Head Scratcher: How are we promoting critical and creative thinkers in our instruction?

As a high school math teacher this can be easier at times, and more difficult at times depending on the class and the course material. At times it is easy to promote creative when dealing with honors classing and higher math courses. But when working with remedial Algebra classes it can be more difficult to promote creativity and critical thinking because of high levels of apathy and prior knowledge. Sometimes the best way to promote success in those classes is through repetition and memeorization of steps to solve common test promblems.