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Reflecting on everything learned and planning for future learning adventures.
Remember when you didn't know how to tie your shoes or read a whole sentence? Now you do! How did your brain turn those 'hard things' into 'easy things'?
Think back to the very first day of school. There were probably many things you didn't know how to do. Maybe you didn't know how to add big numbers or write a long story. When we struggle with something new, we use a very special word: Yet. You didn't know those things yet! But because you tried, your brain started to change. Every time you try something new, you are a Learning Explorer. Looking back at what you have learned helps you see just how much you have grown.
1. Last year, you might have only read short words like 'cat' or 'sun'. 2. You practiced every day with your teacher and family. 3. Now, you can read whole chapters! You climbed the ladder one step at a time.
Quick Check
What is one thing you can do now that was hard for you at the start of the year?
Answer
Answers will vary, such as reading longer books, doing harder math, or playing a new sport.
Imagine you are learning to add . 1. At first, you might count on your fingers: . 2. After practicing, your brain remembers the pattern: , so . 3. Now, you don't even have to think about it! Your brain muscle did the heavy lifting.
Quick Check
What happens to your brain when you practice something over and over?
Answer
It makes new connections and gets stronger, just like a muscle.
Learning never stops! Now that you know how to grow your brain, you can pick a New Goal. To reach a goal, you need a plan. A good plan is like a map for your brain. You decide what you want to learn, how you will practice, and who can help you. Even if you fail at first, remember the power of Yet. If you want to learn new things, and you master each month, you will be an expert in no time!
1. Goal: Ride without training wheels. 2. Practice: Ride for minutes every Saturday. 3. Help: Ask a grown-up to hold the back of the seat. 4. Result: After weeks, you can balance all by yourself!
What should you say if you can't do something new?
How does your brain change when you practice?
True or False: You can always learn new things if you have a plan and practice.
Review Tomorrow
Tomorrow morning, tell a friend or family member one thing you are proud of learning this year.
Practice Activity
Draw a picture of your 'Next Big Goal' and write down one way you will practice it this week.