Reading is a fundamental skill, and what if you could take it to the next level? Depth & Complexity icons are a powerful tool to ignite higher-level thinking and transform how students engage with texts. Here’s how you can use these icons to enhance reading comprehension and critical thinking in your classroom for ALL students. (Not just for gifted students!)
What Are Depth & Complexity Icons?
If you’re new to Depth & Complexity, these visual prompts represent different ways to think critically about a topic. Each icon encourages students to explore a unique perspective, such as identifying details, examining patterns, or analyzing multiple perspectives. To get started, download this free Icon Reference Sheet, which you can share with your students.
I like to have these Prompt Icons boldly displayed on the wall as posters, and smaller versions to use on Thinking Frames and anchor charts.
How to Use Icons with Reading
One of the most effective ways to use Depth & Complexity icons is through annotation. Here’s a simple method to try:
Teach or Review Icon Meanings: For example, the "flower" icon stands for "Details." As students read, have them draw this icon every time they encounter an important detail in the text. I like to provide the Icon Reference Sheet to each student for quick reference. Model how to draw the icons quickly on the text (if it is a material that can be written on) or use post-its to add the icons as they read.
Synthesize Information: Once they’ve identified key details, students can group them together to determine the "Big Idea," represented by the "pillars" icon. This process helps them see how individual elements contribute to the larger message or theme.
These Thinking Prompt Cards have questions for each of the prompt icons, and they include two differentiated sets. Set A has low-level questions that can be used as a starting point, or for differentiation and scaffolding. With any learner, the ultimate goal is to get them to the Set B level of questioning. This is where they will really dive deeper into their learning, and go beyond surface level knowledge. (Think Blooms Taxonomy)
Create Thinking Frames: Use a four-quadrant frame to focus on four specific icons. For example, you might choose "Details," "Patterns," "Unanswered Questions," and "Ethics." Create a large frame on the whiteboard for group work or provide smaller, individual frames for students to use during independent reading. Here are more details about setting up an Interactive Thinking Frame.
In the beginning, the teacher will need to model the use of Depth & Complexity prompt icons, but gradually the students will gain confidence with them and be able to use them independently. It's so rewarding to see students start to come up with these connections on their own, and they take pride in this success as well!
11 Ways Students Can Use Depth & Complexity Prompts with Reading
Annotate Important Details: Mark the text with the "Details" icon to track significant information.
Identify Patterns: Use the "Patterns" icon to note recurring ideas or themes in the story.
Explore Unanswered Questions: Apply the "Unanswered Questions" icon to identify gaps or ambiguities in the text.
Analyze Ethical Issues: Use the "Ethics" icon to consider moral dilemmas presented in the reading.
Examine Perspectives: Utilize the "Multiple Perspectives" icon to compare different characters’ viewpoints.
Track Changes Over Time: Use the "Changes Over Time" icon to observe how characters or settings evolve.
Relate to Big Ideas: Connect specific details to overarching themes using the "Big Idea" icon.
Investigate Rules: Apply the "Rules" icon to identify systems or structures within the text.
Note Language of the Discipline: Use this icon to highlight subject-specific vocabulary or terminology.
Identify Trends: Track shifts in tone, style, or plot direction using the "Trends" icon.
Apply Across Disciplines: Use the "Across Disciplines" icon to connect themes or ideas in the reading to other subjects such as math, science, or social studies. For example, while reading a historical text, students might explore how the scientific discoveries of the time influenced societal changes
Benefits of Depth & Complexity Annotations
Annotating with Depth & Complexity icons not only deepens understanding but also promotes active reading. Students become more engaged as they:
Look for connections between details and overarching ideas.
Develop critical thinking skills by exploring complex questions.
Participate in rich discussions that extend their learning.
Amplify Learning with Discussions and Writing
The magic doesn’t stop at annotations! Encourage students to share their findings in small groups or class discussions. This collaborative dialogue helps refine their ideas and introduces them to new perspectives. You can also extend the activity by having students write reflections or essays using their annotated insights.
Ready to try it?
Depth & Complexity icons are a game-changer for reading instruction. By integrating these tools, you’ll help students move beyond surface-level comprehension and develop deeper, more meaningful connections with the text. Whether through annotations, discussions, or writing, the possibilities are endless—and the results will amaze you!
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