Communicate that we can all learn to think smarter. Provide students with lots of models of good thinking. Language creates meaning. Explanations clarify expectations. Directly introduce, describe, and explain the types of thinking that you are looking for.
Detection creates opportunity.
Encourage students to be alert to occasions to identify potential problems, to deliberate about a decision, to pursue a new line of inquiry, to consider an alternative cause, explanation, or reason. Create an environment that fosters students' natural inclinations to invest and pursue the thinking opportunities they detect. Feedback informs learning. Connections secure knowledge. Encourage students to connect new ideas and learning to things they know about inside or outside of school.