Thinking for Yourself: Developing Critical Thinking Skills Through Reading and Writing - Softcover

Mayfield, Marlys

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0155062565 ISBN 13: 9780155062566

Publisher: Cengage Learning, 2000

Synopsis

This book teaches students standards for evaluating the thinking of others as they engage in critical reading. Moving from the simple to the complex, the book begins with such basics as distinguishing fact from opinion in preparation for developing more advanced cognitive skills. Each chapter builds on previously developed skills, reinforcing the connections through exercises and writing assignments. With its lucid exposition, real-world examples, and engaging mix of cartoons, multicultural readings and exercises, this ground-breaking book helps students write more clearly by showing them how to focus on their own thinking and perception.

About this title

About the Author

Marlys Mayfield was a pioneer in the teaching critical thinking together with writing; she began developing this book for her English composition students at the College of Alameda in 1983. At present she offers her services as a critical thinking teaching consultant.

Review

"Your text is the only one that doesn't scare students away. Most try to cover too much, no visuals, small print, snobbish, elitist. Students have to feel this knowledge is not a mystery. Also they can get overwhelmed if burdened with too many world problems. Humor is good in this text and hope. I like your text because it emphasizes examining your own thinking instead of only pointing out holes in the thinking of others."

"I like the current edition because of its mix of readings; it balances old and new, liberal and conservative, works of interest to younger and older students. The author is also brave in discussing real political issues."

"I like this text because it sees students capable of learning, validates their learning. I like the grounding in observations skills, working with real subjects and with photos, the way in which they are shown that they can see more than they thought at the beginning. They learn that they can correct their own judgments, and that their own opinion can change. They learn that what is there is much more there than they had thought going in. They learn that critical thinking is a way of creating, not just a matter of putting down things you don't like."

Edition details

• Publisher: Cengage Learning
• Publication date: 2000
• ISBN 10: 0155062565
• ISBN 13: 9780155062566
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 5
• Number of pages: 416