THINKING LIKE LEONARDO

From pre-school to grade 8 teachers of the Leonardo Da Vinci Academy employ "Seven Da Vincian Principles " (stated below) to help students explore their own creativity and intelligence. Children are encouraged to develop their full potential using strategies inspired by Leonardo Da Vinci to promote: problem solving, creative thinking, self-expression, an appreciation of the world, goal setting, and balancing body and mind.

In his book "How To Think Like Leonardo" world-renowned author Michael J. Gelb lays the framework for following Leonardo's example. In it Gelb describes the Seven Da Vincian Principles and lays a foundation for life long learning. Gelb's work is adopted by the Academy's staff as a framework for living and learning. It serves as an inspiration and a common fabric to guide administrators, teachers, parents, and students toward the Academy's stated Mission.

The Seven Da Vincian Principles are:

• Curiosità
  An insatiably curious approach to life and an unrelenting quest for continuous learning.
• Dimostrazione
  A commitment to test knowledge through experience, persistence, and a willingness to learn from mistakes.
• Sensazione
  The continual refinement of the senses, especially sight, as the means to enliven experience.
• Sfumato ("Going up in Smoke")
  A willingness to embrace ambiguity, paradox, and uncertainty.
• Arte/Scienza
  The development of the balance between art, logic, and imagination. ("Whole-brain" thinking.)
• Corporalità
  The cultivation of grace, ambidexterity, fitness, and poise. Promoting body awareness.
• Connessione
  A recognition of and appreciation for the interconnectedness of all things and phenomena. ("Systems thinking".)

"The degree to which any useful philosophy of education is successfully implemented is readily measured - one need only observe the children. Children that have been encouraged to "Think Like Leonardo" will be freed from "limitation" thinking, will have a healthy self-esteem, and a heightened respect for the world. They will be joyful and autonomous participants in their own learning and self-discovery ."

Sal Ritacca, Principal
Leonardo Da Vinci Academy
of Arts & Sciences

At all levels and across the curriculum, students at LDVA are encouraged to:

• experience with all their senses
• learn from their mistakes
• be open minded
• ask meaningful questions
• balance their creative and logical sides
• cultivate & appreciate their physical nature
• and develop an appreciation for their connection with the universe

The ultimate goal is to encourage a love of learning, encourage independent thinking skills, and help students realize their whole potential.