As we began reading the story, I found my boys really connecting with the protagonist. To extend their thinking and assist them in making deeper connections, the boys completed “The 4C’s”, a Harvard thinking routine. In this activity, the boys make connections to the text, challenge the author and story, analyze concepts, and interpret changes the text recommends. We started with independent thinking, transitioned into small group discussions, and concluded the activity with a whole group discussion. In conjunction with the discussions, the students completed the chart on the wall! Sorry moms, I know I just challenged what you’ve been working on for twelve years!