Activity Introduction
Quick summary:
Critical thinking is at the core of most intellectual activity. In this lesson, students learn to recognise or develop an argument, use evidence in support of that argument, draw reasoned conclusions, and use information to solve problems, utilising critical thinking.
In this activity, students will work together as a team and engage their critical thinking and empathy skills by forming an argument for either, inviting a select amount of people to a birthday party (primary) or to be included in a nuclear fallout shelter (secondary).
They must assess each applicant, with each bringing some positive characteristics, coupled with some troubling behaviours, therein challenging students to critically evaluate their merits and argue logically for their inclusion.
Learning intentions:
- Students will employ critical thinking skills to evaluate a situation
- Students will use evidence to make judgements
- Students will work collaboratively
21st century skills:
Australian Curriculum Mapping
General capabilities: Critical and Creative Thinking.
This lesson is part of the wider unit of work How to Think Critically.
Time required: 60 mins.
Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium – teacher explains the task to students, challenges students on their critical thinking and arguments and facilitates class discussion.
Resources required:
- Student Worksheet – one copy per group.
Related Professional Development: This activity forms a part of the How to Teach Critical Thinking professional development course. If this is a skill you’d like to develop further, consider signing up for the course.
Keywords: critical thinking, empathy, birthday, teamwork, nuclear
Cool Australia’s curriculum team continually reviews and refines our resources to be in line with changes to the Australian Curriculum.
Teacher Preparation