Student Assignment Examples

Noelle:

Reflection: Thinking for yourself

The first chapter introduces you to the importance of observation skills. It has lots of pictures, stories and student writing examples. I really enjoyed the comics and incredibly descriptive text. This chapter has thought me so much about being attentive. That there is much more to a tomato, than being round and red. I agree that painstaking attention to detail ensures important pieces will not be overlooked.

The second chapter talks about word precision and how to describe things. I like that it encourages you to go out and buy a dictionary.  And once you get the dictionary to immediately start looking up words you are unclear on. I think everyone should expand their vocabulary and would benefit from it. With a bigger vocabulary you are able to communicate more effectively and understand thoroughly.

 Review: Thinking for yourself                                                                          

The entire first chapter pushed the importance of observing. With exercises aimed to develop and strengthen observing skills and text that showcased observation to build stories. Being an everyday word one might not think twice when asked to observe something. However, the task takes much more energy and concentration then I initially believed.

What’s the big deal with observing?

To observe means to hold something in front of us. The list of core Critical Thinking skills includes observation, interpretation, analysis, inference, evaluation, explanation, and meta-cognition. Since observation is the first skill I think it is safe to say that you cannot be a Critical Thinker without being a keen observer. Moreover, observing is the basis of data collection an invaluable ability.  A seasoned observer is meticulously attentive and will hone in on small details. Dissecting their specimen with close examination. So intensely that no detail will be missed.  Anyone can build their observing skills simply by practicing. Exercises like those in the book help. Weather writing down descriptive details of a picture or the characteristics of an object you will learn to see more and overlook less.

Reflection: Critical Reading for College and Beyond

The first two chapters in this book are Reading in College and Developing Your College Vocabulary. I think this book is amazing. I love all the study tips. It introduces learning journals, learning strategies, how to improve your concentration, creating a positive mental attitude and that’s just the first chapter! Chapter two discusses why vocabulary is important, a recurring theme in critical thinking. It emphasizes expanding word knowledge.  I enjoyed the context clues exercise and word part analysis.  I believe today’s youth can greatly benefit by learning new words, getting a better understanding of old ones and expanding their minds.

Review:

The first chapter is all about becoming a more efficient learner. It says that if you learn, practice, and apply specific strategies your ability will be greatly enhanced. It walks you through techniques for successful learning. It tells you to find your learning style, avoid distractions, and create an environment conducive to concentration and even shares test taking techniques. Chapter two explains why vocabulary is important and how to develop it.  It is important because if you don’t know the meaning of words and how to use them you will have a hard time reading and communicating. It like the first book suggests buying a dictionary. It says to look up words you don’t know and then practice using them. The book teaches word part analysis. Word analysis is breaking the word into smaller parts: roots, prefixes and suffixes.

What are good studying skills?

The definition of studying is:

Application of the mind to the acquisition of knowledge, as by reading, investigation, or reflection: long hours of study.

To study you need to be able to focus. So atmosphere plays a huge role. You should eliminate distractions such as the telephone and television. A good place to study is the local library. You can be sure it will be quite and you will not be interrupted by friends and family. If you choose to study at home you should avoid studying in bed.  Being too comfortable could led to falling asleep prematurely. Being prepared is also a trait of a good studier. Having everything you need in front of you keeps you organized.  Everyone learns differently and you will have to find out on your own when your best time to study is. Some like to study in the morning and some prefer night. While others like to read on the treadmill. Taking time to study is the first step.

Where do you stand with regard to Critical Thinking?

Feet: What do I stand for as a foundation of Critical Thinking?

I believe the base of Critical Thinking is logic, analysis and organization.

Stomach: What upsets me about Critical Thinking?

It’s disappointing that not everyone has Critical Thinking skills. How organized you have to be, how hard you have to think and that you must stay on track.

Heart: What do I love about Critical Thinking?

The immense amount of knowledge it is giving you.

Hands: What do I feel about Critical Thinking?

That it will make me better at studying, reading, writing and vocabulary.

Ears: What do I hear about Critical Thinking?

I hear Critical Thinking gives you a better understanding and is exercise for the brain.

Eyes: What do I see about Critical Thinking?

That it is a chance to expand my thought process.

Brain: What do I think about Critical Thinking?

I think it provides so much useful information makes it a good tool to help you better get through life.