“Reflection allows students to make connections between experience and their own prior knowledge, and to make meaning from these connections. Yet, most kids don’t come into the classroom with a disciplined practice of reflection; it has to be taught to avoid superficial responses and discussions.

In my classroom, students deliberate alone to develop an internal voice meant for introspection, and they reflect in groups to develop an external voice to build confidence, develop empathy, and learn to cooperate. Group reflection also cultivates others skills among students —cooperation, flexibility, and collaboration– that they will take directly into the world they will inherit.”