Critical thinking is a fundamental part in making a choice. It occurs when one is choosing the correct answer on a multiple choice test, making a major life decision, or deciding tomorrow’s events. When a child is taught to think critically, he is less likely to make poor choices that could be harmful to himself or others. This child will develop the ability to predict the possible outcomes of his actions. In order to teach a child to think critically, one does not give him facts to memorize but rather trains him to ask question, seek alternative answers, try hypotheses, and consider other viewpoints. Critical thinking helps the child to formulate the right questions, access possible answers, judge the credibility of information and sources, and make solid judgments based on evidence. Critical thinking is the opposite of quick, rash decision. Instead it involves being open-minded and being respectful to those with whom he disagrees.  As teachers and parents, we should include critical thinking skills into all of the components of curriculum.

Follow up:

Consider these aspects when placing critical curriculum in your program:
1.    In order to think critically, ask the students to define the issue or question precisely. Ask – What is the question exactly about? Gather information from reliable sources that are biased. Examine the logic of the evidence. Are all parts believable?

2.    Try these ideas:
a.    Ask and observe. Use open-ended questions (Why do you that happened?)
b.    Ask “How do you know that? This allows the child to become aware of their own reasoning ability. If the answer is faulty, keep asking question until the correct answer is reached.
c.    Discuss good and bad reasons. A young child is easily influenced by ads on tv and billboards. He is also influenced by his friends on the playground. As he matures, he will be influenced by magazine, newspapers, and older people he admires. Younger children are often influenced by the fear of bullies who may demand their belonging. Help the youngster to think through actions. Would you give your money to someone else because you are afraid? What would be some plans of action that you could do in order not to be afraid? Point out what makes a good reason and what makes a bad reason for actions.
d.    Teach the student that information does not mean the same thing as truth. A child in middle school faces more challenges in the class room. He will receive more complex assignments.  Be sure that he understands that information is just information, but he must put the information together in order to form knowledge. When doing research, teach that one source is not sufficient but that each source will differ in content and information. As a person who is doing research, he is not to judge or become emotional but to state the evidence needed.
e.    Create the knowledge that both sides of an issue should be respected even though he may not agree with one side. Instead, teach him that’s it’s alright to have his own opinion, but that it’s not alright for him to put down the other side. Instead show respect for people whose ideas differ from his own. Then the student is not only thinking critically but also behaving civilly.