It takes a special kind of bravery to step outside the "safe" zone and embrace the unknown, but that is exactly where the most profound learning happens! The Habit of Mind -- Taking Responsible Risks -- is about moving beyond the fear of being wrong and encouraging students to venture into the unknown. Growth happens at the edge of comfort, and our students need safe spaces to encounter uncertainty, make mistakes, and discover that they are more capable than they ever imagined. Crucially, this habit isn't about being reckless or impulsive; it's about learning to "count the cost." Students must develop the discernment to weigh potential outcomes and evaluate the risks before they leap. It's about building the courage to try something new, to raise a hand when only 70% sure, to share a vulnerable, rough draft, or to tackle a problem never seen before -- all while understanding the boundaries of safety and ethics. The resources in this collection--including Growth Mindset videos, low-stakes gaming platforms, anonymous polling tools, and stories of young entrepreneurs--are designed to help students practice this balance. From coding sandboxes and digital portfolios to collaborative mind-mapping and gamified escape rooms, these tools allow students to experiment and reflect on their results. Let's use these resources to create a classroom culture where "having a go" is celebrated just as much as getting it right, and where "counting the cost" becomes a vital part of every bold new adventure!

tag(s): thinking skills (137)