Day 7: Thinking

To get the most out of a text, we need to encourage our students to develop higher order thinking skills by practising the skills of 'reading between' and 'beyond the lines.' 

Today's learning offered many interesting and effective new ways of challenging the students to 'dig deeper' into texts, thereby extending their knowledge base and ability to gain more meaning from the world in which we live. We can do this in three ways of planning for learners to think beyond the literal - these are Modelling (critical analysis of text, questioning and 'thinking about thinking'), Response to Text Activities (including higher level 'create') and Extended Discussion. 

This slide spoke to me, as we can focus on deconstructing one part of a text in detail, to encourage deeper connections with the rest of the text. Building a 'character profile' for example, from literal and insinuated details in a text, allows new thinking and pathways in the brain to develop as well as more enjoyment from 'finding out more.'

To critically interpret and challenge learners in their thinking, we have to give them the opportunities to see and experience different perspectives and viewpoints of the same issue. The use of  Provocation and Extended Discussion allows them to 'take a stand' and think of ways to substantiate their viewpoint. This is deep and effective thinking.

Finally, the learners having the opportunity to 'respond to the text' as and author or creator. To be able to rewrite an ending or section of a text from  your new point of view, would be very empowering and valuable for the learner. 

I found today's learning both challenging and exciting. The sheer volume and pace of  the change over from one section to the next is disconcerting, especially when we don't get enough time to complete something we've started. I'm still synthesising much of the day's learning and will, I'm sure still be doing this for a few days to come!!