HOW TO WRITE A RESPONSE POST:

For posts you make in response to other students, we look for more than just
a response of affirmation. The response post should show some depth and
critical analysis rather than just expressions of agreement or praise. Strive to
contribute to the intellectual growth of the discussion through critical
thinking.

Below are some tips on how to write an effective response post.

1. Analysis : Separate the statements made by your classmate into their

components and analyze them separately. Do they reveal an unfounded
assumption? Do they lack evidence to support them?

2. Constructive criticism : Provide constructive feedback on how the other

student could improve their reasoning. Point out both the strong and
weak points of their publication.

3. Elaboration : Take advantage of your peers' ideas by offering additional

information, examples, or evidence. Take the discussion to a deeper or
broader level.

4. Questions : Ask thought-provoking questions. These questions should

challenge your classmates to think more deeply about their claims or
clarify their arguments.

5. Evidence : Encourage your fellow students to provide more evidence for

their claims. If they say something like, "Many people believe..." Ask, "Can
you give us an example of someone who believes that?"

6. Alternative Interpretations: Challenge your classmates to consider their

analysis from a different perspective.

PH1029S Critical Thinking \ 1