Example of how to build in positive attribution in math using the various steps in SIM

1. Model correct strategy application, stressing the strategy's value to learners.
2. Model positive attribution statements often, as the kind of self-talk that successful math students use (i.e. "This math problem has a lot of steps - I just need to do one at a time and complete as many steps as I can rather than giving up when I run into a road block.")
3. Model positive self-talk when discovering errors in your own work or create intentional errors to discuss (i.e. "I noticed that I reversed my 6 and 9 quite often during this math exercise - I need to make a note to double check this before I complete my math exercise in the future").
4. Allow learners to periodically reflect on class math tasks and reasons for their success or failure through the use of self-reports or journals.
5. Encourage learners to keep personal records of the positive attribution statements they make when working.
6. Encourage learners to set specific goals and use goal statements by doing the following:
   • Keeping a list of individual goals and reading them silently before beginning the day's assignment.
   • Self-checking test-taking goals, such as "Check all basic operations when finished," or "Read the directions twice."
   • Using positive attribution statements for test-taking, such as:
     • I have done problems like this before so I can think positively about these.
     • If I use my strategies carefully, I will probably be successful.
     • If this problem feels kind of hard, that means I need to try a little harder; then I'll probably be successful.
     • I'm usually successful when I work carefully and use the learning strategy correctly.
     • If I make a mistake, I can probably find it and correct it.