At Rhame Avenue School, the new year began with an inspiring initiative designed to foster critical thinking, collaboration and goal-setting among students. Each class participated in a Thinking Map activity titled “New Year, New Goals, Best Self,” which encouraged students to reflect on their personal aspirations and explore the concept of their “best self.”

Ms. Beyrer and Mr. Cohen’s fourth-grade classes took this activity to the next level by partnering up for a collaborative exercise. Each student created an individual Thinking Map about their own best self. Then, in pairs consisting of one student from each class, they compared their maps and worked together to create a new map that highlighted their shared traits and goals. This engaging activity not only allowed students to get to know one another better but also provided a fun and meaningful way to practice teamwork and communication skills.

Thinking Maps, a set of eight visual patterns tied to specific cognitive processes, are a cornerstone of teaching and learning at Rhame Avenue School. Used across all grades and content areas, these maps help students build essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, comprehension and communication. By providing a shared visual “language for learning,” Thinking Maps create a consistent framework that supports academic success in every domain.

Rhame Avenue is fortunate to have a dedicated “Thinking Map Team” comprised of teachers and administrators who have received specialized training in this innovative approach. This team plays a vital role in supporting their colleagues by offering guidance in planning and designing classroom activities that incorporate Thinking Maps effectively.

The “New Year, New Goals, Best Self” activity exemplifies how Rhame Avenue School uses Thinking Maps to create engaging, thought-provoking experiences for students. By blending individual reflection with collaborative learning, the school continues to cultivate a supportive and dynamic learning environment that sets the stage for student success.

Click here to view the Rhame Avenue School kicks off the new year with a motivational Thinking Map activity slideshow.

Date Added: 1/23/2025