1. Developing Critical Thinking
Step 1: Identify an argument
In academic study, this means
establishing a line of thinking,
leading to a conclusion, with
reasons presented to persuade
others of your viewpoint.

2. Developing Critical Thinking
Step 1: Identify an argument
The majority of people do not
smoke.
Passive smoking causes ill-health.
Therefore, people should not be
allowed to smoke in public places.
Two reasons, followed by a conclusion

3. Developing Critical Thinking
Step 1: Identify an argument
Reason 1:
Reason 2:
!
Therefore, people should be free
to smoke wherever they like.
What reasons could be used?

4. Developing Critical Thinking
Step 1: Identify an argument
Tobacco is not an illegal substance.
We live in a social democracy.
!
Therefore, people should be free
to smoke wherever they like.
Two reasons, followed by a conclusion

5. Developing Critical Thinking
Step 2: Evaluate the evidence
Is it relevant?
Is it recent?
Is it based on an assumption?

6. Developing Critical Thinking
Step 2: Evaluate the evidence
Consider the following statement
Mid Cheshire College is an
“outstanding” college. Therefore,
teaching at the college must be
excellent.
Is this a reliable assumption? Why?

7. Developing Critical Thinking
Step 2: Evaluate the evidence
Could bias be a factor?
Universal Music CEO Lucian Grainge
on buying the EMI labels: “This is an
important step in preserving the
legacy of EMI Music.”

8. Developing Critical Thinking
What is the authors point?
Are the arguments presented
relevant and sufficient?
Is there evidence of bias?
Do the reasons lead logically to
the conclusion?

9. Task
Find texts that are relevant to
your proposal. Scan them,
looking for evidence of bias,
assumptions and inconclusive
evidence.
Add all texts to the
bibliography section of your
proposal