When it comes to classroom magic, there’s a sweet spot where structure meets exploration, and as you probably know, that is the space from which I love to teach.
The incredible Daina at Mondays Made Easy turned me onto Project Zero at Harvard, and now I have so many thinking routines to incorporate into my language arts classroom. (Seriously, check it out!)
This blog post is all about the Compass Points thinking routine. It’s a simple, powerful tool for helping students map their thoughts and emotions, and spoiler alert—it’s a total gamechanger for sparking thoughtful discussions and deep reflection.
So, what exactly is Compass Points? Imagine giving students a compass to navigate their ideas, with four cardinal directions guiding the way: N (Need to Know), S (Stance or Suggestions), E (Excited), and W (Worrisome). Each point serves as a prompt, nudging students to explore different dimensions of a topic, decision, or project.
Here’s how you can take this gem into your classroom:
Step 1: Set the Stage
Pick a dynamic topic or focus on a project your students are about to begin. Whether it’s a big creative project, a group collaboration, or even a classroom redesign, the Compass Points routine fits perfectly.
Step 2: Orient the Compass
Explain the four points to your students:
N (Need to Know): What more do you need to know or find out?
S (Stance/Suggestions): What is your current stance, or what suggestions do you have moving forward?
E (Excited): What excites you about this idea or plan?
W (Worrisome): What worries or concerns do you have?
Hand out a visual compass, write the prompts on the board, or use sticky notes to add a pop of color!
Step 3: Let the Exploration Begin
Give students time to reflect individually, jotting down their thoughts for each direction. Then, the magic happens in groups or as a whole class. As students share their “compass points,” you’ll watch a multitude of perspectives unfold.
Why It Works
It validates emotions: Students can express excitement and worries in the same breath.
It emphasizes inquiry: Need to Know taps into their curiosity and drives meaningful research.
It promotes action: Stance and Suggestions invite agency, asking students to step up as problem-solvers.
It builds connection: Knowing what motivates, worries, and excites your students will help YOU become. a better teacher for each learner.
Whimsy Meets Rigor
What I adore about Compass Points is how it combines reflection and forward momentum. It’s not just about talking—it’s about doing. And honestly? There’s something downright whimsical about watching students chart their way through new challenges with clarity and confidence.
So, next time you’re kicking off a new unit, grab your compass and give this routine a try. Your students will thank you—and you’ll find yourself navigating new teaching adventures with a clear direction in mind!
If you want the ready-to-go handout and a page of ideas on how you can use this in your classroom, you can grab it via this link!
Here’s to the journey!
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