CATEGORY
ACTIVITY

I used to think... Now I think

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#Learning Protocols

Description

This learning protocol encourages students to reflect on their thinking about a topic, exploring how and why their ideas have changed, to consolidate new learning.

The 'I used to think... Now I think' thinking routine was developed by Project Zero, a research centre at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Ideal for lessons where students’ initial thoughts, opinions, or beliefs are likely to shift due to new information – such as after reading, watching films, listening to speakers, participating in discussions, or completing a unit.

"I used to think..."

Explain the activity’s purpose and guide students to recall their initial thoughts using the prompt “I used to think…”.

"Now I think..."

This is followed by observing and recording their current beliefs with the “Now, I think…” prompt.

Students are encouraged to reflect on what they think shifted their perspective – new ideas, new information, personal stories… etc.

Consolidate the learning...

In pairs or small groups students explain their learning journey.

Encourage them to talk about their understanding, their emotions, and the implications for how this may apply to their lives – choices, attitudes, behaviours, relationships… etc.