Elements of Critical Thinking

Definition:  Critical Thinking is the process of analyzing and evaluating thinking with the view of improving it.

 A. What do critical thinkers look like?

1. They raise important questions.
2. They identify and interpret central concepts.
3. They offer justifications for their conclusions.
4. They examine alternative assumptions,  implications and arguments with an open mind.
5. They communicate clearly and precisely

 B. Common standards of critical thinking:

1. Clarity
2. Accuracy
3. Completeness
4. Fairness
5. Relevance
6. Logic

C. Some elements of critical thinking:

1. Identifies points of view, perspectives
2. Identifies assumptions and considers their justification
3. Reasons based upon data, information and evidence.

D. Intellectual traits of a developed critical thinker:

1. Autonomy
2. Integrity
3. Humility
4. Fairmindedness
5. Courage
6. Perseverence

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