Art of Thinking : Guide to Critical and Creative Thought

Accessible and engaging, this unique text offers strategies for critical and creative thinking and includes many opportunities for practicing these fundamental skills.

This text introduces students to the principles and techniques of critical thinking, taking them step-by-step through the problem-solving process. Emphasizing creative and active thought processes, the author asserts that good thinking isn't merely knowing what not to do; it is knowing what to do. The book's four parts, "Be Aware," "Be Creative," "Be Critical," and "Communicate Your Ideas," present students with a process for solving problems and resolving controversial issues. Discussions of how to evaluate ideas and how to question long-held assumptions or biases help students look at concepts critically. This text can be used in freshman experience courses and other courses where instructors want to enhance students' critical thinking skills.

Features

• Chapter 4, "Be A Critical Reader," focuses on the challenge of critical reading and provides a four-step strategy for students.
• Coverage of persuasion and argument offers strategies on writing a better argument and encourages students to develop an interest in current issues relating to argument.
• Emphasis on creative and critical thinking moves beyond traditional texts by encouraging students to problem solve creatively.
• Numerous, problem-solving exercises-including group discussion, composition, and speech exercises-demonstrate the various applications of good thinking skills as well as methods for sharpening them.
• Chapter 14, "Persuading Others," teaches students how to anticipate their audience's objections, and how to build a persuasive case.
• Chapter 15, "Writing and Speaking Effectively," offers reminders about the writing process and provides instruction on delivering oral presentations and formal speaking.