Critical Thinking
P21 defines critical thinking as...
Reason Effectively
Use various types of reasoning (inductive, deductive, etc.) as appropriate to the situation
Use Systems Thinking
Analyze how parts of a whole interact with each other to produce overall outcomes in complex systems
Make Judgments and Decisions
Effectively analyze and evaluate evidence, arguments, claims and beliefs
Analyze and evaluate major alternative points of view
Synthesize and make connections between information and arguments
Interpret information and draw conclusions based on the best analysis
Reflect critically on learning experiences and processes
Solve Problems
Solve different kinds of non-familiar problems in both conventional and innovative ways
Identify and ask significant questions that clarify various points of view and lead to better solutions
Critical Thinking Rubric The EdLeader21 critical thinking rubrics take the P21 definition and breaks it down into the following performance areas for grades 7/8 and grades 11/12 at levels 1-4:
Information & Discovery
Interpretation & Analysis
Reasoning
Problem Solving/Solution Finding
Constructing Arguments
Self Regulation/Reflection
As you reflect on your own curriculum...
Which of these skill areas do you work on with your students?
How do you measure their growth?
How do you assess their performance and provide feedback?
The EdLeader21 rubrics are not necessarily intended to be used in full for every project or experience. Read through the performance areas on the rubric, think about the wording and the scaffolding, find ways to incorporate some of these measures into your curriculum as they fit, find ways to modify existing experiences so that students can build these skills or design new experiences, help your students be successful beyond your classroom and this high school.