Title: How to Develop a Growth Mindset and Create a Positive School Environment for Under-Resourced Students | Waterford.org
Headings: How to Develop a Growth Mindset and Create a Positive School Environment for Under-Resourced Students
Education
How to Develop a Growth Mindset and Create a Positive School Environment for Under-Resourced Students
Challenges Educators Face While Teaching Under-Resourced Students
What is a Fixed Mindset vs Growth Mindset?
Benefits of a Fixed vs Growth Mindset in Education
Growth Mindset Activities and Tips for Teachers

Content: One study found that students who met for 90 minutes each week with a mentor trained in growth mindset practices saw a 4.5-point gain in mathematics and a 4-point gain in reading test scores. [ 15] If a student believes that they have a high potential for educational attainment, they’re more likely to practice often and find ways to turn their weaknesses into strengths. A growth mindset for students can also lead to the following benefits: Encourages intrinsic motivation to learn [16]
Strengthens happiness and life satisfaction [17]
Reduces anxiety and chronic stress [18]
Can help close the achievement gap [19]
Encouraging growth mindsets is essential for creating a classroom environment conducive to learning for all children but particularly under-resourced students. Educational researchers have found that understanding fixed and growth mindsets can not only stop plummeting grades in struggling students but also put them on the pathway to academic growth. [ 20] In particular, growth mindsets have been proven effective for: ELL students [21]
Minority students [22]
Immigrant students [23]
Students from low-income families [24]
Growth Mindset Activities and Tips for Teachers
Because a child’s perspective is more likely to be shaped by their mentors, early elementary is the best time to teach students about mindsets in the classroom. [ 25] But whether you’re a kindergarten teacher or a high school principal, encouraging a growth mindset in your students can play a vital part in closing the achievement gap for your school. Use these five tips to promote a growth mindset at your school, as well as avoid common mistakes that can lead to fixed mindsets: When teaching students, place a greater emphasis on the learning process (like practicing, asking for help, or trying new strategies) than on intellect or talent [26]
Encourage students to practice subjects that they see as weaknesses.