This ongoing course teaches young people how to become critical thinkers and effective decision makers. Through engaging activities and 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 children 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 children 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 01/28 - 02/03: Your friend wants to copy your homework.
Week of 02/04 - 02/10: You wake up with a sickness that is contagious. Tonight, your friend is having a birthday party at a trampoline park.
Week of 02/11 - 02/17: Should animals be kept in zoos?
Week of 02/18 - 02/24: Your teacher is absent today, and so your class has a substitute teacher. Many students in your class are being disrespectful to the substitute teacher. 
Week of 02/25 - 03/02: Should children be allowed to have unlimited screen time?
Week of 03/03 - 03/09: Your friend tells you they are going to run away from home. They beg you not to tell anyone because it’s just a secret between you and them.
Week of 03/10 - 03/16: Should kids be allowed to have pets?
Week of 03/17 - 03/23: You see someone being bullied at school.
Week of 03/24 - 03/30: Should people (ages 16-50) be required to volunteer in their community?
Week of 03/31 - 04/06: You want to play on your school’s sports team. You also really want to act in your school’s play. The practices take place at the same time. 
Week of 04/07 - 04/13: You have to choose between buying a toy you really want or saving for a birthday present for your best friend.
Week of 04/14 - 04/20: You find a stray puppy in your neighborhood.
Week of 04/21 - 04/27: Someone you know wants to give you a hug. You don’t particularly like giving hugs.
Week of 04/28 - 05/04: You accidentally break a flower vase at a friend’s house.
Week of 05/05 - 05/11: Your grown-up told you that you are responsible for packing your school lunch. You see a sandwich, an apple, and a giant bag of candy sitting on the counter.
Week of 05/12 - 05/18: If you were stranded on a desert island, what 3 things would you want with you?
Week of 05/19 - 05/25: Should homework be banned?
Week of 05/26 - 06/01: NO CLASS THIS WEEK - Miss Melanie is moving this week! 
Week of 06/02 - 06/08: You find out that your friend is being bullied, but they don’t want you to tell anyone.
Week of 06/09 - 06/15: Should students (ages 6-12) be allowed to have cellphones during the school day?
Week of 06/16 - 06/22: You find a wallet with money inside at the park. There is no form of ID inside.
Week of 06/23 - 06/29: Should kids have a bedtime?
Week of 06/30 - 07/06: You have to choose between trying a new food or sticking to a food you know you like.
Week of 07/07 - 07/13: Should schools require dress codes?
Week of 07/14 - 07/20: If you could change one thing about your school, what would it be?