Skip to content

Future Readiness Project: Critical Thinking Artifact Examples

Critical Thinking — Think deeper. Make better decisions.

Critical Thinking involves analyzing information, evaluating evidence, questioning assumptions, solving problems, and making thoughtful, informed decisions.

Character

In-School/Academic Artifact Examples

Artifact Example

How it Demonstrates Critical Thinking

Research paper evaluating multiple sources

Analyzing evidence and drawing conclusions

Math problem showing multiple solution strategies

Evaluating approaches to solve a problem

Science experiment or lab analysis

Interpreting data and evaluating results

Historical document analysis

Examining evidence and considering perspectives

Debate preparation materials

Evaluating arguments and supporting claims

Literary analysis essay

Interpreting information and drawing conclusions

Engineering design challenge

Identifying problems, testing solutions, and improving designs

Case study or scenario analysis

Evaluating options and making informed decisions

Outside-of-School/Personal Artifacts

Artifact Example

How it Demonstrates Critical Thinking

Comparison of colleges or career pathways

Evaluating options and making informed choices

Personal budget or major purchase comparison

Analyzing costs, benefits, and priorities

Troubleshooting a mechanical or technical problem

Identifying causes and testing solutions

Planning transportation or travel

Evaluating alternatives and logistical challenges

Researching a community issue

Examining information and considering solutions

Evaluating job opportunities

Comparing responsibilities, pay, and future goals

Solving a problem at work

Assessing situations and choosing effective solutions

Making a difficult personal decision

Considering consequences and evaluating alternatives

The most important part of an artifact is not simply what you did, but what the experience demonstrates about your Critical Thinking.

For Example:

Artifact: Comparison chart of three colleges.

CollegeChart

Artifact: Comp. Chart

Reflection: "I researched three colleges and compared their costs, academic programs, and opportunities. Instead of choosing a school based only on its reputation, I evaluated which option would best support my goals. This demonstrates Critical Thinking because I used evidence to make an informed decision."