What is Depth and Complexity?
Depth and Complexity is a set of thinking tools that empower students to explore content more deeply and from multiple perspectives. The system includes eleven visual icons, each representing a specific prompt or lens through which students can engage with ideas. These prompts include themes like Big Ideas, Patterns, Rules, Change Over Time, Multiple Perspectives, Ethics, and more. By integrating these into instruction, teachers invite students to think critically, creatively, and analytically—regardless of subject or grade level.
Why Use Depth and Complexity?
These tools are rooted in strategies developed for gifted learners, but their strength lies in their universal applicability. Whether students are accelerating beyond grade level or working to build foundational understanding, the icons give all learners an entry point to grapple with content in meaningful ways. The framework supports differentiation, scaffolding, and inquiry—all while aligning with state standards and curriculum goals.
Practical Benefits for Classrooms:
*Student Engagement: Students are naturally curious. The icons frame that curiosity in structured ways that spark meaningful conversations, questions, and connections.
*Higher-Order Thinking: The strategies align with Bloom’s Taxonomy, encouraging application, analysis, and synthesis of ideas across disciplines.
*Ease of Integration: Icons can be easily added to existing lessons. For example, while reading a text, students can explore the Rules governing a character’s society or identify Patterns across historical events in social studies.
*Consistency Across Grades: When used school-wide, the icons build a shared language for thinking and learning, creating continuity for students as they advance through grade levels.
