We have introduced a six week programme for KS3 on Critical Thinking in Year 9. This programme is a taster and preparation for the students who are aiming to take Critical Thinking in Year 10. The programme at KS3 supports the work of Critical Thinking at Richmond College.

In Year 10 students are invited to apply to do the AS Level Critical Thinking Course at Richmond College. After submission of their application an interview will follow.

AS Level Critical Thinking

Aims:

• Understanding the language and structure of arguments
• To assess the credibility of evidence
• Evaluate reasoning and the use of evidence
• Possess the skills to develop students’ own arguments

Course Outline :

Students will study understanding the language and structure of arguments, meaning they will learn how to both assess and develop an argument in a rational manner. Students will also develop the skills needed to resolve disputes, by learning how to assess the credibility of sources and evidence.

Critical Thinking is a skills based subject. This means that rather than focusing on content, as you would do in a subject such as History, in Critical Thinking you develop the skills to analyse, assess and structure a persuasive, coherent argument. Throughout students draw on real life sources, as well as their imagination and exam type questions, in order to develop their use of skills.

Progression :

Students joining Richmond College can continue with their studies on Critical Thinking. The skills are valuable in many subjects – former students have said how useful it has been for their History coursework and English essays, as well as in discussion and debate.