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Thinking Toolbox : Thinker's Keys

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First developed by Tony Ryan Thinker's Keys are a set of twenty different activities designed to engage and motivate learners in a range of thinking tasks.

A range of question or task starters are presented as keys to unlocking the analytical, critical and creative thinking abilities of learners.

Keys include:

• The Reverse - places words such as cannot, never and would not in sentences eg List thing you would never see in Australia.

• The What if - ask any what if question and record thinking in graphic organiser
• The Alphabet - compile a list of words from A - Z which have relevance to a given topic or category
• The BAR - acronym for B=bigger A=add R=remove or replace, can be used for design related activities
• The Construction - a problem solving task that requires the creative use of limited quantities
• The Disadvantages - make a list of disadvantages for a specific object or activity
• Different Uses - use the imagination to make a list of different uses for everyday objects
• The Combination - list the attributes of two unmatched objects then combine their attributes to create a newer or better product
• The Ridiculous - make a ridiculous statement that would be virtually impossible to implement and then attempt to substantiate it.

Download a A4 key template

Reference: Tony Ryan 'Thinker's Keys for Kids', 1990 (out of print)

NTCF Outcome Links:

• EsseNTial Learnings - In 1, In 5, Cr 1, Cr 2, Cr 3

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Larapinta Primary School, 2008