Recently, the fourth-grade class has been exploring an important idea: struggle is part of learning. Together, they have been reflecting on the tools that help them persevere through challenges, grow comfortable making mistakes, and have an open mindset.
To launch this work, students were introduced to research studies showing that when learners engage with challenging problems, their brains form new neural pathways that actually make them smarter. In other words, mistakes are not setbacks—they are opportunities for growth. With this perspective, the fourth graders are approaching all areas of learning—math, reading, writing, science, social studies, and project-based units—with a spirit of risk-taking, resilience, and perseverance.
Building a Model of the Earth
One project where students put this mindset into practice was their Earth model study. They began by learning about the layers of the Earth, then moved on to studying the Earth’s surface and the seven continents. To accurately place the continents, they used the prime meridian and the equator as guides and practiced understanding how longitude and latitude form a coordinate system for locating places on Earth.
The process required many rounds of practice. Students free-drew the continents several times before transferring them onto their final models. While the task was challenging, it provided meaningful opportunities to practice perseverance and open mindset thinking in a real and tangible way. The final models reflect both effort and growth, and the class celebrated the learning journey just as much as the finished products.
As the year continues, the fourth graders will keep building not only their academic skills, but also their confidence, resilience, and ability to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
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