What critical thinking skills should students demonstrate on the PECK assessment?

The emphasis on analyzing information, synthesizing ideas, and evaluating arguments reflects core components of critical thinking. This skill set allows students to dissect complex information, draw connections between different concepts, and make reasoned judgments based on evidence.

Analyzing information involves breaking it down to understand its components and how they relate to each other. Synthesizing ideas requires combining separate pieces of information to form a comprehensive understanding or to generate new insights. Evaluating arguments encompasses assessing the validity and strength of various claims or positions, enabling students to discern credible information from unreliable sources.

These skills are essential for students on the PECK assessment as they demonstrate a deeper level of understanding and engagement with the material, rather than merely recalling facts or following instructions without deeper consideration. This holistic approach aligns well with the educational goal of fostering independent thinkers who can navigate complex issues effectively.