This resource was adapted by the CARE Network. It can be used with all ages (including adults!) Additional sources linked below.
Sometimes students perceive a problem or prompt that requires a “correct answer” as a threat because there is a chance they could be wrong. Biologically, threats are sent to the amygdala, a small part of the brain responsible for processing emotions. “Amygdala hijack” is a term that describes how the threat of doing or saying the wrong thing leads to our amygdala taking over from our rational brain, inhibiting learning.
A notice and wonder routine stimulates students to be observant and curious by presenting them with a content-related prompt with nothing to solve or answer. It is a great way to spark student interest without risk of amygdala hijack.
10 minutes at the beginning of each class
Prompts connected to the lesson for the day. These could include a short video of a science phenomenon, a graph, an image, a headline, etc.
Seek student feedback to decide if you:
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