American School of Milan Curiosity in Learning and Student Engagement

Empowering Curious Learners and Critical Thinkers

At the American School of Milan (ASM), we believe education is about more than acquiring knowledge—it’s about nurturing curiosity, promoting critical thinking, and inspiring creative expression. Our collaboration with Project Zero from Harvard University, a research initiative with over 58 years of impact, plays a central role in realizing this vision.

Since September 2021, ASM educators from Early Childhood through Grade 12 have asked a guiding question:

“How do Making Thinking Visible practices impact students’ dispositions to be curious learners and critical thinkers?”

What Is Making Thinking Visible?

Developed by Harvard’s Project Zero, Making Thinking Visible introduces a framework of thinking routines—tools that help students reflect, slow down, and express their thought processes. These routines empower students to make their thinking visible to themselves, their peers, and their teachers.

At ASM, our teachers collaboratively plan lessons using these strategies, observe student engagement, and adjust practices to build a stronger thinking culture. The result? Students who are more engaged, thoughtful, and curious about the world around them.

Visible Thinking in Action – Classroom Highlights

Italian – Wordless Book Conversations

Using Linee by Suzy Lee, teachers Ms.Vasta and Ms.Iaci introduced a silent written dialogue activity. Students responded to prompts in writing, leading to deeper engagement and a broader sharing of perspectives—making their inner thinking visible to the entire class.

Early Childhood – Growth in Expression and Empathy

Our youngest learners began with simple, personal reflections. Over time, their observations became more complex and empathetic. Their final project, a “Gingerbread Community,” featured kind, articulate characters who played meaningful roles—highlighting growth in both expression and emotional intelligence.

Grade 5 – Exploring the American Revolution

Grade 5 students developed their ability to ask meaningful questions, analyze multiple sources, and understand historical events from diverse viewpoints. These critical thinking routines helped them go beyond memorization to truly understand complex topics.

Why Making Thinking Visible Matters

These teaching strategies equip students with skills that extend far beyond the classroom. By making thinking visible, students build:

Independence in learning

Empathy and collaboration

Open-mindedness and reflection

Teacher Collaboration and Appreciation

ASM teachers across all divisions came together to share insights from their experiences with Project Zero. During Teacher Appreciation Week, this collaborative reflection highlighted the value of educators as learners and innovators. Their commitment ensures that every student at ASM benefits from a deeply engaging educational experience.

Looking Ahead

As we continue integrating Project Zero and Visible Thinking routines into our teaching practice, ASM remains committed to developing each student’s ability to think independently and creatively.

We’re proud of the progress and excited about what lies ahead. The learning is visible—and it’s just the beginning.

Making Thinking Visible at ASM