Critical Thinking

- CT Banner

Critical Thinking at FASNY is a key component of learning, teaching, and navigating the world. It is a crucial piece of the FASNY experience. After all, our Mission strives to “nurture creative, open-minded, critical thinkers to become lifelong learners motivated to lead, contribute and thrive in an ever-changing world.”

Individuals who are strong critical thinkers are open-minded; they are problem solvers who can think outside of the box for smart solutions. They are reflective and resourceful while they analyze information and evidence, and they make connections between what they already know and what they are trying to figure out. From our youngest students to our oldest, Critical Thinking is woven into all that we do.

While the Critical Thinking curriculum studies the cognitive sciences and the functioning of the brain, as well as the art of language and how language can influence one's thoughts and opinions, Critical Thinking is intertwined into all subjects at FASNY.

Whether it is solving puzzles with multiple solutions in Preschool class, using acronyms to problem-solve in grade 4, linking Critical Thinking to Life Skills in Middle School, developing thoughts and ideas in Philosophy, or recognizing one’s own biases in Theory of Knowledge as an IB student, FASNY students are critical thinkers daily, perhaps sometimes without ever even realizing it.

In the age of digital information and a constant struggle to decipher what is real and what is not, learning critical thinking is essential because it equips students with the skills they need to navigate an increasingly complex world. As it empowers them to question assumptions, analyze evidence, and consider multiple perspectives, critical thinking prepares students to handle challenges with confidence and adaptability.

At FASNY, we encourage lifelong learning and intellectual curiosity. We strive to enable our students to thrive in a rapidly changing society and become thoughtful, responsible global citizens.

Critical thinking is a vital skill to develop as school often makes us apply our knowledge in a narrow, specific context. However, in college and later in life, we will not be guided toward using this specific formula or that specific idea. It is up to us to think critically and apply the relevant knowledge to each situation we encounter. - Pauline Prunier '25