The Critical Thinking Co
The Critical Thinking Co.™, established by John Baker in 1958 as Midwest Publications, evolved from a math-focused textbook company to a provider of diverse educational materials fostering critical thinking in students. Under John's guidance and later his son Michael's presidency, the company's name changed to reflect its expanding mission, culminating in the adoption of its current name in 2003. Emphasizing the importance of critical thinking, the company aims to empower students with skills essential for academic success and lifelong challenges. With a commitment to social responsibility, it continues to donate thousands of products annually to children in need, embodying John Baker's legacy of enriching educational experiences.
What It Is
The Critical Thinking Company offers a comprehensive suite of educational materials that are designed to enhance critical thinking skills across various subjects. This all-in-one curriculum supports a wide range of educational needs from early learning to advanced high school subjects, focusing on developing a deeper understanding and application of critical thinking.
How It Works
Parents integrate The Critical Thinking Company's curriculum by actively participating in their child's learning process. The curriculum includes detailed instructions and materials that guide parents on how to introduce concepts and tasks. Parents are encouraged to discuss materials with their children, guide them through problem-solving exercises, and help them apply what they learn to real-world situations. This interactive approach ensures that children not only learn but also understand how to use critical thinking skills effectively.
Unique Features
The Critical Thinking Company distinguishes itself by its rigorous approach to education, emphasizing analytical skills, reasoning, and logic across all subjects. This all-encompassing focus is designed to prepare students not just for academic success but for lifelong learning and problem-solving.
Educational Subjects Covered
The curriculum spans a comprehensive range of subjects, each designed to incorporate critical thinking skills:
Language Arts: Enhances comprehension and analytical writing skills.
Mathematics: Develops problem-solving and logical reasoning.
Science: Applies critical thinking to scientific inquiry.
Social Studies: Focuses on analyzing historical events and data.
Critical Reading and Writing: Builds capacity to interpret and critique textual information.
Strengths
The curriculum is highly regarded for its engaging content that makes learning a dynamic and interactive process. It successfully integrates critical thinking into traditional subjects, making lessons both challenging and enjoyable. The variety in teaching methods and materials also caters to different learning preferences, ensuring that all students can benefit.
Areas for Improvement
While the curriculum is comprehensive, some parents find the amount of content to be overwhelming. The requirement for active parental involvement can also be demanding for some families. Better structuring and possibly more supportive resources for new homeschooling parents could enhance usability.
Tips from Parents
Parents recommend starting with simpler activities and gradually increasing complexity as children become more comfortable with the critical thinking process. Frequent discussions and practical applications of the concepts learned are also suggested to reinforce material and maintain student engagement.
Integration into Homeschooling
Incorporating this curriculum into a homeschooling routine involves a structured approach where parents are guides and facilitators. The materials are designed to be flexible, allowing parents to adapt lessons to fit their schedules and their children’s learning paces.
Ideal Fit
This curriculum is ideal for families who value educational rigor and are committed to an interactive, involved approach to learning. It suits those who are keen on developing critical thinking skills that students can apply throughout their education and beyond.
Non-Ideal Fit
It may not be the best choice for families looking for a more hands-off educational product or for those who prefer a curriculum that requires minimal parental involvement. It’s also less suited for those who prefer a less structured or more exploratory. project-based approach to education.
Grades
The curriculum covers educational materials suitable for students from preschool through grade 12, offering a range of complexity to cater to different age groups and learning stages.
Cost
The cost of the materials ranges from $14.99 to $42.99 per title, depending on the specific books and materials chosen.
How to Get it
Products can be directly purchased from The Critical Thinking Company's website, which often features discounts and special offers that make the curriculum more accessible.
Affiliate Disclaimer
This review may include affiliate links, which do not influence the editorial content but may earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase.
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