Developing Critical Thinking Skills for GEP Preparation
The Gifted Education Programme (GEP), a program designed for high-ability learners, has become increasingly competitive in recent years. To succeed in the GEP examination, students need to develop strong critical thinking skills. These skills enable them to analyse information, evaluate arguments, and solve problems effectively.
Training critical thinking skills in kids is not necessarily easy. While some kids pick up critical thinking easily, others need more support to develop this essential skill set. At Terry Chew Academy, we believe in fostering critical thinking through a variety of tailored strategies, including Math Olympiad-style problem-solving. Here, we’ll explore key strategies for cultivating critical thinking in young learners, especially for those preparing for the GEP or similar examinations.
Understanding Critical Thinking: The Rise of GEP Preparation
The rising demand for GEP preparation reflects the importance parents place on critical thinking and advanced problem-solving for their children. The increasing competition has spurred interest in specialised programs like Math Olympiad courses, which engage young learners in high-level thinking and reasoning skills. A recent CNA report highlighted a surge in inquiries for these courses, even from parents of preschool-aged children, as families seek early preparation for the rigorous GEP selection process (Tang, 2024). This trend is driven by parents' desire to provide their children with a head start in their education and prepare them for the challenges of the GEP examination.
The GEP itself has also evolved. Recent updates to the program aim to identify gifted learners across all schools, expanding its accessibility while emphasising critical thinking over rote learning. However, with this expanded access comes a more challenging curriculum, prompting parents to find ways to support their children in mastering analytical and critical thinking skills.
For success in any academic setting, especially in the GEP, critical thinking is crucial. It enables students to analyse information, evaluate perspectives, draw conclusions, and express their understanding effectively—skills that empower them to navigate both examinations and real-world challenges.
Strategies for Developing Critical Thinking Skills
Active Reading
One of the most effective ways to develop critical thinking skills is through active reading. Instead of passively absorbing information, active readers engage with the text by asking questions, making connections, and evaluating the author's arguments. For example, while revising or reading a book for their GEP examination preparation, students can ask themselves questions like "What is the main point of this paragraph?" or "How does this information relate to what I already know?"
Questioning
Asking questions is another powerful tool for stimulating critical thinking. Encourage your child to ask "why," "how," and "what if" questions to challenge their understanding and explore different perspectives. For instance, after solving a math problem, students can ask questions like "Why does this solution work?" or "What would happen if we used a different approach?" Such questions challenge students to think beyond surface-level information and explore different perspectives and possibilities.
Problem-Solving
Problem-solving activities can help students develop their logical reasoning and analytical skills. Encourage your child to approach problems systematically, break them down into smaller steps, and consider different solutions. For example, when tackling a GEP Math problem, students can experiment with methods like drawing diagrams, making lists, or working backwards rather than jumping straight into equations. By developing these problem-solving techniques, students enhance their analytical thinking—an invaluable asset in the GEP.
Debating
Debating provides an excellent opportunity for students to practice their argumentative skills and evaluate opposing viewpoints, which is particularly beneficial in GEP preparation. Encourage your child to participate in debates or discussions, both in school and at home. This practice of evaluating differing opinions builds their capacity to analyse information critically and strengthens their communication skills, both essential for success in the GEP.
Terry Chew Academy's Approach to Critical Thinking
At Terry Chew Academy, we view critical thinking as a cornerstone of educational success, especially for GEP preparation. By embedding critical thinking into all aspects of our curriculum, our students are challenged to engage deeply with material across subjects, cultivating their analytical skills and fostering a genuine love for learning.
Curriculum Integration
Critical thinking is integrated into all aspects of our curriculum, from language arts and mathematics to science and social studies. This means that students are constantly challenged to think critically in a variety of subjects during the GEP preparation process.
One key element of our critical thinking approach is our Math Olympiad training, where students engage with complex mathematical problems that promote logical reasoning and inventive solutions. This not only strengthens their math skills but also deepens their conceptual understanding. The focus here is not just on finding the right answers but on exploring different methods of problem-solving—an approach that serves as excellent training for the GEP examination and builds a resilient, adaptable mindset.
Personalised Guidance
As every student’s journey is unique, our teachers provide personalised guidance and support to help students develop their critical thinking skills at their own pace. Whether a student needs more support in breaking down complex problems or encouragement to delve deeper into abstract concepts, our tutors are there to provide the necessary guidance. This approach ensures that students not only grasp fundamental concepts but also build the confidence to tackle increasingly complex problems. This confidence-building process is crucial for students undergoing GEP preparation, equipping them with the skills and self-assurance needed to navigate the exam’s rigorous demands.
Terry Chew Academy: Your Partner in GEP Preparation
Choosing Terry Chew Academy means investing in a comprehensive and forward-thinking education that goes beyond standard exam preparation.
With our integrated curriculum, students are exposed to a multi-dimensional approach to learning that fosters critical thinking across disciplines. Our personalised guidance ensures that each child’s potential is maximised, with tutors providing customised support to help students grow at their own pace. This balanced approach—combining analytical thinking with personalised attention—prepares students not only for the GEP, but for the dynamic challenges they will encounter throughout their academic careers.
At Terry Chew Academy, we are dedicated to building independent thinkers who approach learning with curiosity and resilience. By choosing us, you’re providing your child with a solid foundation in critical thinking, equipping them not just for the GEP but for a successful future.
Citations
Tang, L. (2024, August 30). High-ability enrichment centres in Singapore see rising demand from parents and students. Channel News Asia.
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