Cultures of Thinking
Pine Knob Elementary
What is Cultures of Thinking?
Cultures of Thinking are places in which a group’s collective, as well as individual, thinking is valued, visible, and actively promoted as part of the regular, day-to-day experience of all group members.
Key Goals of Cultures of Thinking
STUDENTS…
· gain a deeper understanding of content.
· are more motivated to learn.
· develop stronger thinking and learning abilities.
· develop 21st century skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and effective oral / written communication.
What does it look like in the classroom?
Why Cultures of Thinking?
- Teachers delivered the information
- Children memorized learning for a test
- There was a focus on the work over the learning
Now We Think...
- Teachers facilitate or coach the children through the learning process, retrieving information about their thinking and understanding to help differentiate the instruction
- Children actively participate in their learning by questioning, supporting their thinking with evidence, collaborating, and modeling
- Learning is the ultimate goal, not the work; understanding the purpose of learning and reflecting on ways to improve
Evidence of Practice
Reading Unit, CSI Thinking Routine
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How Can You Learn More About Pine Knob's Cultures of Thinking?
Pine Knob chose to implement the instructional initiative generated by Harvard University, Project Zero research team, known as Visible Thinking or Cultures of Thinking. Visit the following websites to learn more:
http://www.pz.harvard.eduOr contact Pine Knob principal, Jodi Yeloushan, at jlyeloushan@clarkston.k12.mi.us or 248-623-3900.