Teaching Critical Thinking in the Context of Political Rhetoric

<p>During the past several decades there has been a blitz of information sometimes referred to as the knowledge explosion and students have struggled in their attempts to distinguish true fake and terribly biased information especially regarding political issues. This book highlights the value of critical thinking as a way to navigate this difficult and frustrating terrain so that students grow and develop as knowledgeable independent thinkers. To promote this growth the book offers thoughtful evidence-based advice for teachers to support students’ deep thinking as it relates to real-world contexts. Strategies presented include student reflection based on experience moving from narrow to broader perspectives and using graphic organizers to build and activate knowledge before during and after instructional activities. With the instructional guidance and activities presented in this short easy-to-apply volume teachers can give students the tools they need to negotiate the often-murky waters of political communication.</p>