Knowledge works learning

Innovate

A Critical Thinking Program Exploring Science, Literature, Self & Society (Grades 8–9)

Innovate is a dynamic enrichment course for students in Grades 8 and 9 that blends scientific inquiry, literary exploration, and personal reflection to examine the world and our place in it. Students engage deeply with topics in science and technology, analyze powerful works of literature, and explore the connections between personal identity and broader social change.

Through hands-on and minds-on projects, learners tackle questions about innovation, ethics, belief systems, and human progress. Whether investigating the mysteries of space, debating the impact of artificial intelligence, or interpreting poetry that speaks to social justice, students sharpen their critical thinking and communication skills in real-world contexts.

Innovate moves beyond the standard curriculum to develop well-rounded, thoughtful students prepared to thrive in school—and to lead with insight, empathy, and purpose in the world beyond it.

  • Theme 1: Introduction to Social Sciences

    1. Social Science Foundations: Understand core concepts of identity, relationships, and communities through anthropology, sociology, and psychology.
    2. Influential Theorists: Examine foundational theorists such as Durkheim, Freud, Marx, and Weber, connecting their ideas to personal and societal contexts.
    3. Global Perspectives: Analyze current local and global events, exploring their implications using social science methodologies.
    4. Digital Citizenship and Online Safety: Gain proficiency in digital citizenship, emphasizing respectful, safe, and ethical online interactions.
    5. Media and Informational Literacy: Critically evaluate information sources, recognize bias, misinformation, and understand media’s role in shaping public perception.

  • Theme 2: Foundations of Language Arts

    • Literary Exploration: Engage with a diverse range of literary genres, including novels, short stories, poetry, drama, and nonfiction texts, with a focus on thematic analysis.
    • Creative and Expressive Writing: Develop writing techniques to express ideas creatively, employing descriptive, narrative, and persuasive styles effectively.
    • Poetry and Prose Analysis: Distinguish poetic forms and prose, explore common literary devices, and understand their emotional and thematic significance.
    • Narrative Construction: Learn the fundamentals of storytelling, including plot development, character dynamics, settings, and thematic resolutions.
    • Structured Essay Writing: Practice essay composition skills, including thesis development, coherent argumentation, evidence support, and formal essay structures.

  • Theme 3: Critical Thinking and Philosophy (Including Emotional, Social, and Cultural Intelligence)

    1. Philosophical Inquiry: Explore fundamental philosophical questions and logical reasoning, promoting curiosity and intellectual rigour.
    2. Ethics and Emotional Awareness: Address foundational ethical scenarios and develop emotional intelligence, emphasizing empathy, self-awareness, and responsible decision-making.
    3. Social Competence: Enhance interpersonal skills through effective communication, active listening, teamwork exercises, and collaborative problem-solving.
    4. Cultural Competence: Examine issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion, critically reflecting on cultural perspectives and biases.
    5. Applied Critical Thinking: Utilize critical thinking skills across emotional, social, and cultural contexts, fostering holistic understanding and nuanced perspectives.

  • Theme 4: Introduction to Science & Technology

    1. Exploring Innovations: Discover emerging technologies and their potential impacts on society and daily life.
    2. Ethical Implications: Discuss ethical considerations surrounding privacy, artificial intelligence, and technological advancements.
    3. Scientific Method and Inquiry: Study landmark scientific discoveries and understand the systematic process of inquiry and investigation.
    4. Entrepreneurial Thinking and Design: Introduce basic principles of technological innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaborative design thinking.
    5. Effective Science Communication: Develop communication skills to articulate scientific concepts clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.

  • Theme 5: Understanding Paradigms

    • Paradigm Foundations: Define and discuss the significance of scientific and social paradigms in shaping knowledge and societal norms.
    • Critical Skepticism: Investigate conspiracy theories to distinguish between healthy skepticism and misinformation and unsupported claims.
    • Advanced Source Evaluation: Master techniques for critically evaluating the credibility and reliability of information sources.
    • Belief Systems: Analyze the psychological and cultural influences on individual and collective belief formation.
    • Paradigm Shifts in Science: Examine historical scientific revolutions, such as heliocentrism, evolution, and quantum physics, understanding their transformative impacts.

  • Theme 6: Basics of Physics & Cosmology

    • Fundamental Physics: Explore basic physics principles, including motion, energy transformations, forces, and fundamental mechanics.
    • Astronomical Discoveries: Investigate contemporary astronomical discoveries and their implications for our understanding of the universe.
    • Physics Challenges: Discuss current mysteries in physics, emphasizing the relationship between theoretical propositions and experimental verification.
    • Space Exploration: Learn about historical advancements and future possibilities in space travel and exploration.
    • Cosmological Reflection: Engage in philosophical discussions about cosmology, exploring profound questions about existence, humanity’s role, and the universe’s mysteries.