Explanation

One of the habits of mind I want my students to develop is reflection. I believe the ability to reflect regularly provides one with the ability to see one's life from a different perspective and, therefore, enables one to make changes for the better. Thus, as on opening to class once a week, I have one of these posts displayed on the board as students walk in, and they take the first few minutes of class to respond to the prompt. They then share with another student any thoughts they feel comfortable sharing, and we have a brief class discussion in relation to the prompt before moving into the lesson for the day. I believe this practice not only builds a habit of reflection in students, it also builds a stronger sense of community in our class.