When we are thinking out loud, we’re better able to understand the processes by which our mind takes us to arrive at a conclusion. For today’s free Friday, here’s an infographic with a few tips for getting your students to make their thinking more tangible.
Thinking Sense. Ways to make thinking tangible through the senses:
1. Doodle Away.
Some of the smartest peeps in the history of the world were doodlers. DiVinci. Einstein. Nash. Let your students get their ideas out on paper any way they can. Innovation happens when it’s given some space to roam.
2. Turn Up the Music.
Engage your students in some active listening to link into their critical thinking systems. By having them listen for and describe a certain musical element (volume, sound color (timbre), tempo, etc) they begin to make connections that transition their thinking into meaning.
3. The Magic of Movement.
When students are able to move their bodies to express their thoughts, they are forced to become more intentional in their decision-making process. Start with short, 2-minute movement opportunities and move into dedicated dance segments. Movement can eliminate the confines of language barriers and fear of mistakes.
4. Dramatic Journeys.
Using drama is so much more than acting out a scene. It’s character development and understanding vocal tone, using the body as an instrument and critical scene analysis. Work through the dramatic process and provide students with opportunities to have their spirit meet their story.
