As educators, we are all aware that by developing the children’s critical thinking skills, we are providing them with the best opportunities. A teacher can instil critical thinking skills in his pupils by encouraging them to apply their knowledge and question what they read. A teacher can teach critical thinking skills within any subject matter.
Rearranging the classroom if possible so all pupils can see each other and the teacher at the same time is the very first step. A circle of desks or clusters of larger tables encourages pupils to see themselves as active participants and removes the image of the teacher as simply giving all the information.
Encouraging pupils to participate in all aspects of class by posing questions that require thought come next. If pupils aren’t able to answer a question, have them meet in small groups to discuss the question. Then have groups share their answers with the class.
In addition, a teacher may post important critical thinking questions in the classroom to remind students of the questions they should ponder. You may also want to post steps for answering questions. For example, one such question might be, “Is that fact or opinion?” Remind pupils of the question by asking them follow up questions when they present answers in class or in written assignments.
It would also be nice to engage your pupils in critical reading by encouraging them to reflect on what they read. Using sources from the media that provide different viewpoints or descriptions of an event can help them understand that perspective influences the argument that the source presents. Discussing high quality children’s literature can involve younger students in critical reading.
Aside from these, make writing more than just a record of the pupil’s ideas. Instead, introduce them to free writing, an uninstructed and intuitive form of writing in which they can explore and create new ideas.
See? In some ways, we may be able to promote critical thinking. Little by little, step by step, one thing is for sure: We develop the kids to be the very best they can be!
By: Marissa C. Cruz | Teacher III | Orani North Elementary School | Orani, Bataan
