What is a Critical Thinking Skill?
Critical thinking is a way of thinking that involves questioning, analyzing, interpreting, evaluating, and making judgments about the information you read, hear, say, or write. It is a crucial skill for helping students make informed decisions and face challenges in a rapidly changing world.
According to research, the middle school and high school years are a prime time for developing critical thinking skills. Students who regularly engage with diverse and challenging ideas are more likely to think innovatively and apply their creativity in real-world scenarios.
- ISBN: 978-0743235273
- Author: Twyla Tharp
Why it’s recommended:
This book by renowned choreographer Twyla Tharp is suitable for students aged 14 and up. It provides actionable tips to cultivate creativity as a daily habit. The book’s practical exercises encourage readers to break free from routine and find inspiration in the everyday. It’s perfect for students looking to integrate creativity into all aspects of their lives.
- ISBN: 978-0761169253
- Author: Austin Kleon
Why it’s recommended:
This engaging and easy-to-read book is ideal for high schoolers seeking creative inspiration. Austin Kleon offers unconventional advice, encouraging readers to embrace influence and remix ideas to create something uniquely their own. With its illustrated format and motivational tone, it’s a favorite among young readers.
- ISBN: 978-1594634727
- Author: Elizabeth Gilbert
Why it’s recommended:
For students aged 15 and older, this book dives into the mindset needed to unlock creativity. Elizabeth Gilbert explores the relationship between fear and creativity, inspiring readers to pursue their creative passions courageously. It’s an empowering read for students striving to overcome self-doubt.
- ISBN: 978-0440508274
- Author: Michael J. Gelb
Why it’s recommended:
This book, suitable for ages 14 and up, provides a step-by-step guide to developing creative thinking based on Leonardo da Vinci’s methods. With exercises and reflections inspired by the Renaissance genius, students will learn how to observe deeply, question assumptions, and connect ideas in innovative ways.
- ISBN: 978-1936891023
- Author: Steven Pressfield
Why it’s recommended:
This motivational book is ideal for students aged 15 and above who face challenges in pursuing creative projects. Steven Pressfield discusses the barriers to creativity and offers strategies to overcome procrastination and self-sabotage. It’s a must-read for students who need a push to unleash their full potential.
- ISBN: 978-1594485381
- Author: Steven Johnson
Why it’s recommended:
High school students aged 16 and older will appreciate this deep dive into the origins of innovation. Steven Johnson explores how groundbreaking ideas emerge by combining diverse fields and perspectives. It’s a thought-provoking read for students interested in technology, science, and history.
These 7 books are carefully selected to help students develop critical thinking skills. We recommend choosing the one that best suits your learning needs and interests! Developing critical thinking is a gradual process that involves reading, writing, and more.
For families and students looking to improve from multiple perspectives, Aralia offers courses taught by top-tier private high school teachers. Join us to start your journey.
Aralia Upcoming Classes
This course delves into two beloved novels, Jasper and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, while guiding students to master three fundamental types of writing: narrative, explanatory/informative, and argumentative. With a well-structured curriculum focused on building a solid foundation in writing, this course is ideal for students eager to improve efficiently.
This course aims to help students develop strong writing skills by learning to write and revise three essays: persuasive, argumentative, and narrative. Students will learn techniques for writing, proper citation, and avoiding common mistakes in academic writing. Before starting the writing process, students will also learn how to annotate and take notes to support their essay writing.
In this course, students will refine their skills as readers and critical writers. Through in-depth discussions and analyses of short stories and poetry, they will learn to craft sophisticated arguments that reflect an understanding of significant themes and ambiguities within literary works.
