Phi 110

PHIL110 Critical Thinking – SPS CUNY

Unit 1 Discussion Assignment What is Critical Thinking?

Step 1. Review what you and other students said in Unit 0 - Introductions Discussion Forum

about critical thinking and why we need to study it.

Step 2. From your reading assignment in this select any three topics that you found particularly

interesting or useful (for example, World Views, Questions and Autonomy; or Values, Courage

and Consistency). Any three topics will do that correspond to sub-headings in this Unit. Re-read

those sections again and take some notes.

Step 3. Create a new definition for critical thinking, using the concepts and ideas from your

selected reading topics. See if you can come up with a more accurate and informed definition of

critical thinking and the reasons we need to study it. What are habits of good thinking? Use the

textbook as your reference and feel free to quote or paraphrase from it to support your new

definition, with appropriate citations. Address the following questions, then read and respond to

other students with substantial comments:

• Now, what is your more informed understanding of critical thinking?

• How is it different from your original definition (from your Unit 0 Introductory post)?

What has changed?

• How were the three selected topics from the text useful for clarifying your thinking?

Recommendations for Success and Grading Criteria:

• Respond to the assignment with clear and detailed answers, organized thoughts.

• Follow all assignment prompts and answers all prompt questions.

• Incorporate relevant examples and evidence to support claims.

• Write clearly and without errors a well-composed answer and post it on time.

• Respond to other students with interesting comments and follow-up questions. Acknowledge all students who commented on your post.