Introduction:
Welcome to Lesson 1.3, where we will explore a small but powerful word: “yet.” Adding “yet” to our thoughts and language can make a big difference in how we approach challenges and learning. It helps us shift from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset by reminding us that our abilities can improve over time.
What is the Power of “Yet”?
- Definition: “Yet” is a simple word that signifies potential and growth. When we say, “I can’t do this yet,” we’re acknowledging that while we may not be able to do something right now, we have the potential to learn and improve.
- Impact on Mindset: The word “yet” transforms negative thoughts into positive ones. It helps us stay motivated and keep trying, even when things are tough. By using “yet,” we reinforce the belief that effort and persistence lead to growth.
Examples of the Power of “Yet”:
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Scenario 1: Learning a New Skill
- Fixed Mindset: “I can’t ride a bike.”
- Growth Mindset with “Yet”: “I can’t ride a bike yet.”
- Explanation: The word “yet” suggests that with practice and effort, riding a bike is something you will eventually be able to do.
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Scenario 2: Struggling with Schoolwork
- Fixed Mindset: “I’m not good at math.”
- Growth Mindset with “Yet”: “I’m not good at math yet.”
- Explanation: This phrase encourages continued effort and practice, knowing that improvement is possible over time.
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Scenario 3: Facing Challenges
- Fixed Mindset: “I can’t solve this puzzle.”
- Growth Mindset with “Yet”: “I can’t solve this puzzle yet.”
- Explanation: By adding “yet,” we recognize that solving the puzzle may require more time, patience, and learning, but it’s within reach.
Case Studies:
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Case Study 1: A Student’s Journey with Math
- Scenario: Sarah struggled with math in her early school years. She often said, “I just can’t do math.” Her teacher introduced her to the concept of “yet,” encouraging her to say, “I can’t do math yet.” Over time, Sarah began to approach math problems with more confidence and persistence. With practice, she improved significantly and started enjoying the subject.
- Lesson: The shift from “I can’t” to “I can’t yet” helped Sarah move from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset, leading to improved performance and a positive attitude towards learning.
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Case Study 2: A Professional Athlete’s Training
- Scenario: Alex, a young gymnast, struggled with a difficult routine. She kept saying, “I can’t land this move.” Her coach encouraged her to add “yet” to her statement, reminding her that mastery takes time. By adopting the mindset of “I can’t land this move yet,” Alex continued practicing with determination. Eventually, she successfully landed the move and added it to her routine.
- Lesson: The power of “yet” helped Alex stay motivated and focused on her goal, leading to success through persistent effort.
Activities to Reinforce the Power of “Yet”:
- Activity 1: “Yet” Journal
- Instructions: Have students keep a journal where they write down things they are currently struggling with. For each challenge, they should write a sentence using “yet.” For example, “I can’t solve this problem yet.” Encourage them to revisit their journal periodically to see how they’ve progressed.
- Activity 2: “Yet” Poster
- Instructions: Create a classroom or home poster with the word “Yet” in big, bold letters. Whenever someone expresses doubt about their abilities, encourage them to look at the poster and rephrase their statement using “yet.”
Online Resources for Further Information:
- The Power of Yet – Sesame Street – A fun video featuring the Sesame Street characters that introduces the concept of “yet” to young children.
- Growth Mindset Resources for Kids – Activities and tools for teaching kids the power of “yet” and growth mindset concepts.
- Carol Dweck on the Power of Yet – TED Talk by Carol Dweck discussing the importance of “yet” in developing a growth mindset.
End of Lecture Quiz:
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Question 1: What does the word “yet” suggest when added to a statement?
- A) That you will never be able to do it.
- B) That you cannot do it right now, but you may be able to in the future with effort.
- C) That it’s not worth trying anymore.
- Answer: B
- Rationale: “Yet” implies potential for growth and improvement over time with continued effort.
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Question 2: How can the word “yet” change the way you think about challenges?
- A) It can make you feel more confident and motivated to keep trying.
- B) It can make you feel discouraged and give up.
- C) It has no effect on your mindset.
- Answer: A
- Rationale: Using “yet” helps maintain a positive outlook and encourages perseverance.
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Question 3: Which of the following statements best reflects the power of “yet”?
- A) “I’m bad at drawing.”
- B) “I can’t draw well yet.”
- C) “I will never be good at drawing.”
- Answer: B
- Rationale: This statement acknowledges that while you may not be good at drawing now, there is potential to improve with practice.
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Question 4: Why is it important to use “yet” in your self-talk?
- A) It helps reinforce the belief that you can improve.
- B) It reminds you that you’ll never be good at something.
- C) It makes you feel like you don’t need to try.
- Answer: A
- Rationale: “Yet” encourages a growth mindset by reminding you that improvement is possible with effort.
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Question 5: How did the concept of “yet” help Sarah with her math struggles?
- A) It made her feel like she couldn’t do math at all.
- B) It gave her confidence to keep trying and improving.
- C) It didn’t make any difference.
- Answer: B
- Rationale: By adopting the mindset of “I can’t do math yet,” Sarah was able to persevere and eventually improve in the subject.
Summary:
In this lesson, we explored the power of the word “yet.” By adding “yet” to our thoughts and language, we can transform negative thinking into positive, growth-oriented thinking. “Yet” reminds us that while we may not be able to do something right now, with effort and persistence, we can improve and achieve our goals. Through case studies and activities, we learned how this simple word can help us develop a growth mindset and stay motivated in the face of challenges.
