AS/A2 OCR

The Critical Thinking course is designed to challenge students and improve their powers of analysis and fine tune their evaluation skills.  It is because of this that it is very beneficial to students who may have to sit a University Entrance Examination such as LNAT, HNAT and medical course exams. 

It is primarily a skills based course, so there is little formal learning required.  The AS course focuses on debating and arguing skills, the structure of arguments and flaws are examined.  The A2 is more rigorous and is mainly concerned with “resolving dilemmas” and further critical reasoning such as syllogisms. Although quite demanding, the lessons are always topical and explore issues such as “did we really land on the moon” and “does watching television make you less intelligent”.

The Examinations
There are four written exams involving the evaluation of stimulus material, usually on an interesting and controversial subject.  The questions are a mix of multi-choice and short free response.

AS  
Module 1 - Credibility of Evidence
Module 2 - Evaluating Arguments

A2
Module 3 - Resolution of Dilemmas
Module 4 - Critical Reasoning

For some students the AS is a compulsory core skill unit.

Preferred Entry Requirements
You must have a good command of the English Language as you are required to write detailed analysis of texts in a short period of time.*

*Please note that your enrolment on to a particular course must be approved by the Head of that department.