Introduction
This lesson is about thinking clearly and asking the right questions. We are surrounded by information. Critical thinking helps you sort through it, question it, and make smart choices online.
You’ll learn how to recognise bias, check the evidence behind what you read, and avoid being misled. This is your brain’s best tool for the digital world!
Critical thinking means not just accepting what you read- but asking:
Is this true?
Who wrote it and why?
Is there any evidence?
Our assumptions — things we believe without checking — can affect how we see the world.
Let’s look at common thinking traps and ways to stop and reflect before jumping to conclusions.
Instructions
Below are 3 short stories where something seems a little off. Can you match each with the type of thinking mistake being made?
Scenario 1
Maria reads an article that confirms her existing beliefs, so she trusts it without checking.
Scenario 2
A headline uses scary words to get attention, but the facts are unclear.
Scenario 3
Tom sees a post with no sources, but shares it anyway because it “feels right.”
Feedback
Well done! You’ve just spotted common thinking traps. These happen to everyone — but now you know how to pause and reflect.
Summary
Great job! In this lesson, you’ve learned what critical thinking is and how it helps you make better choices online.
You practised spotting common thinking mistakes like emotional language or missing facts, and you’ve built tools to stay alert and thoughtful when reading or watching media.
Remember:
- It’s okay to pause and double-check
- Not every story is what it seems
- You are in control of what you believe and share
The more you doubt – the stronger your critical thinking becomes!