Challenging Beliefs in Critical Thinking
A Grade 7 ELA worksheet focusing on identifying and challenging personal biases and beliefs for effective critical thinking.
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Challenging Beliefs in Critical Thinking
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Read the following passage and answer the questions that follow. Think critically about your own beliefs and how they might influence your understanding.
The Power of Perspective
Critical thinking isn't just about analyzing information; it's also about understanding how our own minds work. Each of us carries a unique set of beliefs, experiences, and cultural backgrounds that shape how we view the world. These perspectives, while valuable, can sometimes act as a filter, making us more receptive to information that confirms what we already believe and more resistant to ideas that challenge our existing views. This natural tendency is called confirmation bias.
For example, imagine two friends, Alex and Ben, are discussing a new school rule about phone usage. Alex, who believes phones are a distraction, might only notice articles and anecdotes that support this view, like stories of students failing tests due to phone use. Ben, who sees phones as essential for communication, might focus on arguments about emergencies or educational apps. Both friends are looking at the same topic, but their pre-existing beliefs guide what information they prioritize and how they interpret it.
To truly think critically, we must learn to challenge our own beliefs. This doesn't mean abandoning what we think is true, but rather being open to examining why we believe it and considering alternative viewpoints. It involves actively seeking out information that might contradict our initial thoughts and fairly evaluating that evidence. This process of self-reflection and open-mindedness allows us to develop more nuanced understandings and make more informed decisions.
1. What is 'confirmation bias' as described in the passage?
The ability to quickly confirm facts.
The tendency to seek out and interpret information that supports one's existing beliefs.
A method for critically evaluating all information equally.
The act of changing your beliefs frequently.
2. According to the passage, what is one way to truly think critically?
Only read information that agrees with your views.
Avoid discussing topics with people who disagree.
Actively seek out information that might contradict your initial thoughts.
Stick firmly to your first opinion on every topic.
3. Our unique set of beliefs, experiences, and cultural backgrounds can act as a that shapes how we view the world.
4. The tendency to be more receptive to information that confirms what we already believe is called .
5. To develop more nuanced understandings, we should practice and .
6. Explain in your own words why it is important to challenge your own beliefs when thinking critically.
7. Describe a situation where your personal beliefs might influence how you interpret information. How could you try to overcome this bias?
8. Critical thinking means always sticking to your first opinion.
True
False
9. Actively seeking out information that contradicts your beliefs can help you think more critically.
True
False
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