Critical Thinking
Critical Thinking is primarily a post-16 subject, although students do study some Critical Thinking skills in other subjects at an earlier age. It is generally studied in addition to other post-16 subjects and students receive only one lesson per week.
Students learn to identify when a persuasive argument is being made, to analyse the argument that is being used and to criticise any such argument where appropriate. This enables students to improve the quality of their own arguments and gives them the skills with which to resolve dilemmas where opposing arguments are a problem.
These highly transferable skills are much sought after by universities and employers. They may also help student achieve more in other A-level courses.
Department Staff
| Name | Position |
| Dr R Moran | Head of Department / AS / A2 Critical Thinking / Science teacher |
| Mr P Latham | AS Critical Thinking / History teacher / Deputy Principal |
| Mrs E Harrison | AS Critical Thinking / History teacher |
Syllabus
Students study OCR AS and A2 Critical Thinking
At AS level there are two modules:
- Introduction to Critical Thinking
- Assessing and developing argument
Students who successfully complete the AS course can study the A2 course in year 13 leading to a full A-level. There are two further modules at A2:
- Ethical Reasoning and Decision Making
- Critical Reasoning
Students showing particular aptitude may be entered for the Advanced Extension Award.
Results
| Year | AS Pass rate | A-Level Pass rate | AEA |
| 2008 | 90% | 100% | 1 Distinction 1 Merit |
| 2007 | 100% | 100% | |
| 2005 | 95% | 100% | 1 Merit |
| 2004 | 93% | Qualification did not exist |
The results may not be comparable with other subjects because of the reduced time spent studying the subject.
