Introduction to Critical Thinking

Critical thinking begins with the careful examination of truth claims. When information is presented as factual, no matter who or what the source, the hearer initiates a process of examining the data on which the claim is based. The biases of the source of the data (media, government, professions, etc.) are identified. The claims are compared with other relevant sources of data (press, journals, monographs, expert informants). These multiple sources are compared with the information, and conclusions reached as to the veracity of the claim.

In this course, seventh and eighth-grade students will interview suspects in an art theft. To assess the veracity of the claims of the suspects, students will compare information collected in the interviews with relevant sources. Students will learn to use college library resources, museum sources, and professional experts to solve the case. They will work in small groups, developing a case against one of the suspects. Finally, they will present their argument in a courtroom setting, including a judge and jury.

Each team of students will receive an evaluation of their work, including interviews, library research, analysis of data, and presentation of their case.