That’s why teachers are trying to help students develop their thinking skills instead of just learning a bunch a facts.

Parents can help teens learn to think more actively. You can:

• Encourage your child to ask questions about the world.

• Actively listen to your child’s conversations. Respond seriously to the questions she raises.

• When your child expresses feelings, ask why she feels that way.

• Ask your child to find facts to support her opinions.

• Use the TV as the basis for family discussions.

• Ask your child what questions teachers are raising in class. For example, a civics teacher might be “asking” about current global concerns.

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