The Cultures of Thinking is a key feature of the school’s education philosophy, impacting every aspect of the academic life of a student. It takes on a “transformative education” approach and enhances academic achievement, supports holistic development by preparing them for future challenges. It also fosters a supportive, inclusive and innovative learning environment where students become thoughtful and responsible global citizens.
Since 2023, SMMIS has incorporated the Cultures of Thinking framework in its school curriculum, significantly for its students’ personal and academic growth. This gained momentum when Ms Alexandra (Ali) Cipriano, Head of Secondary School, and two other members of the academic team attended a training session run by Senior Research Associate at Harvard Project Zero, Ron Ritchhart. Being a Cultures of Thinking school means we prioritise creating an environment where thinking is valued, visible and actively promoted.
The Eight Cultural Forces outlined by the Cultures of Thinking framework (created by Senior Research Associate, Ron Ritchhart and the Project Zero team at the Harvard Graduate School of Education) include language, time, modelling, opportunities, routines, interactions, expectations, and environment. These forces collectively shape the culture of a learning community. Under the direction of Ms Ali Cipriano, our staff focuses on one of the Eight Cultural Forces each year. They also do a deep dive into how the Eight Cultural Forces can become part of the school experience for all of our students.
“Cultures of Thinking is an avenue for students to adopt both critical and reflective thinking. It prepares them for the challenges of the real world and provides a holistic academic journey, whereby they learn more than just the boundaries of classroom theories. The variety of learning spaces in SMMIS greets students with opportunities to study in a non-conventional setting. We have facilities such as classrooms, music room, makerspace rooms, swimming pool and many more to meet the wholesome needs of students.”, says Ali Cipriano.
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Language: The language used within the school community emphasises thinking, enquiry, and reflection. Teachers and students engage in discussions that encourage deeper understanding and critical thinking.
Time: SMMIS allocates time for students to engage in thinking routines and reflection. These routines allow students to develop their thinking skills and deepen their understanding of concepts.
Modelling: Teachers at SMMIS model thinking processes and behaviours, showing students how to think critically, ask questions, and make connections.
Opportunities: The school provides various opportunities for students to engage in thinking activities, both inside and outside the classroom. This might include projects, discussions, and collaborative activities.
Routines: Thinking routines are embedded into daily activities at SMMIS. These routines provide structure and guidance for students to engage in deep thinking and reflection consistently.
Interactions: The school fosters a culture of collaboration and inquiry where students interact with each other and with teachers in ways that promote thinking and learning.
Expectations: SMMIS sets high expectations for thinking and learning. Students are expected to engage actively in their learning process and to demonstrate their understanding through critical thinking and inquiry.
Environment: The physical and emotional environment at SMMIS is designed to support thinking and learning. Classrooms are set up to facilitate collaboration and exploration, and the school culture emphasises the importance of intellectual engagement.
By focusing on these cultural forces, SMMIS enables students to become enquirers who are curious, critical, and reflective thinkers. They develop the skills and dispositions necessary to inquire deeply into content, ask meaningful questions, and construct their understanding of the world around them..
Teacher CPD (Continuing Professional Development) on Cultures of Thinking at SMMIS is a dynamic and enriching experience designed to empower our educators with the knowledge and tools to cultivate a thinking-oriented classroom culture. Through workshops, collaborative discussions, and hands-on activities, teachers delve into the Eight Cultural Forces of Thinking and explore practical strategies for implementing them in their teaching practice.
They learn how to foster a language-rich environment, create opportunities for deep thinking, model effective thinking behaviours, and establish routines that promote inquiry and reflection
By engaging in CPD focused on Cultures of Thinking, teachers at SMMIS not only enhance their own instructional practices, but also contribute to building a vibrant learning community where students are encouraged to become curious, independent thinkers.
To embark on a refreshing and holistic educational journey for your child, Book a Tour with SMMIS.
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