Abstract
Critical thinking is an art that sheds light on things that cannot be discerned using normal common sense. These are hidden things that can only be unveiled through thorough racking of the brain. Critical thinking lays bare the realties that could not be perceived through any other means. It therefore takes different forms in the minds of different individuals.
This leads to emergence of different logics and ideas. In order to rate all the conflicting ideas using a general system, Paul and Elder (2006) came up with a criteria that can be used to uniformly analyze and grade articles in respect to various aspects. This essay will therefore analyze an article using this criterion. The main objective of this paper is to expose the strengths of the article.
Introduction
Critical and analytical thinking are two elements that go hand in hand. Paul and Elder’s (2006) critical thinking test does not only emphasize on critical thinking, but also portrays analytical as an equally significant feature. This is why their test has been approved internationally as containing the appropriate procedure trying the thinking and reasoning standards of students and anybody else.
Critical and analytical thinking is also important in analyzing articles and other forms of literature (Paul and Elder, 2007). This essay aims at showing the suitability of critical and analytical thinking as tools to review and rate an article. After a critical and analytical scrutiny of the article, the essay will also declare the author’s stance on whether he would consider it as an appropriate research material in support of his own writing.
Appropriate Use of Language
In the article, “How Students Develop Creative Peanut Butter and Jelly Construction Skills: Thinking Outside the Breadbox”, by Jellerman, the author uses a language that is clear and simple for the easy comprehension of the average student.
His vivid description of the step by step procedure of developing peanut butter and jelly sandwiches is appealing not only to the instructors but also to the pupils. This is one striking feature about the article. His skillful and careful choice of words guarantees that each and every single reader understands what he or she is reading. Such articles are not easy to come by and that is why the writer would not hesitate to use this particular one as a research material if given the chance to.
Noble Purpose of the Article
Jellerman’s decision to write about a least-researched topic leaves a question mark on the minds of many. One would be mistaken to think that this was an effort to advocate for his own popularity.
However, this may not be the case. If his decision was to be approached critically, one would note that the sole purpose of the author was to empower anyone who would care to read his article with the knowledge and skill of making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
It is amazing that the author can write about one of the least talked about subjects in life and still manage to present it in such a way that it evokes a desire to read more. This is the second reason why the writer of this essay considers Jellerman’s article as a good research material for anyone writing about peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
Uniqueness of the Article
Furthermore, Jellerman portrays a sense of originality and authenticity in his article. He presents the facts in such a manner that has never been witnessed before. The fact that he took the initiative to even conduct a detailed survey on the most effective methods of teaching students how to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches shows his commitment to his work.
It is common these days to come across an author or two who merely make up data and write vague articles basing on a heap of assumptions and unreliable sources (Ballerini and Maestro, 2005). Jellerman’s statistics are straight from the field. This lends credence to every word that he uses in the article.
Universal Acceptability of the Article
With such outstanding qualities, it is no doubt that Jellerman’s article on how students can develop creative peanut butter and jelly construction skills are read worldwide today. It is bound to become a major resource material especially to students with a special interest in home science and cookery. At the end of the article, there is a mild disappointment at its brevity. I am sure that am not only the one anticipating for the release of a book by Jellerman on the same topic.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jellerman’s article “How Students Develop Peanut Butter and Jelly Construction Skills” is simply a masterpiece. The knowledge found inside is of crucial importance to every reader. The article is also made simple and fun to read by the use of an appropriate choice of words and original data. Because of the above reasons, I would be comfortable to use this article in my own writing.
Reference List
Ballerini, L. and Maestro, M. (2005). The art of cooking: The first modern cookery book. New York: University of California.
Paul, R., and Elder, L. (2006). The international critical thinking, reading, & writing test. Dillon Beach, CA: Foundation for Critical Thinking.
Paul, R. and Elder. L. (2007). The thinker’s guide for students on how to study and learn a discipline. Dillon Beach, CA: Foundation for Critical Thinking.