4 Ways to Encourage Critical Thinking in the Classroom

Children may be faced with challenges to solve problems and use their own independent judgement when given the chance to explore. The question is how do we best support and teach children as they are developing critical thinking skills?

That’s why we wanted to provide you with some ideas of how you could encourage critical thinking in your lessons.

By encouraging students to think outside the box, you’re helping them master their creative problem solving skills. Ask open-ended questions like “How would you solve this?” or “Let’s predict what could happen next?”

1.   Idea Generator Topic Tool

Looking for inspiration for some questions to ask your students? We’ve got a fab Topic Tool called Idea Generator, which generates a range of creative and critical thinking exercises. This Topic Tool can be found in the following regions:

  • England: Years 1 – 6 
  • Scotland: Early *** – Second ***
  • Wales: Years 1 – 6
  • N. Ireland: P2 – P7

2.   Story Starter Machine Topic Tool

We’ve got a fantastic Topic Tool to help! Try the Story Starter Machine, which gives a range of fiction writing ideas that can encourage students to think critically. This Topic Tool can be found in the following regions:

  • England: Years 1 – 6
  • Scotland: Early *** – Second ***
  • Wales: Years 1 – 6
  • N. Ireland: P2 – P6

3.   ThinkIts

ThinkIts are open ended tools designed to help students think critically – great for mastery too!

And lastly…

4.   Rewards

A great way to encourage critical thinking and motivate your students is with rewards. Celebrate their achievements and hard-work with something special.

We have an awesome Rewards Pack, which includes some fab certificates and colouring sheets. Simply log in to EducationCity to access the Staffroom>Topical & Printables>Printables.

Don’t have EducationCity in your school and would like to take a look at the content mentioned above? Start your free trial today by signing up, calling +44 (0)1572 725080 or emailing trials@EducationCity.com.