Team ThinkUp! introduces the 9 Traits of Critical Thinking™ through the lenses of grade-appropriate core content in a colorful, comic-book style. Ideas for cross-curricular activities support teachers as they extend the 9 traits beyond the Student Activity Book and into the core curriculum.

Need implementation inspiration? Look no further!

• Integrate the 9 Traits of Critical Thinking into the instruction of any standard, using any order or combination of traits. We've even got standard correlation charts!
• Implement the target trait unit and its components using a flexible delivery method.
• Present the target trait as a vocabulary term by using the Introductory Activity suggestions.
• Inform students they will learn about nine different traits. Feel free to add ideas to explore and develop characteristics of the target trait.
• Introduce the target trait for each unit. The Teacher Guide features the trait statement, the actions students exhibit when applying the trait, and questioning prompts and strategies to facilitate trait development throughout the year.
• Use Before Reading and After Reading ideas to actively engage students in the text.
• Introduce Explore the Trait (after reading the text) to promote comprehension and probe for a deeper understanding of the trait represented. Pose additional prompts based on student responses.
• Use the Apply the Trait (ELA) component to build and extend oral language, listening, reading, and/or writing skills.
• Implement Apply the Trait (Science) to facilitate thinking as students form predictions, support reasoning, and make decisions while discovering science content.
• Utilize Apply the Trait (Math) to examine and discuss connections through mathematics as part of the learning experience.
• Implement Check My Thinking and Self-Assessment to encourage students to apply the trait in new and different situations, while determining their competency in exhibiting the trait.
• Use the Concluding Activity suggestions to promote, develop, and enhance thinking and understanding of the nine traits. This activity brings closure to the Student Activity Book.
• Use your creativity to plan reinforcement opportunities or utilize suggestions provided in Strengthen the Trait, Revisit the Trait, and Across the Curriculum components, remembering to build a common thinking language that is reinforced daily.
• Create awareness about the traits by placing the poster in a prominent position on the classroom wall.
• Elaborate upon the language stated on the trait poster, when necessary, to develop meaning and understanding for all students.

How will you use Team ThinkUp! in your classroom? Leave a comment below! 

Click the link below to download this guide as a PDF.