Critical Thinking and Friends

In September I started teaching a Critical Thinking Class aimed at 12 to 16 year olds. The idea behind the class was to get the kids thinking outside the box in the area of things that are going on in their community, nation and world. Also, this is the stage in their development when they really like to get down to the nitty-gritty of a subject and discuss it (aka argue). A pre-teen/teen is hardwired to argue and we, as their parents, are trying to present a situation where they can learn to productively and rationally argue a point.

I use short video clips from John Stossel in the Classroom which we watch and then I turn them loose to discuss. I am there to make sure everyone gets a chance to express their opinion, but other than that, I sit back and listen in amazement. Some topic examples are food irradiation, rescues for stupidity, endangered species, universal pre-k and border patrol. The kids have far surpassed the initial expectation of the class. These normally sulky and argumentative (for the sake of arguement) kids are amazing when given the chance to say something intelligent and to come up with an opinion backed with facts. They simply needed a common topic and permission to express themselves. I am not saying that they don't argue about cleaning their rooms or eating their dinner, but they are at least undertanding the mechanics of a good discussion and how to get their point across. I have been learning so much about the way their minds work and I am impressed with what they can come up with when given a challenge. They are deep thinkers just waiting for someone to ask them their opinion. I will say that their ability to discuss the pros and cons are improving as we get further into the class. They are learning that arguing with a purpose is far more fun than arguing just to argue. In addition, they are learning to respect differing points of view. My faith in the future generation as the leaders of this country and the world is renewed.

After class we give them a chance to just hang out together. This is a great group of kids! America, your future is in good hands.