Thursday, August 31, 2017

Learning About Growth Mindset

Today we introduced the concept of Growth Mindset. After self-reflecting on our own growth mindset we read the book Your Fantastic Elastic Brain. Here is a read aloud you can watch at home! Your Fantastic Elastic Brain

Next we brainstormed all of our strengths and reflect on what we would like to get better at. 

Finally, we crumpled up a piece of paper and traced all of the wrinkles to show the neurons in our brain at work when we make a mistake. When we make a mistake our brain stretches and gets stronger! We learned that we need mistakes to become better learners! Check out some of our brains! 





Here are the big ideas we took away from the book! 
  • The brain is an organ that controls what you think, do, feel and remember
  • When you try hard to learn something new, connections grow from neurons and attach to other neurons
  • Making mistakes really helps you learn because your brain keeps trying new things and STRETCHING until you figure out the answer to your problem
  • You are shaping a more elastic brain when you learn new things that build on what you already know
We can't wait to show you this activity at Open House on Sept. 12th (6:00 - 7:30)

Mrs. Finnerty


Back To School Family Letter

I changed the settings so everyone should be able to view my Back to School Family Letter. I apologize if you were unable to access it last night!

Mrs. Finnerty

Wednesday, August 30, 2017

Welcome Back!

Welcome 4th Grade Superheroes!

I am anxiously awaiting your arrival this morning! I excited to get to know you and to learn with you! I love teaching 4th grade. You will learn and grow as a student and as a person over the course of the year. I hope to stretch your thinking, encourage you to take risks and teach you how you can learn from your mistakes. This year we will become a family that will support you through the incredible journey that 4th grade is! See you soon!

Love,
Mrs. Finnerty

Back to School Letter For Parents and Families