Developing Habits of Mind in Secondary Schools: An ASCD Action Tool Book

Building on work begun by Arthur Costa and Bena Kallick, Developing Habits of Mind in Secondary Schools translates the Habits of Mind philosophy of learning into practical classroom applications. Internationally acclaimed educators Karen Boyes and Graham Watts provide ideas, resources, examples, and strategies that address each Habit of Mind and scaffold learning across all content areas. The action tool s five major sections follow five dimensions of growth that help students to move from initial exploration through comprehensive internalization of the habits, using them as lifelong intelligent behaviors for effective communication, decision making, problem solving, and lifelong learning. This action tool is valuable not only for student development but also for school improvement planning and teacher professional growth. When the Habits of Mind philosophy permeates an entire school and the habits become a part of everyday life for all the school becomes a transformed organization and a powerful learning community. Developing Habits of Mind in Secondary Schools comprises more than 50 tools to help teachers and administrators foster the Habits of Mind among students, staff, and parents. All tools are available for download. Karen Boyes, an educator for nearly 20 years, is a leading authority on effective learning and teaching in New Zealand, a skillful professional development specialist, an author and international speaker, and the CEO of Spectrum Education. She has worked with teachers, principals, and students around the globe. Graham Watts has taught in schools from New Zealand to the United Kingdom. His practical ideas and expertise in the area of thinking skills are the hallmarks of his professional development workshops worldwide.Read More