Be an Advocate for Developing a Growth Mindset

Use this resource in your games center, or as a whole class exercise (see below) to practice being proactive in promoting a growth mindset.

Using a permanent marker, number a set of Jenga™ blocks 1-54.  

To play, project the list of questions or provide the list on a sheet of paper. Set up the tower by stacking the blocks in sets of 3, rotating each layer by 90°. Then split the class or a small group into two teams and have one person at a time pull a block. Students announce the number they pulled, and the teacher will help them read the question corresponding with the number on the question sheet.

After a player answers the question, they stick their wood piece on the top of the tower, rotating it to keep the tower balanced. Players take turns pulling blocks and answering the questions until the tower falls over 

Scaffolding and Extension Tips + More Growth Mindset Games

Challenge students who already understand the concept—have multiple games running and allow students to run the game themselves. 

Support students who need help understanding the concepts by working in small peer groups.

Use this resource as independent practice for fast finishers, and for full-class learning opportunities like scoot activities, lesson reviews, class check-ins, and more.

📔 Journaling

Project the sheet at the front of the room, and have students take turns selecting a numbered wooden block from the set. Each student will find their corresponding question from the sheet and write their answers as an entry in their personal journal. Alternatively, students can draw a picture that illustrates their response to the question. 

🗣️ Turn & Talk 

Invite students to pair up with someone in the seat nearest to them for a 5-minute Turn & Talk. You can choose to have students focus on a specific self-reflection question, or allow students to pull a wooden piece and select their own. Use this Turn & Talk session to encourage students to make space for each other by actively listening, asking questions, and practicing empathy. 

🖍️ Create a Story

Allow students to choose a piece and write their questions at the top of a piece of blank paper. Either at home or in the classroom, students will draw a short comic (3-6 frames) that illustrates their response to the question they pulled. Students can pair up and share their comics with each other, ask questions, and make space for self-reflection. 

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Print on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

Before You Download

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. 

This resource was made in collaboration with Colleen Burke, a teacher in New York and a Teach Starter Collaborator. 

Check out more helpful growth mindset resources from our Social and Emotional Learning area:

[resource:4669926]   [resource:4661620]   [resource:4692509]