Critical thinking

This chapter is organized in three major sections. The first section looks at the meaning of Critical Thinking, its core determinants and some relevance of Critical Thinking. In the second section, we look at how Critical Thinking is displayed in clear and analytic writing. This will take us to study the different types of sentences and identify which ones lead to ambiguity and which ones...

Quiz Type

Practice

Subject

General Knowledge

Level

Level 200

Questions

10 questions

Created By

Jeremiah Azanu

Quick Rules

Time limit: 50 minutes
Multiple attempts are not allowed
All questions must be answered to submit

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Question 1 of 10

Question 1

Basic multiple choice Remembering

What are the six core critical thinking skills identified in the text?

Interpretation, Analysis, Inference, Evaluation, Explanation, Self-Regulation

Correct

Observation, Analysis, Inference, Evaluation, Summarization, Self-Regulation

Interpretation, Synthesis, Inference, Evaluation, Explanation, Self-Reflection

Observation, Reasoning, Inference, Exploration, Evaluation, Self-Assessment

Explanation

The text identifies Interpretation, Analysis, Inference, Evaluation, Explanation, and Self-Regulation as the six core critical thinking skills.

Question 2

Basic multiple choice Understanding

According to the text, what does 'Evaluation' in critical thinking entail?

Assessing the credibility of statements or information

Correct

Identifying relationships among statements

Generating new hypotheses

Recording observations without judgment

Explanation

'Evaluation' involves assessing the credibility of statements or information and making judgments in a clear and thoughtful manner.

Question 3

Basic multiple choice Understanding

Which of the following is mentioned as a benefit of critical thinking in everyday life?

It helps in problem-solving systematically

Correct

It enhances emotional responses to situations

It leads to faster decision-making without analysis

It reduces the need for evidence in decision-making

Explanation

Critical thinking is emphasized as important in everyday activities as it helps individuals solve problems systematically.

Question 4

Basic multiple choice Understanding

What does the term 'Clarity' refer to in clear writing as per the text?

The appropriate use of sentences and words

Correct

The depth of analysis in arguments

The length of written pieces

The number of examples used in writing

Explanation

'Clarity' in writing pertains to the appropriate use of sentences and words that effectively communicate ideas without confusion.

Question 5

Basic multiple choice Understanding

What is one of the roles of critical thinking in governance, as mentioned in the text?

It allows for irrational decision-making

It enables citizens to think critically and rationally for informed decisions

Correct

It encourages emotional responses to policies

It minimizes the importance of research in decision-making

Explanation

The text states that critical thinking is vital for governance as it enables citizens to think critically and rationally, leading to informed decision-making.

Question 6

Complex multiple choice Understanding

A student is preparing a research paper, and they want to ensure they engage in critical thinking throughout their writing process. Which of the following practices best exemplifies critical thinking as outlined in the text?

Focusing solely on their own opinions and beliefs without considering opposing viewpoints.

Collecting evidence from various sources, evaluating its credibility, and actively questioning the assumptions behind those sources.

Correct

Writing the paper without an organizational structure to save time.

Using complex jargon to impress the reader instead of clear and concise language.

Explanation

The correct answer is the second option, as it reflects the core critical thinking skill of Evaluation, where a student assesses the credibility of statements and evidence. The other options demonstrate common misconceptions about critical thinking, such as ignoring opposing viewpoints or prioritizing complexity over clarity.

Question 7

Complex multiple choice Analyzing

During a group discussion about a social issue, one member argues for a particular viewpoint but fails to provide evidence to support their claims. According to the principles of critical thinking discussed in the text, how should other members respond to foster a more analytical discourse?

Agree with the member to maintain harmony in the group, regardless of the lack of evidence.

Challenge the member to clarify their argument and request supporting evidence for their claims.

Correct

Ignore the claims made and change the topic to avoid confrontation.

Passively listen without engaging, as critical thinking is not necessary in discussions.

Explanation

The correct response is the second option, which involves engaging in critical thinking by questioning and seeking clarification. This reflects the skill of Analysis in identifying relationships and evaluating arguments. The other options represent misconceptions about productive discussions, where avoiding conflict or unquestioningly agreeing hinders critical engagement.

Question 8

Case based multiple choice Understanding

[Case Scenario] During a training seminar on effective communication, the facilitator posed a scenario: a journalist is tasked with writing an article about a recent political event that has caused public outcry. To gather information, the journalist needs to critically analyze the data collected from numerous sources including official statements, social media reactions, and public opinions. The facilitator emphasized the importance of clarity, coherence, and conciseness in the article's composition to avoid ambiguity. Question: Which critical thinking skill is most essential for the journalist in synthesizing this information and presenting it in a clear manner?

Self-Regulation

Clarity

Correct

Conciseness

Control

Explanation

In the given scenario, clarity is emphasized as crucial for the journalist to effectively communicate the complexities of the political event and ensure that the message is understood by the audience.

Question 9

Case based multiple choice Understanding

[Case Scenario] A university professor is reviewing a series of essays written by students on the importance of critical thinking in their personal and academic lives. In her review, she notes that many students fail to demonstrate the core critical thinking skills identified in the chapter, such as analysis and evaluation, although they present interesting ideas. Some essays are well-organized but lack depth in critical argumentation and evidence. Question: What conclusion can the professor draw from the essays regarding the students' application of critical thinking skills?

Students are proficient in presenting ideas but lack analytical depth.

Correct

All students are equally skilled in critical thinking.

Essays lacking organization often reflect strong critical thinking.

Clear writing negates the need for critical thinking.

Explanation

The students demonstrate an understanding of presenting ideas but lack the analytical and evaluative depth necessary for strong critical thinking, as the professor noted in her review of the essays.

Question 10

Case based multiple choice Understanding

[Case Scenario] In a workshop aimed at developing critical writing skills, participants were introduced to the '5Cs' that contribute to clear writing: Correctness, Clarity, Conciseness, Coherence, and Control. As part of an activity, they were asked to analyze a poorly written paragraph and identify which of the '5Cs' it lacked most significantly. After group discussions, the consensus was that the writing was confusing and difficult to follow. Question: Based on this workshop experience, which 'C' did the participants determine was most critical for understanding this paragraph?

Correctness

Conciseness

Clarity

Correct

Control

Explanation

The participants identified clarity as the most critical aspect lacking in the poorly written paragraph, as it directly impacted their ability to understand the content effectively.