Higher Level Thinking

Reading Notebook Entry has 3 parts.
1. Thought about the text (usually tied to a strategy or standard but not always)
2. Evidence from the test to support your thinking
3. Higher level thinking


So, how do you get to the higher level thinking. It is hard work and takes a lot of practice!!!!  We have to remember we are trying to get students to synthesize and put their thinking or understanding out into the world about their ideas and that is a hefty task.  We stand on the work of Lucy Calkins.  This chart can be found in her writing units-specifically Grade 4: Boxes and Bullets.  Here in Parkway every 4th grade teacher has this book. Page 38.

The idea came "that students could talk back to their own ideas" as Lucy States. Our 3-5 teachers tried it and now it is part of how students write on a daily basis.  They elaborate on tests and when supporting their thinking. Obviously, this is more sophisticated in 5th grade than 3rd.  The students thought will blow you away!!!!!  As a teacher, you have to practice this yourself.  You will see it is rigorous work but with some practice it raises the level of thinking a bit.  At least, that is what we have found.

SO, it becomes a formula so to speak.  Thought + evidence + Higher Level Thinking.  Students then apply this to their thinking daily.  Whether it is theme or drawing conclusions....they now have a structure to build their thoughts.