Critical Reading as Reasoning
Critical Reading as Reasoning
Critical reading as reasoning refers to the process of actively analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating a text to
understand its meaning beyond the surface level. It involves logical thinking, questioning, and making
connections between ideas to determine the validity and strength of the author’s arguments.
Key Aspects of Critical Reading as Reasoning:
1. Analyzing the Text
o Readers examine the structure of the argument, the main ideas, and the supporting details.
o Example: Identifying whether the author provides logical reasoning or relies on emotional
appeals.
2. Identifying Assumptions and Bias
o Critical readers question the underlying assumptions in a text and recognize any bias in the
argument.
o Example: An article advocating for a specific policy may be biased if it only presents one side
of the issue.
3. Evaluating Evidence and Logic
o Readers assess whether the claims are supported by strong evidence or if they contain logical
fallacies.
o Example: A well-reasoned argument will provide credible data, expert opinions, and logical
connections.
4. Drawing Inferences and Making Judgments
o Readers use context clues and prior knowledge to infer meanings and judge the credibility of
the text.
o Example: If a news report omits key facts, a critical reader may question its reliability.
5. Formulating a Response
o After analyzing the text, readers form their own opinions, agree or disagree with the argument,
and provide reasons for their stance.
o Example: Writing an evaluative statement that explains why an argument is strong or weak.
Why Is Critical Reading as Reasoning Important?
• It helps readers distinguish between fact and opinion.
• It encourages deeper comprehension and thoughtful analysis.
• It improves decision-making by allowing readers to assess information critically.
• It promotes independent thinking and informed judgment.
Critical Reading as Formulating Evaluative Statements
Critical reading as formulating evaluative statements involves analyzing a text and making judgments about its
clarity, accuracy, logic, and effectiveness. Evaluative statements express a reader’s informed opinion, supported
by reasoning and evidence from the text. This process helps readers assess the strengths and weaknesses of an
argument, identify biases, and determine the credibility of a source.
Key Aspects of Formulating Evaluative Statements:
1. Assessing the Strength of Arguments
o Evaluative statements judge whether an argument is strong, logical, and well-supported.
o Example: "The author's argument is well-structured and supported by credible evidence,
making it persuasive."
2. Evaluating the Use of Evidence
o Readers determine if the evidence is relevant, sufficient, and from reliable sources.
o Example: "While the author presents statistical data, the lack of expert opinions weakens the
argument."
3. Identifying Bias and Objectivity
o Readers examine whether the author presents a balanced perspective or favors one side.
o Example: "The text is biased because it only presents positive aspects of the issue and ignores
counterarguments."
4. Analyzing Logical Reasoning
o Evaluative statements assess whether the argument follows a clear, logical progression.
o Example: "The argument is inconsistent because the conclusion does not align with the
evidence provided."
5. Judging the Overall Impact of the Text
o Readers reflect on how effectively the text conveys its message and influences the audience.
o Example: "The article successfully raises awareness about the issue, but it lacks concrete
solutions."
Importance of Formulating Evaluative Statements in Critical Reading:
• Encourages deeper understanding and engagement with the text.
• Develops reasoning and analytical skills.
• Helps readers distinguish between strong and weak arguments.
• Promotes independent thinking and informed decision-making.