Step 1 – Valuing Habits of Mind for yourself:
For the Habits of Mind to have meaning for students they have to have meaning for teachers. Exploring and unpacking what is meant by each of the sixteen habits means to you and your colleagues is a great place to begin. Once teachers see the value of the Habits, it is easier and more authentic to help our students see their value.
Eg: Persisting:
When have you had to persist in your professional work?
How do you overcome obstacles, barriers or demanding tasks in your work?
What do you do when Plan A hasn’t worked?
How do you feel when you have to persist at a task that doesn’t inspire you?
What behaviours might others see in you when you are persisting in your work?
Step 2 – Direct instruction in Habits of Mind
Teach the students about each of the Habits of Mind in turn. Allow them the opportunity to develop their own understandings and own examples to help them value the habits. Give experiential learning to immerse the students in the practice of the habits.