Good Practice Database >> Developing Critical Thinking Skills Across the Curriculum

LA	Merthyr Tydfil	School Name	Caedraw Primary School

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What was the focus for improvement?
Standards in Critical Thinking and the impact that this will have on a broader range of standards outcomes.

What did we do?
We introduced a full range of pedagogical techniques. These techniques and the supportive ‘Critical Thinking’ tools were learned within the ESIS ‘Critical Thinking’ Think2Learn module and later applied at classroom level.
See presentation and attached files for detail.

What was the outcome?
Improvements in critical thinking across the curriculum.

How did we measure success?
A broad range of evidence as illustrated in the linked files (see end of this page)

What evidence have we collected to demonstrate improvements?
See attached files.

What have we learnt about teaching practice and pupils learning?
This initiative has:
• Made us rethink some of our teaching methods
• Provided excellent opportunities for collaborative work
• Provided a range of activities that are easy to differentiate
• Added variety – raised interest
• Provided outcomes that are opportunities for display
• Encouraged independent and choice making
• Encouraged us to think that the process is as important as the “answer”
• Raised the profile of “thinking” across the school

The success of the Critical Thinking initiative has reinforced our view that the facilitation of pupil learning is the key skill of the teacher. The ideas and tools provided by the Think2Learn programme has helped us develop these skills.

What we aim to do next to further improve learning

• Further develop open ended skills-based investigations
• Incorporate this approach in planning for all subjects
• Further increase our range of learning strategies
• Encourage all staff members to include activities in their teaching
• Develop thinking skills grids
• Continue to share materials and ideas via cluster group meetings
• Create an E-portfolio of examples of good practice linked to our transition website

Supporting Documentation
1. Powerpoint presentation: autumn 2007 Link2Learn sharing good practice conference.
2. Odd one out – Y6 mental starters
3. Clowns database - questions
4. Clowns database – lesson plans
5. Clowns database – record cards
6. Clowns database - fieldnames
7. Boatboy Layers
 

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