Critical Thinking AS Level

Critical Thinking is a relatively new but well established and popular AS course that is highly regarded by universities, colleges and employers. The course offers training in essential critical skills (including analysis of arguments, evaluation of patterns of reasoning, assessing credibility of evidence and reconstructing and presenting arguments). Important skills are learned through class study, practice and application. Critical skills can be applied in nearly all subject areas - humanities, languages, sciences and arts - and Critical Thinking is compatible with virtually any combination of AS/A2 courses.

During the course you will learn to identify the main elements of reasoning; to evaluate reasoning of different kinds; to recognise assumptions and analyse them critically; to clarify ideas and to present arguments effectively and cogently.

You will use a variety of materials, including texts from books, magazines and newspapers, TV and radio programmes, transcripts from court cases, political speeches, debates and so on. Lessons typically involve introduction to and practice of essential skills; discussion and debate; use of video, PowerPoint; small group presentations; short projects involving research using the Internet and library resources.

There is no coursework as such. Assessment is by a final written examination, consisting of two papers.