Boost Critical Thinking This Presidents Day with 10 Dynamic Thinking Routines

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In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Project Zero, part of the Harvard Graduate School of Education, started publishing innovative Thinking Routines designed to enhance and expand critical thinking skills for students of all ages. These powerful routines have evolved into ten categories, such as Core Thinking Routines and Global Thinking activities, promoting understanding from … read more »


Thinking Routines: A Universal Tool for Deeper Learning Across All Subjects

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Finding a resource that works for all grade levels and subjects to promote student learning is rare. Project Zero’s Thinking Routines Toolbox (reviewed here) is one of those unicorns. It offers strategies that enhance critical thinking skills in many ways that apply to real-world situations, using research-based strategies that scaffold and support student thinking. Why … read more »


The Stories We Miss: Uncovering the Lesser-Known Contributors to History

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Although teaching significant historical events is important, we sometimes overlook opportunities to recognize those who contribute to the story in lesser-known ways. Integrating these underrecognized persons into lessons offers opportunities for deeper learning and understanding of world events while increasing student engagement. In addition, learning about the lesser-known stories in history enables students to explore … read more »


Digging Deeper: Using Thinking Routines to Build Empathy During African-American History Month

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As we celebrate and observe African-American History Month in February, we must recognize the importance of making this topic relevant to students beyond just learning about famous African Americans and their contributions to this country’s history. Including specific activities that promote deeper thinking allows us to deepen understanding while building empathy for others. Developing empathy … read more »


Using Thinking Routines to Apply Historical Context Through Music

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In the 1930s, swing jazz emerged as a dominant form of music in the United States. The upbeat tempo of this music provided temporary relief from problems plaguing the country and the world—music and dance halls filled with people dancing to the big band sound. On January 16, 1938, Bennie Goodman performed the first jazz … read more »