Cottrell, Stella (2011) Critical Thinking Skills – Developing Effective Analysis and Argument, Second Edition, Palgrave Study Skills, Palgrave MacMillan
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he second edition of this leading guide helps students to develop reflective thinking skills, improve their critical analysis and construct arguments more effectively. Written by Stella Cottrell, leader in the field with over 1/2 million book sales to date, this text breaks down a complex subject into easily understood blocks, providing easy-to-follow, step-by-step explanations and practice activities to develop understanding and practise your skills at each stage. Essential for students who are mystified by tutor comments such as ‘more critical analysis needed’, this is an invaluable tool for anyone wishing to develop advanced skills in this area and learn to apply them to tasks such as reading, writing and note-taking.
Now in two-colour, this edition has been fully revised and contains a brand new chapter on ‘Critical Reflection’ along with additional material on essays and referencing.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Glossary
Acknowledgements
What is Critical Thinking?
How Well Do You Think? Develop Your Thinking Skills
What’s Their Point? Identifying Arguments
Is it an Argument? Argument and Non-Argument
How Well Do They Say It? Clarity, Consistency and Structure
Reading Between the Lines: Recognising Underlying Assumptions and Implicit Arguments
Does it Add Up? Identifying Flaws in the Argument
Where’s the Proof? Finding and Evaluating Sources of Evidence
Critical Reading and Note-Making: Critical Selection, Interpretation and Noting of Source Material
Critical, Analytical Writing: Critical Thinking When Writing
Where’s the Analysis? Evaluating Critical Writing
Critical Reflection
Texts for Activities
Practice Activities on Longer Texts
Appendix
Bibliography
Index
Cottrell, Stella (2008) The Study Skills Handbook (Palgrave Study Skills), Third Edition, Palgrave MacMillan
There is a newer version of this book
If you are serious about succeeding on your course, The Study Skills Handbook is your essential companion. Based on over 20 years’ experience of working with students, 1/2 million copy bestselling author Stella Cottrell helps you develop the skills you need to improve your grades, build your confidence and plan for the future you want. Her tried and trusted approach recognises that we each have a unique formula for success and that finding it is the key to reaching our potential. This book will help you to:
– use your learning style and existing skills effectively
– develop core study skills in time management, academic writing, critical thinking and more
– discover how to make learning easier and faster
– improve your grades and make study more enjoyable.
Whether you are a school or college leaver, a mature student, or an international student embarking on university-level study in English for the first time, this handbook is your passport to success.
Preparing for University
Identifying Your Skills
Intelligence and Learning
The CREAM Strategy for Learning – Creative, Reflective, Effective, Active, Motivated
Working with Others
Research Skills
E-Learning Skills, Technology and Personalised Learning
Writing for University
Developing Your Writing
Confidence with Numbers
Projects, Dissertations, Reports and Case Studies
Critical Analytical Thinking
Memory
Revision and Exams
Planning Your Next Move
What Now?
References
Index