Grade 7 – Pillar 4.1 Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

About Course

The Critical Thinking & Problem Solving course empowers students to think independently, question assumptions, and make reasoned decisions. Throughout the semester, learners develop logical reasoning, creativity, and analytical thinking by engaging in real-world challenges, debates, and decision-making simulations. The course helps students go beyond memorization — to analyze information, identify bias, and apply structured problem-solving frameworks that nurture intellectual curiosity and confident reasoning.

This 16-week course transforms the way students approach challenges. From analyzing facts to building strong arguments, learners explore how to think critically and solve problems creatively. Through games, debates, case studies, and group challenges, they practice questioning, reasoning, and reflection — essential skills for academic success and everyday decision-making.

Week	Module Title	Focus & Key Learning Goal	Main Activity	Product to Deliver
1	Introduction to Critical Thinking	Understand what critical thinking is and why it’s important in daily life.	Class discussion + examples	Critical thinking journal
2	Asking Good Questions	Learn to ask open-ended, deeper, and purposeful questions.	Question-building activity	Question sheet
3	Logical Thinking	Develop logical reasoning through problem-solving puzzles.	Solve logic riddles	Puzzle log
4	Analyzing Information	Distinguish between fact and opinion in different texts.	Compare 2 articles	Fact vs. opinion chart
5	Identifying Bias	Recognize bias and perspective in media and arguments.	Bias-spotting activity	Bias worksheet
6	Problem-Solving Models	Apply structured steps: define, brainstorm, test, reflect.	Class problem-solving	Problem-solving chart
7	Creative Problem Solving	Practice “thinking outside the box” to find unique solutions.	Group creativity challenge	Idea list
8	Mid-Semester Reflection	Reflect on progress and identify growth areas.	Journal + peer discussion	Reflection sheet
9	Decision-Making Skills	Learn to weigh pros and cons to make smart choices.	Case study challenge	Decision chart
10	Argument Skills I	Build clear, evidence-based arguments.	Debate activity	Argument outline
11	Problem Solving in Math	Use logical reasoning to solve mathematical challenges.	Solve word problems	Math problem sheet
12	Collaboration in Problem Solving	Work in teams to address open-ended STEM challenges.	Group STEM challenge	Group report
13	Argument Skills II	Develop rebuttal and counter-argument skills respectfully.	Mini classroom debate	Rebuttal notes
14	Real-Life Problem Solving	Apply critical thinking to real-world or community issues.	Problem-solving workshop	Action plan
15	Simulation Game	Practice quick decision-making in realistic scenarios.	Role-play scenario	Simulation log
16	Semester Showcase	Present problem-solving projects and reflections.	Group presentation	Final report or portfolio

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

Think critically and logically about complex issues.
Distinguish between facts, opinions, and bias in information.
Formulate and defend arguments with clarity and evidence.
Apply structured problem-solving models to real-world challenges.
Collaborate effectively in creative and analytical projects.
Reflect on their reasoning process and decision-making growth.
Demonstrate critical thinking in both academic and personal contexts.

Foundation of Critical Thinking:
Students explore what it means to think critically and why it’s vital for informed decision-making.
Questioning and Reasoning:
Learners develop the habit of asking deep, purposeful questions and applying logic to find valid conclusions.
Bias Awareness:
Students learn to identify bias in media, opinions, and data to make fair and balanced judgments.
Structured Problem Solving:
The course introduces step-by-step frameworks for defining, brainstorming, and testing solutions.
Collaborative and Creative Thinking:
Group projects, role-plays, and STEM challenges strengthen teamwork and creativity under pressure.
Argument and Debate Mastery:
Learners construct clear arguments, practice rebuttals, and engage respectfully in evidence-based discussions.
Real-Life Applications:
Students apply critical thinking to real-world problems in their community, school, and personal life.
Decision-Making Confidence:
The course ends with simulation games and reflection exercises that prepare students to think clearly under pressure.

Course Content

Week 1

💡 Module Objective: Introduction — Understanding Critical Thinking
💡 Module Activity: Introduction — Class Discussion & Examples
💡 Product to Deliver: Introduction — Critical Thinking Journal
Assignment: My Personal Health Chart — “Discovering Balance in Body and Mind”
💡 Capsule 1: Spotting Facts & Opinions
💡 Capsule 2: Recognizing Bias
💡 Capsule 3: Asking Questions
💡 Capsule 4: Applying Critical Thinking
💡 Capsule 5: Reflecting on Thinking
Final Quiz: Introduction to Critical Thinking

Week 2

🧭 Module Objective: Learn to Ask Deeper, Open-Ended Questions
🎯 Module Activity: Question-Building Activity
🧩 Product to Deliver: Question Sheet
Assignment: My Healthy Plate Chart — “Designing the Perfect Meal”
💡 Capsule 1: Turning Facts into Questions
💡 Capsule 2: Asking “Why” Questions — Understanding Causes
💡 Capsule 3: Asking “What If” Questions — Exploring Possibilities
💡 Capsule 4: Asking “How” Questions — Exploring Processes
💡 Capsule 5: Reflection on Curiosity — Developing Lifelong Inquiry
Final Quiz: Asking Good Questions

Week 3

Module Objective: Logical Thinking
Module Activity: Solve Logic Riddles
Product to Deliver: Puzzle Log
Assignment: My Hydration Log — “Fueling My Body with Water”
Capsule 1: Reading the Puzzle — Understanding the Problem
Capsule 2: Writing Clues — Thinking Like a Detective
Capsule 3: Eliminating Options — Narrowing Down the Path
Capsule 4: Solve Answer — Putting Logic into Practice
Capsule 5: Reflect Process — Understanding My Logical Journey
Final Quiz: Logical Thinking

Week 4

Module Objective: Analyzing Information
Module Activity: Comparing Two Short Articles
Product to Deliver: Fact vs Opinion Chart
Assignment: My Sleep Tracker Sheet — “Resting to Recharge”
Capsule 1: Highlight Facts
Capsule 2: Writing Clues — Thinking Like a Detective
Capsule 3: Eliminating Options — Narrowing Down the Path
Capsule 4: Solve Answer — Putting Logic into Practice
Capsule 5: Reflect Process — Understanding My Logical Journey
Final Quiz: Analyzing Information

Week 5

Module Objective: Identifying Bias
Module Activity: Bias-Spotting Activity
Product to Deliver: Bias Worksheet
Assignment: My Fitness Log — “Building Strength Step by Step”
Capsule 1: Read Text — Noticing Perspective
Capsule 2: Spot Opinion Words
Capsule 3: Note Perspective
Capsule 4: Share in Class
Capsule 5: Reflect Fairness — Understanding the Impact of Bias
Final Quiz: Identifying Bias

Week 6

Module Objective: Problem-Solving Models
Module Activity: Solve Class Problem with Model
Product to Deliver: Problem-Solving Chart
Assignment: My Mental Health Journal — “Caring for My Mind Every Day”
Capsule 1: Define Problem
Capsule 2: Brainstorm Solutions
Capsule 3: Pick and Test Solution
Capsule 4: Reflect Outcome
Capsule 5: Idea List — Building a Toolkit for Solutions
Final Quiz: Problem-Solving Models

Week 7

Module Objective: Creative Problem Solving
Module Activity: Group Creativity Challenge
Product to Deliver: Idea List
Assignment: My Screen Balance Chart — “Finding a Healthy Digital Life”
Capsule 1: Pick Object
Capsule 2: List 5 New Uses
Capsule 3: Share with Group
Capsule 4: Vote Best Idea
Capsule 5: Reflect Creativity
Final Quiz: Creative Problem Solving

Week 8

Module Objective: Mid-Semester Reflection
Module Activity: Journal + Peer Discussion
Product to Deliver: Reflection Sheet
Assignment: My Health Reflection Sheet — “Checking My Growth and Goals
Capsule 1: Write Skill Gained
Capsule 2: Write Challenge
Capsule 3: Share Improvement
Capsule 4: Set New Mini-Goal
Capsule 5: Reflect Journey
Final Quiz: Mid-Semester Reflection

Week 9

Module Objective: Decision-Making Skills
Module Activity: Case Study Decision Challenge
Product to Deliver: Decision Chart
Assignment: My Food Culture Sheet — “Tasting the Story Behind Every Meal”
Capsule 1: Read Scenario
Capsule 2: List Pros and Cons
Capsule 3: Choose Option
Capsule 4: Reflect Outcome
Capsule 5: Apply Learning
Final Quiz: Decision-Making Skills

Week 10

Module Objective: Argument Skills I
Module Activity: Debate Activity
Product to Deliver: Argument Outline
Assignment: My Teamwork Log — “Stronger Together Through Movement”
Capsule 1: Write Claim
Capsule 2: Add Evidence
Capsule 3: Add Reasoning
Capsule 4: Present Argument
Capsule 5: Reflect Persuasiveness
Final Quiz: Argument Skills I

Week 11

Module Objective: Problem Solving in Math
Module Activity: Solve Word Problems
Product to Deliver: Math Problem Sheet
Assignment: My Wellness Routine Chart — “Designing a Day That Feels Good”
Capsule 1: Read Carefully
Capsule 2: Identify Variables
Capsule 3: Plan Solution
Capsule 4: Solve Step by Step
Capsule 5: Reflect Accuracy
Final Quiz: Problem Solving in Math

Week 12

Module Objective: Collaboration in Problem Solving
Module Activity: Group STEM Challenge
Product to Deliver: Group Report
Assignment: My Safety Checklist — “Staying Aware, Staying Safe”
Capsule 1: Define Challenge
Capsule 2: Plan Solution
Capsule 3: Build and Test
Capsule 4: Share Results
Capsule 5: Reflect Teamwork
Final Quiz: Collaboration in Problem Solving

Week 13

Module Objective: Argument Skills II
Module Activity: Mini Classroom Debate
Product to Deliver: Rebuttal Notes
Assignment: My Connection Chart — “How Moving My Body Changes My Mind”
Capsule 1: Listen and Analyze
Capsules 2–5: Construct Rebuttal → Present Argument → Respond to Counterarguments → Reflect Respectfully
Capsule 3: Present Argument
Capsule 4: Respond to Counterarguments
Capsule 5: Reflect Respectfully
Final Quiz: Argument Skills II

Week 14

Module Objective: Real-Life Problem Solving
Module Activity: Problem-Solving Workshop
Product to Deliver: Action Plan
Assignment: My Stress Relief Log — “Finding Calm in a Busy World”
Capsule 1: Pick Issue
Capsule 2: Brainstorm Solutions
Capsule 3: Evaluate Options
Capsule 4: Plan Action
Capsule 5: Reflect Impact
Final Quiz: Real-Life Problem Solving

Week 15

Module Objective: Simulation Game
Module Activity: Role-Play Civic/Business Scenario
Product to Deliver: Simulation Log
Assignment: My Awareness Poster — “Choosing Health Over Harm”
Capsule 1: Play Role
Capsule 2: Make Decisions
Capsule 3: Implement Actions
Capsule 4: Monitor Results
Capsule 5: Reflect Learning
Final Quiz: Simulation Game

Week 16

Module Objective: Showcase & Reflection
Module Activity: Semester Showcase
Product to Deliver: Critical Thinking Portfolio
Capsule 1: Pick Best Work
Capsule 2: Present Work
Capsule 3: Share Growth
Capsule 4: Listen to Peers
Capsule 5: Reflect Semester
Final Quiz: Showcase & Reflection
Assignment: My Wellness Portfolio — “Celebrating My Health Journey”

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About Course

What Will You Learn?

Course Content

Week 1

💡 Module Objective: Introduction — Understanding Critical Thinking

💡 Module Activity: Introduction — Class Discussion & Examples

💡 Product to Deliver: Introduction — Critical Thinking Journal

Assignment: My Personal Health Chart — “Discovering Balance in Body and Mind”

💡 Capsule 1: Spotting Facts & Opinions

💡 Capsule 2: Recognizing Bias

💡 Capsule 3: Asking Questions

💡 Capsule 4: Applying Critical Thinking

💡 Capsule 5: Reflecting on Thinking

Final Quiz: Introduction to Critical Thinking

Week 2

🧭 Module Objective: Learn to Ask Deeper, Open-Ended Questions

🎯 Module Activity: Question-Building Activity

🧩 Product to Deliver: Question Sheet

Assignment: My Healthy Plate Chart — “Designing the Perfect Meal”

💡 Capsule 1: Turning Facts into Questions

💡 Capsule 2: Asking “Why” Questions — Understanding Causes

💡 Capsule 3: Asking “What If” Questions — Exploring Possibilities

💡 Capsule 4: Asking “How” Questions — Exploring Processes

💡 Capsule 5: Reflection on Curiosity — Developing Lifelong Inquiry

Final Quiz: Asking Good Questions

Week 3

Module Objective: Logical Thinking

Module Activity: Solve Logic Riddles

Product to Deliver: Puzzle Log

Assignment: My Hydration Log — “Fueling My Body with Water”

Capsule 1: Reading the Puzzle — Understanding the Problem

Capsule 2: Writing Clues — Thinking Like a Detective

Capsule 3: Eliminating Options — Narrowing Down the Path

Capsule 4: Solve Answer — Putting Logic into Practice

Capsule 5: Reflect Process — Understanding My Logical Journey

Final Quiz: Logical Thinking

Week 4

Module Objective: Analyzing Information

Module Activity: Comparing Two Short Articles

Product to Deliver: Fact vs Opinion Chart

Assignment: My Sleep Tracker Sheet — “Resting to Recharge”

Capsule 1: Highlight Facts

Capsule 2: Writing Clues — Thinking Like a Detective

Capsule 3: Eliminating Options — Narrowing Down the Path

Capsule 4: Solve Answer — Putting Logic into Practice

Capsule 5: Reflect Process — Understanding My Logical Journey

Final Quiz: Analyzing Information

Week 5

Module Objective: Identifying Bias

Module Activity: Bias-Spotting Activity

Product to Deliver: Bias Worksheet

Assignment: My Fitness Log — “Building Strength Step by Step”

Capsule 1: Read Text — Noticing Perspective

Capsule 2: Spot Opinion Words

Capsule 3: Note Perspective

Capsule 4: Share in Class

Capsule 5: Reflect Fairness — Understanding the Impact of Bias

Final Quiz: Identifying Bias

Week 6

Module Objective: Problem-Solving Models

Module Activity: Solve Class Problem with Model

Product to Deliver: Problem-Solving Chart

Assignment: My Mental Health Journal — “Caring for My Mind Every Day”

Capsule 1: Define Problem

Capsule 2: Brainstorm Solutions

Capsule 3: Pick and Test Solution

Capsule 4: Reflect Outcome

Capsule 5: Idea List — Building a Toolkit for Solutions

Final Quiz: Problem-Solving Models

Week 7

Module Objective: Creative Problem Solving

Module Activity: Group Creativity Challenge

Product to Deliver: Idea List

Assignment: My Screen Balance Chart — “Finding a Healthy Digital Life”

Capsule 1: Pick Object

Capsule 2: List 5 New Uses

Capsule 3: Share with Group

Capsule 4: Vote Best Idea

Capsule 5: Reflect Creativity

Final Quiz: Creative Problem Solving