Developing Critical Thinking

Step 1: Identify an argument

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.

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

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?

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

Developing Critical Thinking

Step 2: Evaluate the evidence

Is it relevant?

Is it recent?

Is it based on an assumption?

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?

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.”

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?

TaskFind 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