How do we promote critical and creative thinking?

Some thoughts on how to teach children critical and creative thinking........

Firstly I believe you need to expect this type of thinking. Ask the students to defend their ideas and opinions. They need to justify and support with evidence how they have arrived at their conclusion and why they consider it correct. 
Secondly critical thinking needs to be clearly modelled. Show the students how to think critically and creatively. Demonstrate how to think about alternative answers and then arrive at the answer most likely considered correct. Learning activities should have clear expectations for students to develop critical and creative thought.
Thirdly, when a students thinks critically and creatively, this need to be acknowledged and rewarded. When good thinking occurs, draw attention to the student that generated it and encourage others to think in this way.

Now...this has got me thinking!!!!!

Australian environments from aerial perspective

Love this idea which is one of mine. Looking at Australian environments from an aerial perspective, students combine photographic images with mixed media in their collaborative artwork. I used decorated papers (with pastel and dye), straw, wool and pipe cleaners.