Managing Impulsivity Habits of Mind
What does it mean to be impulsive?
Someone who is impulsive is acting before thinking through their actions. To avoid being impulsive you should stop, think, predict, THEN act. Impulsive people don’t usually think about the consequences of their actions.
When you manage your impulsivity, you… o Take your time -- don’t rush! o Take time to read the recipe or directions. o Prepare equipment, collect ingredients, gather materials. o Read the recipe or directions again from the beginning. o Focus on the task at hand. o THEN get started… Source: Costa A.L. and Kallick B. (2009) Habits of Mind Across the Curriculum: Practical and Creative Strategies for Teachers. Alexandria, VA: ASCD. Pages 13, 78.
Did the birds manage their impulsivity?
As we watch this video, identify which character is being impulsive, as well as the consequences of those impulses. How might this have turned out differently if they managed their impulsivity?
Did the birds manage their impulsivity?
o The small birds acted on impulse out of anger. o They did not think through the consequences of their actions. o The birds who joined in did not try “wait time” to evaluate whether this was a good choice. o They didn’t think before they acted!
Let’s talk: Why is it important to manage your impulsivity?