It can be painful but helps me grow.”

Observe how a teacher uses morning routines to establish a safe zone for mistakes and build academic courage. There are two different videos: Elementary and Secondary School videos:

Elementary: Morning Routines that Foster a Growth Mindset

Secondary School: https://learn.teachingchannel.com/video/class-warm-up-routine/?1621890362553

Take it a Step Further with Music:
Some teachers like to play music in the morning before class. Several websites share songs that inspire a growth mindset. Some songs are noted on the following websites:

https://numberock.com/lessons/growth-mindset/

https://freespiritpublishingblog.com/2019/06/24/the-power-of-yet-40-songs-for-supporting-a-growth-mindset/

https://biglifejournal.com/blogs/blog/motivational-songs-growth-mindset-kids