Effective Methods for Developing Critical Thinking in New Generation Textbooks

Abstract: This article analyzes effective ways to develop students’ critical thinking using new generation textbooks as an example. The study examines the role of tasks and exercises presented in textbooks in fostering students’ skills of independent thinking, analysis, comparison, and drawing conclusions. Additionally, the importance of interactive methods, communicative approaches, and creative assignments in the development of critical thinking is highlighted.

Keywords: new generation textbooks, critical thinking, interactive methods, creative tasks, independent thinking

In today’s world, reforms are being implemented in every sphere of human life. Likewise, as a result of recent reforms in the education system, new generation textbooks are being developed for school students. Unlike traditional textbooks of previous years, these modern textbooks are designed not only to provide knowledge but also to develop critical thinking skills in students, such as independent thinking, analysis, and problem-solving.

In the modern era, the diversity of information is rapidly increasing. In such circumstances, it is crucial not to passively accept information but to reflect on it, assess it critically, and form a correct understanding of reality. Developing these skills should ideally begin in the early stages of higher grades in schools. It is encouraging that the current scope of new textbooks, particularly in the subject of the native language, meets these requirements.

Taking the 5th-grade native language textbook as an example, it is important to note the use of colorful designs and illustrations selected according to the age characteristics of students. For children who have just completed primary education and are moving to higher grades, capturing their attention is essential. The colorful design helps increase their interest in the textbook. In terms of content, the topics are designed according to modern educational principles to develop critical thinking, communication skills, and text-related competencies. The exercises and assignments encourage student engagement, analysis, comparison, and drawing conclusions.

It should also be emphasized that the audio texts included in the textbook directly help develop students’ listening comprehension skills. Students first listen to the text and then answer questions based on its content, expressing their opinions and drawing conclusions.

For example, in Exercise 36 (page 115) of the 5th-grade native language textbook, the audio text “If You Want to Win” is provided. After listening attentively, students are required to answer the following questions:

What were the conditions of the competition organized by the frogs?

Why did the audience begin to doubt that the frogs could win?

How did the audience’s attitude affect the participants?

How might the winning frog have responded to the questions from the participants and the audience?

These questions encourage students not just to retell the text but to understand the reasons behind events, analyze the actions of characters, think critically, and draw conclusions. The fourth question, in particular, requires students to demonstrate creative thinking and oral expression skills. Through such tasks, students develop a deeper understanding of the text, identify cause-and-effect relationships, and learn to justify their opinions. Additionally, students gradually develop the ability to make independent decisions without being influenced by others’ opinions.

Another type of task in new generation textbooks that contributes to the development of critical thinking is distinguishing between correct and incorrect statements. Such tasks activate students’ thinking processes and encourage them to check, evaluate, justify, and draw conclusions based on information. For instance, in the 5th-grade native language textbook, students are asked to carefully read a short text and identify which statements are supported by evidence and which are not.

The use of audio texts, related exercises, logical questions, and practical assignments in modern textbooks is an effective tool for developing critical thinking. Ultimately, this approach serves the main goal of the educational process — to nurture creative, independent, and critically thinking individuals.

Nilufar Ibroximova was born in 2002 in Norin district, Namangan region. She graduated from the Faculty of Philology at Namangan State University in 2024. Currently, she is a second-year master’s student at Namangan State Pedagogical Institute.