Developing Critical Thinking in English Language Arts (ELA)
Critical thinking is an essential skill for academic success, and it’s particularly important in the world of ELA. However, the importance of critical thinking goes far beyond English class. Being able to read and write critically is a powerful tool to help students navigate their lives in high school and beyond. They will be equipped to make well-informed decisions, identify and evaluate arguments, and recognize assumptions and biases. Critical thinking skills will help students navigate a world of increasing misinformation, and will give them a competent and compelling voice with which to share their ideas.
As an educator, you can develop critical thinking in many ways through your ELA coursework, particularly through critical reading and writing. Critical reading is a thoughtful and analytical approach to evaluating written material. It involves actively analyzing and evaluating the text to help the reader gain a deeper understanding of the material and develop an informed opinion. Critical thinking is also an essential component of effective essay writing and written communication, allowing individuals to produce well-reasoned, well-supported, and convincing arguments.
Students’ critical thinking skills can be honed in ELA through activities like practicing critical reading strategies, learning how to identify trustworthy sources, and communicating findings through essays or Capstone Projects. Students can also explore THINKING PRO interactive learning videos to expand critical thinking skills with a targeted and comprehensive gamified system. Try THINKING PRO today, and join our students who feel more empowered in decision-making, more mindful with their news engagement, and more connected to their local community!
Click here to read the full Thinking Habitats ' blog post exploring the development of critical thinking in ELA.