Summer Institute
SCORING GUIDE—FOR CRITICAL THINKING

LEVEL

AREAS FOR ASSESSMENT

1

Ability to Communicate/Convey Ideas Effectively

i

 develops a complete profile of the topic

ii

 integrates and elaborates on the critical vocabulary

iii

 uses complex languaging—ie. sentence structure, word choice

iv

 expresses ideas through implication, analogies, metaphors

v

 conceptualizes and conducts a symposium presentation—enthusiasm for the discoveries

2

Complex Thinking

i

 clarifies the problem

ii

 acknowledges multiple variables

iii

 predicts effects of variables

iv

 forms relationships

v

 makes interdisciplinary connections

3

Evaluative Reflection

i

 experiences a thorough and thoughtful, peer & self-reviewed process

ii

 evaluates the relevancy of data and source credibility

iii

 judges the adequacy with which conclusions are supported with data

iv

 assays the thinking strategies and scientific processes involved in the evolution of this research

4

Depth and Range in Thinking

i

 integrates the learning from different areas into a plan for solving a problem or addressing an issue

ii

 raises and pursues root and extension questions for further researching, reflecting or questioning—asks what if questions

iii

 examines assumptions

iv

 considers multiple perspectives

v

 uses scientific concepts/ processes as tools & triggers to stimulate thought, & generate new thinking and rethinking

5

Creative Reasoning Applied

i

 builds ideas from past experiences

ii

 connects these experiences and demonstrates real world relevance

iii

 applies ideas to new situations

iv

 explores implications and consequences

v

 leads audience to insight

vi

 develops a vision for future, world-changing applications