Session 2 critical thinking 2015

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, all
teaching at the college must be
excellent.
Is this a reliable assumption? Why?

7. 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?

8. Task
Find resources online that are
relevant to your proposal. Read
through them, looking for
evidence of bias, assumptions and
inconclusive evidence.
Add all resources to the
bibliography section of your
proposal