Book excerpt: Today’s students bring with them to the classroom a wide variety of understandings and ways of knowing. Sharing this richness of understanding, as well as students’ unique ways of looking at challenges, solving problems, and interpreting the world adds an incredible depth and meaning to all types of classroom learning. This thoughtful guide offers authentic, meaningful and purposeful activities that will lead students to share their thinking, and to support and mentor each other emotionally, socially, and academically. It explores numerous ways to create opportunities for shared learning, mentoring partnerships, and expanding student horizons.