Expand the Mind This Summer with Visual Thinking Strategies

Explore. Analyze. Express.

This summer, help your child look beyond the surface and sharpen their critical thinking through our Excel Summer Program: Visual Thinking Strategies. Using artwork, imagery, and rich visual prompts, students will explore new perspectives and develop essential communication and reasoning skills—all in a dynamic and engaging setting.

🎨 Program Details

Dates: June 2 – August 3 (8 weeks)
Group Size: Max 6 students per class
Summer Special Tuition: $890 for 8 weeks
(*Regular tuition: $90/session)

Schedule & Format:

• Grades 3–4 (Level 1): Onsite | Mon/Wed, 11:00am – 12:30pm

• Grades 5–6 (Level 2): Online | Mon/Wed, 10:00am – 11:30am

• Grades 7–8 (Level 3): Online | Tue/Thur, 10:00am – 11:30am

🔗 Register here: Summer Program K-12 2025 Sign Up

What Are Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS)?

Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS) use artwork and imagery as tools to build observation, interpretation, and evidence-based reasoning skills. By analyzing visual content and discussing interpretations, students enhance their critical thinking, speaking, and writing skills in a natural, engaging way.

Why VTS? Educational Benefits Backed by Research

1. Boosts Critical Thinking and Reasoning

VTS encourages students to look closely, reason carefully, and explain their thinking using visual evidence. A study published in Art Education Journal found that students engaged in VTS demonstrated higher-order thinking skills across subject areas.

2. Improves Communication and Expression

During each session, students discuss artwork in a guided, inclusive format. They learn to listen, respect different perspectives, and express ideas with confidence.

🎥 Watch:
➤ “What Is VTS?” – Visual Thinking Strategies on YouTube

3. Strengthens Writing Through Observation

Using imagery as writing prompts enhances descriptive and analytical writing. According to The Reading Teacher, incorporating visual literacy in the classroom can significantly boost writing engagement and quality.

📖 Read more:
➤ The Reading Teacher: Visual Thinking to Inspire Writing

4. Supports Social-Emotional Development

By discussing complex and sometimes abstract images, students develop empathy, open-mindedness, and collaborative learning behaviors—skills that go far beyond the classroom.

🎥 Watch:
➤ “Why Use Visual Thinking in the Classroom?”

Parent Resources: Want to Learn More?

• “The Art of Noticing” by Rob Walker – TEDx Talk
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYdO-cD1G4Q

Ready to Join?

With only 6 students per group and options for both onsite and online participation, this is a unique opportunity to make the most of summer learning.

🔗 Secure your child’s spot today:
Register Now

Have questions? We’re happy to help you choose the right level or answer any concerns.