The Beauty of the Word “Yet”

The word “Yet” is very important in our growth process. It means that we are achieving growth, but our learning is not quite finished.

Earlier this week I read Mindset by Carol Dweck. This book challenged a lot of my prior thoughts and teaching methods. I have been teaching for a little over 4 years and have always researched the best practices to keep my students engaged and involved in their own academic journey. As a high school teacher this task becomes tough, because after each assignment I give I have students craving to know their results immediately. They want to stay in a certain percentile and achieve their desired GPA, which drives them to rush through assignments just for the “Grade”. They want that A or B so bad that they are not interested in the actual assignment and learning that is taking place. Dweck even says, , “First of all, we can praise wisely, not praising intelligence or talent. That has failed. Don’t do that anymore. But praising the process that kids engage in: their effort, their strategies, their focus, their perseverance, their improvement. This process praise creates kids who are hardy and resilient.”

The word “Yet” is life changing.

What is so Important about the word Yet?

By using the word “Yet”  and “Not Yet” we will begin changing their mindset. This will make the feedback process positive because students will be rewarded overtime for their strategies, preserverance and endeavors. Students will hopefully beging focusing on their individual growth, rather than just getting an “A”. 

  • The word “Yet” means that students are progressing and improving over time. It lets students know that being successful will take time and hardwork. It wont always be an over night process or immediate results.
  • Whenever a student does not get the “A” or “B’ that they are expecting the word ‘Yet” lets hem know that they are still growing and improving. “Yet” is a key tool in adopting a growth mindset.

As Educators we must change our Vocabulary in the Classroom, to achieve Growth.

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8 thoughts on “The Beauty of the Word “Yet”

  1. I agree the word YET enables students with the confidence to progress and grow over time. Children are like plants and they need nurturing adults to help them grow! Results take time and are not usually overnight, the word yet gives students that mindset!

    We must continue to empower the youth because Generation Z is the future! The talent and relentless nature of this generation makes me believe our future will be left in great hands! YET YET YEEEET!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. I like the concept of “yet” but it leave room for procrastination; I would prefer “I am” as it triggers accountability for one’s own actions. Life is a lesson in itself and full of helpful clues; appreciate the mentors you do find along the way.

      Liked by 1 person

  2. I love this particular concept of the word YET. Not only does it inspire hope but it gives our Scholars courage to keep trying when the learning process does not go their way. We know that great things happen over time and I am so excited that the world of education has begun to focus more on progress monitoring vs final scorings. The process matters and and is not usually pretty. YET emphasizes this important truth.

    Liked by 2 people

  3. Very insightful. The word yet has power and should be used more in the classroom.
    I have attended a Carol Dweck lecture and the word yet plays a key role in having a growth mindset.
    Excellent Article

    Like

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