A Study for Training of Critical Thinking Attitude in High School Chemistry

-Through the Instruction Focusing on Argumentation-

Abstract

In this study, we propose an instructional method to develop “the critical thinking attitude in science” for high school students. In the method, students analyze the argumentation of other person written on a card, and estimate its structure through some manipulation. In order to investigate effectiveness of the method, we conducted a class in basic chemistry for 40 students at a high school. Based on the analysis of pre-post surveys, we conclude that our method can improve their inquiring mind and reflective thinking attitude, which are part of the critical thinking attitude in science.