Promoting critical thinking skills in the classroom is crucial, to preparing students for the future. Children start school at a young age, learning and memorising the basic fundamental skills needed to excel in future years. They easily pick up learning to read, testing their numeracy skills and are, given a chance to mould their personalities, dislikes and interests. Yet critical thinking skills, for students are a more difficult skill to teach them.

As the actual, use, of critical thinking becomes incredibly important to our modern-day lives, emphasis must be placed on understanding the concept as adults and as teachers to convey that to our students and children.

Just because we are no longer “students” — doesn’t mean we stop learning. We must take the initiative to think critically now. The first step, where we will focus is knowing the definition of critical thinking to analyse our thoughts more effectively.

What is critical thinking?

Critical thinking is the ability to analyse information, evaluate evidence, and make well-informed decisions. Students who think critically connect learning to real-life situations. They don’t just memorise facts; they ask why and how.

Many children start school without these foundational skills. They struggle to separate emotions from logic and hesitate to ask questions. Our role as educators is to guide them toward unlocking their potential. According to one study, 80% of people believe we lack the critical thinking skills society needs Reboot Foundation—a reminder of how vital this skill is.

Building critical thinking skills through classroom strategies

Organise your lessons to foster inquiry

Organising your lessons to encourage curiosity can transform your classroom. Try tools like our free resource, Exploring the Stars, to help students, map their thoughts visually. This type of graphic organiser empowers students to see how their ideas interconnect, boosting their confidence and enhancing critical thinking.

Integrate SEL to promote reflective thinking

Social-emotional learning (SEL) is a powerful foundation for critical thinking. When students feel emotionally secure, they take risks in their learning. Build a supportive classroom environment where they can openly share ideas. These reflective practices help students become more engaged thinkers.

Why critical thinking skills are vital for the future

In a world dominated by innovation and technology, critical thinking skills are essential, for tackling challenges. Students with these skills can adapt, solve problems, and create new ideas. Careers of tomorrow will rely on their ability to connect knowledge across disciplines.

Incorporate arts into your lessons to encourage students to think creatively. Visual prompts, creative projects, or even linking science to literacy can help them approach problems from fresh perspectives. These strategies foster mental flexibility and enhance student engagement.

How to encourage critical thinking in your classroom

Confidence is key

Confidence is a cornerstone of critical thinking. Demonstrate that effort, not ability, leads to success, as Larry Ferlazzo explains in Education Week. Celebrate students’ progress and small wins to show them how persistence pays off.

Real-world connections

Students engage more deeply when they see how lessons relate to real life. Use examples from their experiences or current events to make content relevant. Encourage them to ask questions like, “Why does this matter?” or “What can I do with this knowledge?” These connections help embed critical thinking as a lifelong skill.

Unlock the power of critical thinking

Critical thinking is not an optional skill; it’s an essential one. By organising lessons, integrating SEL, and connecting learning to the real world, you equip students to become thoughtful and capable learners.

Start with a simple step. Download our free graphic organiser, Exploring the Stars, and let it guide your students in connecting ideas and thinking critically. Together, let’s unlock the power of critical thinking and prepare our students for a dynamic future.

When students master critical thinking skills, they gain the ability to navigate complex situations with confidence. These skills, don’t just help them in the classroom—they prepare them for real-world challenges and opportunities. By fostering, these abilities, you’re setting your students up for lifelong success.