Thinking Critically

Beginning in kindergarten and continuing through high school, we cultivate Habits of Mind. Observing - the gathering of information and Wondering what it means; Connecting - joining learning together, such that studies in arts, science, and social sciences are interwoven in every classroom… enabling the development of Reasoning skills, the Interpreting of data, and Innovating in asking questions and suggesting answers. For the inquiring mind, our approach provides a user-friendly guide for exploring and understanding new areas of study and life outside the classroom.

Every classroom and every hallway of the schools of The Étude Group resonates with our Culture of Thinking, our continuing celebration of the beauty and power of human thought. By the time students reach High School, Thinking Routines have become second nature. Developed by Harvard’s Project Zero researchers, these mini-strategies give students structure to analyze information, reinterpret it, and continue to ask questions. Students assimilate the cultural influences and processes around them into their self-selected, self-directed study projects - and into their preparations for college.

Throughout the schools of  The Étude Group, each trimester ends with a review of recent studies, made by every student to their parents and Advisor.  In High School, a Presentation of Learning is an hour-long demonstration of academic and personal growth, focused, reasoned, and heartfelt. Students put forward a claim or hypothesis and support it with detailed “artifacts” of their learning from each class they have been taking. Typically they will make an oral presentation with video, slide show or other illustration. Following review of work completed, students take the lead in setting goals and schedule for the trimester to come, with an increasing emphasis on the college application process. Frank, supportive three-way conversation guides wise choices and good outcomes.