Critical reading
What does it mean to read critically?
Reading carefully, questioning ideas, and analysing meaning.
Identify which is a claim: (A) AI will eliminate millions of jobs. (B) The World Economic Forum predicts 85 million jobs may be displaced by 2025.
A
What are the three possible stances when responding to a claim?
Full support, partial support, rejection.
Give one example of a transition signal used to add information.
In addition, Moreover, Also.
Name two types of information found in academic texts.
Definitions, examples, explanations, claims, counter-arguments, evidence.
What is a counter-argument?
An opposing viewpoint that challenges a claim.
What are the three main parts of a critical response paragraph?
Introduction, response (with reasons/examples), conclusion.
What is a topic sentence?
The opening sentence of a paragraph that clearly states the main idea.
What is reasonable scepticism in academic reading?
Questioning claims while staying open to evidence and new ideas.
Give one question you might ask to show scepticism about the claim: “Eating chocolate improves brain function.”
What research supports this? OR Does it apply to all people?
Why is cautious/hedging language important in academic writing?
It avoids absolute claims, shows awareness of complexity, and builds credibility.
Rewrite the strong claim “Technology distracts students in class” into a cautious version.
Technology may distract some students in class, particularly when notifications are enabled.
What is the main difference between an example and evidence?
Example illustrates an idea; evidence supports/proves a claim with data/research.
Explain why claims are evaluated more carefully than definitions or explanations.
Because claims represent the writer’s main argument and need strong evidence to be convincing.
According to the booklet, what makes rejecting a claim more challenging than supporting it?
It requires higher-level thinking, presenting alternative views, and stronger reasoning with examples.
Identify one phrase that can be used to reject a writer’s claim politely.
e.g., This idea has some problems because... OR There are compelling reasons to question this claim.