Critical Thinking Practices
Critical thinking is necessary for students to articulate their existing understanding of the world around them, investigate new environments, ideas, or concepts, and describe and solve meaningful problems through mathematics and engineering design. Critical thinking practices that serve as the foundations of mathematics, science, and design include--
- Asking questions and defining problems.
- Developing and using models.
- Planning and carrying out investigations.
- Analyzing and interpreting data.
- Using mathematics and computational thinking.
- Constructing explanations and designing solutions.
- Engaging in argument from evidence.
- Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information.
Science Knowledge Has Limitations
Good critical thinkers are always aware that our scientific knowledge has limitations, and are willing to admit what they are. "I don't know," is one of the great scientific answers--admitting present ignorance clears the stage for future investigation and growth.