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Learner Profile: Thinker

We use critical and creative thinking skills to analyse and take responsible action on complex problems. We exercise initiative in making reasoned, ethical decisions.

Books in the Library - Thinker

BrainPop - Brain

Discussion Questions

Discussion questions

  • Describe the different ways the characters were effective thinkers and problem-solvers
  • Which character was the more creative thinker? Why?
  • How did [character] solve the problem? What strategies did they use?
  • Why do you think [character] was an effective problem solver?
  • Why did [character’s] idea work in the end? Did they think about how their decisions would affect the outcome and other characters?
  • Did [character] make good decisions? Is there anything they could have done differently?
  • Did [character] work independently to solve the problem or did they work collaboratively? Was this the best strategy?
  • Does a thinker have to be brave, risk-taker….?
  • Did their decision making surprise you? Were they creative in their thinking?
  • How did [character’s] way of thinking impact the outcome of the story?
  • How could the [character] have done things differently?

You can also ask open-ended questions to evaluate your students critical and creative thinking. Here are a few examples:

  • Why do you think that? Explain your thoughts.
  • Describe how you came to that answer/conclusion?
  • Tell me more about your idea/results/opinion. 
  • How could you improve on your ideas? Could you use different methods or strategies?
  • Are there any other ways to show your idea/results/opinion?

(Taken from https://childrenslibrarylady.com/thinkers-resources/)

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Tunnel

How a Harvard Professor Makes Transforming Toys & Designs | WIRED

How Do We Think?

BrainPop - Critical Reasoning