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A Newsletter Exploring Science 
page one page two
How to Write a Critical Analysis Paper
In order to write a critical analysis paper, you should learn two things: (1) how to think critically and (2) how to read critically. Critical thinking is defined as the "intellectually disciplined process of actively analyzing and evaluating information gathered from experience, observation, or communication as a guide to belief and action", according to the National Council for Excellence in Critical Thinking Instruction (Scriven, p1). In layman's terms, this means gathering available information regarding a topic, interpreting the relevancy of the sources, and processing the information into an intelligent way of thinking about it. Critical writing is not just about acquiring data, memorizing facts, or reiterating what someone else thinks, but is a learned skill that involves active participation by the individual to understand the topic well enough to write a balanced and well communicated paper. Why don't we think critically naturally? Because we have our own internal biases we tend to rely on partial information and are too busy to take the time to fully develop this necessary life skill. The ability to think critically is a skill that is required for everyone, because problem solving is needed throughout life. Essays and papers that you will write during your academic career will require you to perform the task of first thinking critically about a specific topic before you begin to write about it. Getting started on your critical analysis paper requires choosing a topic that is of interest to you. By reading your first paragraph, the reader will be able to determine right away your enthusiasm and knowledge of the topic. Even if you are required to write about a particular topic, there may be an angle that may be more relevant to your own experiences. For example, under the heading of biomedical research there are several subtopics that you can explore. You may write about a family member or friend who has been helped because of a particular scientific discovery, or the laws and regulations regarding animal research or recent medical advances that seem intriguing to you. As you start your research, another entirely different idea may present itself to you. As Deborah Knott, Director of University of Toronto, New College Writing Center states, "critical writing depends on critical reading." In other words, there is a certain way to process information you read in order to complete an essay or paper. When you begin to research a particular topic, you should skim through sources the first time around to get a feeling for the overall content. Then go back and reread the article, several times, to pick out details relevant to your subject matter. The key point is not to read for just information, but to look for unique ways of thinking in regard to your topic. Remember, you are not writing a book report. Instead, you are evaluating the information and making sure it accounts for the conclusions it contains. Afterwards, you are required to make your own judgments and create your own arguments based on the information that you have read. Research your topic by going to the library and using a variety of sources. Do not rely solely on the Internet for your references. In addition, only use Internet sources that are reputable. As you critically read each article, ask yourself the following questions:
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We Want to Hear From You! We want to include your stories, comments, or questions relating to animals in your classroom in upcoming editions of BioFocus. Please email stories to mismr@umich.edu. |