This ongoing course teaches young people how to become critical thinkers and effective decision makers. Through thought-provoking discussions, students explore how to analyze situations, consider different perspectives, and evaluate evidence to make informed decisions. This course emphasizes how to think, not what to think, empowering students to develop their own unique problem-solving skills and decision-making processes.

Critical thinking is one of the most valuable cognitive skills because it allows us to use discipline and logical skills to solve problems. Mastering the art of decision making helps young people be more independent, responsible, and confident. It gives them a sense of control over their lives, reducing anxiety and promoting resilience. Being able to think independently allows young people to resist negative peer pressure, form their own opinions, and trust their own thinking when they are asked to do things they don’t want to do.

Class Layout:
Welcome/Introductions/Expectations
Overview of the Day’s Topic
Problem Solving Graphic Organizer (identify the problem, discuss possible solutions, discuss pros and cons, make an informed decision) 
Discussion/Sharing/Questions
Next Class Topic Announcement
See You Later! 

Topic Schedule:

Please note that the course topics will cycle through on a 25-week basis.
Week of 06/04 - 06/10: You witness a classmate cheating during an exam.
Week of 06/11 - 06/17: You find a wallet on the street containing a substantial amount of money and no identification. 
Week of 06/18 - 06/24: Your guardian will not allow you to see a movie that you really want to see. 
Week of 06/25 - 07/01: If you could change one thing about the education system, what would it be?
Week of 07/02 - 07/08: You come across a controversial social media post from someone you know. How do you approach discussing the issue with them respectfully?
Week of 07/09 - 07/15: Your best friend is in a toxic relationship but refuses to listen to your advice. How do you handle this situation?
Week of 07/16 - 07/22: You witness someone being bullied.
Week of 07/23 - 07/29: You have the power to solve one global issue. 
Week of 07/30 - 08/05: Your teacher blames you for something that isn’t your fault. 
Week of 08/06 - 08/12: Should students have to wear uniforms?
Week of 08/13 - 08/19: Your friend asks you to cover for them while they sneak out to attend a party without their parents' knowledge. 
Week of 08/20 - 08/26: You witness someone spreading false rumors about a friend. 
Week of 08/27 - 09/02: You receive a text message from an unknown number offering you a significant sum of money.
Week of 09/03 - 09/09: You are assigned to a group project, and one member consistently avoids contributing. 
Week of 09/10 - 09/16: You are presented with two job offers: one with a higher salary but less job satisfaction, and the other with a lower salary but a meaningful job. 
Week of 09/17 - 09/23: If you could create a new school subject, what would it be, and how would it benefit students?
Week of 09/24 - 09/30: Should homework be banned?
Week of 10/01 - 10/07: A family member gives you a gift for your birthday. You open it in front of them, and you realize that you already have this item.
Week of 10/08 - 10/14: You find out your favorite social media platform has been misusing users' personal information. What actions do you take, if any?
Week of 10/15 - 10/21: You find yourself in a social setting where people are engaging in risky behavior. 
Week of 10/22 - 10/28: You are given the power to enact one new law.
Week of 10/29 - 11/04: Your friend borrowed your favorite item and damaged it. 
Week of 11/05 - 11/11: You are with your friends, and one of them uses discriminatory language.
Week of 11/12 - 11/18: Another student in your class steals food from your lunch box for the 5th time this year.