How can we teach critical reading without doubting everything?
The aim is not rejecting everything, but asking who said it, what is claimed, what evidence exists and whether there is context or another view. Then form a provisional judgement proportionate to evidence.
Practical takeaways
- A clear question guides research.
- Source, evidence and context are different elements.
- Neutral comparison comes before judgement.
Identify the task and source
Before reading, form the question and identify the required answer type. Check the author, date and purpose, without treating a name alone as proof of truth or error.
Fact, opinion and claim
Facts can be checked, opinions express preferences or judgements, and claims need support. Some sentences combine information and persuasive language, requiring analysis.
Comparing two sources
Record the shared topic, one agreement, one difference and evidence type. Do not merge texts into a summary before understanding each position independently.
An evidence-based summary
Give a neutral answer, cite the strongest agreed information, explain differences or limits and identify what remains unknown. This prepares for secondary-school research.
Frequently asked questions
Does a well-known website guarantee correct information?
Reputation is a signal, but check the author, date and evidence and compare information when needed.
What distinguishes an error from a different viewpoint?
An error contradicts a verifiable fact; a viewpoint differs in judgement or priority and needs justification.
How do we recognise strong evidence?
It is specific, relevant to the claim, clearly sourced, checkable or comparable, with stated limitations.