In my years of working with students I have observed many changes in young people’s interests. These changes have become even more rapid since the emergence of the Internet which has given rise to increased opportunities for children to pursue and discover newer, more exciting interests.

Yet throughout the past thirty years some things have remained unchanged. One constant has been the interest-driven “topic” focus of most classrooms. While particular features of different topics might change, the topics themselves tend to remain. Students still enjoy researching, thinking, talking and writing about areas like mysteries, space, sports and a host of other frameworks through which a variety of skills can be taught.

The Creative Thinking Frameworks two-book set capitalizes on a range of these enduring themes to provide extension or support to teachers, particularly in the areas of creative thinking and creative writing. Teachers will find the teacher ideas and supporting student worksheets in this series will help them to “frame” each topic.

While taking this topical approach to thinking and writing, I have designed the activities to stimulate and challenge the most curious and imaginative of minds as well as to tease and prompt any that may need a little encouragement to really get going!

Sharing thoughts and writings with one another is an important part of these activities. In many cases students can add a personal touch by drawing on their own experiences.

Good thinking, good writing, good luck!

—Ron Shaw

Download the Table of Contents pages here.

Grades 4–6.

SPECIAL SET PRICE: If purchased individually, these books would cost $23.90.