Characteristics of Critical Thinking

Empower your SENCOs and SLT to identify and nurture critical thinking skills in students with special educational needs. This comprehensive one-page document provides a clear framework for observing and assessing key characteristics of critical thinking in the classroom.

Key Features:
☆ Targeted Questions: Thought-provoking questions focus on three core areas of critical thinking:
Having their own ideas: Does the child generate original thoughts and solutions?
Using what they already know to learn new things: Does the child make connections and apply prior knowledge?
Choosing ways to do things and finding new ways: Does the child demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in their approach to tasks?
☆ Practical Guidance: Offers clear guidance on what to look for in student behavior and responses, making it easy to identify and document evidence of critical thinking.
☆ Differentiated Approach: Considers the unique needs of SEN students, providing prompts to assess their progress with and without support.
☆ Actionable Insights: Helps educators tailor instruction and interventions to promote the development of critical thinking skills in SEN students.

Benefits:
☆ Enhance Observation Skills: Equip your team with the tools to effectively observe and assess critical thinking in SEN students.
☆ Promote Individualized Learning: Gain valuable insights into each student’s strengths and areas for growth, enabling targeted support.
☆ Foster a Growth Mindset: Encourage a positive learning environment where all students are empowered to think critically and creatively.
☆ Streamline Assessment: Simplify the assessment process with a clear and concise framework.

Invest in your SEN students’ future by nurturing their critical thinking skills.

Ideal for: SENCOs, SLT, special education teachers, teaching assistants, and anyone working with students with special educational needs.