Critical thinking, as we know, is the root of productivity for students. You may write an essay that is bland but does not go out of topic, or one that is poignant and creative. How do writers achieve this pinnacle of success? Why is it that new books appear constantly on the bestselling list?
The authors explore critical thinking and try to break out of preconceived moulds. Critical thinking is a way of challenging what is going on, whether it is in the form of written material or something that you are observing.
This is a valuable skill as it sharpens your thoughts and helps you to form valued judgements. With effective critical thinking, you will have increased self-respect and be able to handle any kind of project that is thrown at you.
With that said, here are several ways you can develop your critical thinking skills as a student:
Analyse Essays
This may sound banal, but it is a good step forward in developing your critical thinking skills. Why should you be reading and analysing essays?
Firstly, you will be reading some of the best essays written in the world. For developing ‘O’ level English writing, reading essays should be a priority. It could even be a journalistic essay written in the newspapers. The essay could be based on politics or social habits like the consumption of fast food.
Take a good look at the way the writer approaches the subject. Then, attempt to disagree with some of the points he is making. Find reasons to do so.
When you attempt to disagree, you change something within you. Your perception and awareness of what is going on will sharpen. You will start evaluating everything. Deep evaluation means that you will be forming new estimations and keep growing your critical skills and knowledge.
Watch ‘whodunnit’ Movies and Dissect Them
What are ‘whodunnit’ movies? These films are where a murder or grand theft is committed, and the investigators are trying to unravel the mystery of the culprit with systematic detective work.
As you get journey along with the investigation, you will learn to pick up clues and find details that will change your perspective and point you in the direction of the culprit.
‘Whodunnit’ movies are an easy and fun way to develop your critical thinking skills. Imagine watching a riveting murder mystery whereby you are stuck to the edge of your seat in anticipation of the ending. That is when you will start to predict several possible outcomes.
The ending may not be the same as your prediction, but you will have achieved something. Your critical thinking skills would have improved.
It is not just about predicting the ending, but you will be glued to the character development as well. Analysing the way a character’s arc is portrayed is also another way to enhance your critical thinking. You may examine the way he challenges norms, you may question his beliefs, you may criticise what he does. At the end film, you may even ‘feel’ something for his suffering as he journeys through to the end.
As the plot thickens, you will be noting flaws in the characters and assess them as they contribute to the thematic development. The main idea is to ask yourself, “what are they doing there?”
Keep asking the questions and break out of the mould the story is built on. Secondary English students will find this especially helpful. Criticise, evaluate, and challenge. That way, you will be really good at critical thinking skills.
Ask Open-ended Questions
The best way to develop critical thinking skills is to ask open-ended questions as often as possible, in any given situation. In fact, make it a part of your everyday life.
If you see something you do not understand or find unusual, ask for clarity. If you are not likely to get answers, look it up. Make it your quest to constantly be searching and asking. Acquire knowledge. It does not have to be on a grand scale.
Developing critical thinking skills helps you especially in your general paper and subjects where you have to present any subjective writing. It can be a really fun experience that will change the way you think.
For students who are preparing for their secondary English exams or ‘O’ level English, this will be a great way to improve!