What practice can help foster critical thinking in literacy?

Asking students to formulate predictions is an effective practice for fostering critical thinking in literacy because it engages students in active reading and comprehension. When students make predictions about a text, they must draw upon their prior knowledge, understand the context, and evaluate clues within the text. This process encourages them to think critically about the content, make connections, and anticipate outcomes.

Making predictions requires students to analyze the information presented, consider the implications, and articulate their reasoning, all of which are essential components of critical thinking. It also sets the stage for further discussions and explorations, allowing students to revisit their predictions as they read, thereby deepening their understanding of the material and enhancing their analytical skills. This kind of engagement with texts promotes a deeper level of thinking beyond mere memorization or passive reading.