How to build critical thinking skills through science? Tips from one of the leading schools in Kanakapura

"The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing." - Albert Einstein

Critical thinking helps students make better decisions, solve problems, and understand the world in a deeper way. It is not about knowing all the answers - it is about learning how to ask the right questions and finding answers through careful thought.

Science is one of the best subjects for developing this skill. It allows students to observe, question, test ideas, and reflect on results. In the leading schools in Kanakpura, such as Podar International School, science classes help students build these thinking abilities every day.

Here, we explore how science helps develop critical thinking, along with some simple tips students can follow.

1. Curiosity leads to questions

Science begins with curiosity. When students ask questions such as "Why does it rain?" or "How does electricity work?", they start thinking more deeply. These questions encourage them to explore the world and look for answers.

In science lessons, students are often asked to observe something and ask questions about it. Teachers guide them to find answers through reading, watching experiments, or doing research. This kind of learning builds strong thinking habits.

Tip for students: Write down any "why" or "how" questions that come to mind during the day. Try to answer one every week using books, videos, or by asking a teacher.

2. Learning by doing

Science is not only about reading facts - it is also about trying things out. Experiments help students test ideas and learn from the results. Sometimes, things go wrong. That's okay. Mistakes help students figure out what works and what doesn't.

For example, students might try to make a homemade lemon battery to light up a small LED bulb. If the bulb doesn't glow, they ask questions - Did they connect the wires correctly? Were the lemons fresh enough? Was the metal used the right kind? By going back, checking each step, and adjusting their setup, they slowly learn what works and what doesn't. This process builds patience and sharpens their thinking.

Tip for students: Don't worry if your experiment fails. Ask, "What did I learn from this?" and try a new method.

3. Understanding and using data

Science involves numbers, charts, graphs, and results. Learning to understand this data helps students think logically and avoid guessing. They start to rely on evidence instead of opinions.

For instance, when doing a science project, students collect information and look for patterns. They might notice that a plant grows faster in sunlight than in shade. From that, they draw a conclusion. This process trains their brain to look at facts carefully.

Tip for students: When you see a graph or table, ask yourself: "What is this trying to show?" and "What is the main message in the data?"

4. Working in groups

In many science lessons, students work in teams. This teaches them how to share ideas, listen to others, and discuss different opinions. Working with others also helps them see that there are many ways to solve the same problem.

One student might suggest testing something one way, while another might have a different idea. They have to agree on a method, carry it out, and talk about what happened. This teamwork builds communication skills and helps students think from more than one point of view.

Working in a group also builds curiosity. When students hear questions or ideas from their classmates, they often start thinking about things they hadn't considered before. A simple "What if we try this?" can lead to new discoveries and a deeper interest in the topic. Curious thinking becomes a shared experience, not just a personal one.

Tip for students: When working in a group, listen carefully before speaking. Try to understand others' ideas and then add your thoughts.

Science is useful beyond the classroom. It helps students solve real problems in the world - such as pollution, clean water, or energy use. Many schools encourage students to work on projects that solve local problems using science.

For example, students might create a simple water filter using basic materials or find ways to reduce waste in school. These projects make learning meaningful and help students apply their thinking skills in real situations.

Tip for students: Choose project topics that connect to your life or community. Solving real problems makes you a stronger thinker.

Looking for information on trusted schools in Kanakapura that nurture curiosity?

At our school in Kanakapura, we prioritise developing critical thinking skills in students through hands-on science education. We have special innovation labs that help students explore and understand scientific topics through practical applications.

We provide:

Composite Science Lab: We have designed our science lab to encourage inquiry and experimentation in students. It has display and working models, specimens, and worktops, which help students apply their knowledge in real-life situations through experiments and research. Under the guidance of experienced teachers, they can engage in activities that enhance problem-solving and analytical thinking.

Innovation Lab: Our innovation lab takes scientific studies further, where we introduce students to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects through fun, engaging projects. Students work with robotic kits, virtual reality headsets, and 3D printers, which challenge them to think critically and creatively. Our lab is led by a highly qualified STEM faculty, where students get a space to collaborate, innovate, and develop problem-solving skills.

Math Lab: Our students explore mathematical concepts in our math lab through hands-on activities such as puzzles and games. The interactive approach of our lab helps students visualise and reason through math. This helps develop a deeper understanding and strengthen their critical thinking abilities.

To learn more about our school admission in Kanakapura, contact us at:

Email Address: admissions@podar.org
Telephone No: 7259323221