In the ever-evolving landscape of language education, the focus has shifted from rote memorization and repetition to developing meaningful communication, critical thinking, and deep understanding. One of the most effective and innovative tools to emerge from educational research and cognitive psychology is the “thinking routine.” Originally developed by Harvard’s Project Zero, thinking routines are simple, adaptable strategies designed to promote thoughtful engagement, reflection, and conceptual development in any learning context. When applied to language teaching and learning, these routines can radically transform classrooms into vibrant hubs of interaction, curiosity, and linguistic growth. This article explores how thinking routines can be embedded in language instruction, their pedagogical benefits, and how to implement them practically across all levels of language proficiency. What Are Thinking Routines? Thinking routines are structured patterns of thinking and questioning that...
David White is an Australian English teacher who has been living in Peru since 2001. In partnership with his wife Claudia, they are the owners of ¨English For You Language Institute´, an institute that specializes in the teaching of all levels of English from Basic (A1) to Advanced (C2) including international exam preparation. They are also the owners of ELT Educational Services and David is also the Headmaster of the American School, a respected bilingual ib school in Northern Peru.