Developing Critical Thinking Skills Through Content-Based Instruction In Efl Classes

Abstract

This article explores the development of critical thinking skills through Content-Based Instruction (CBI) in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classes. Critical thinking is an essential competence that enables learners to analyze information, evaluate evidence, identify assumptions, solve problems, and make logical decisions. The article examines how content-based learning can integrate language acquisition with intellectual development by engaging students in meaningful academic and real-life topics. Particular attention is paid to instructional strategies such as guided reading, group discussions, debates, problem-based learning, project work, and comparative analysis. These activities encourage learners to express opinions, support arguments with evidence, consider alternative perspectives, and draw reasoned conclusions in English. The article also highlights the importance of teacher guidance, appropriate learning materials, vocabulary support, and structured classroom tasks in helping students overcome linguistic difficulties while developing higher-order thinking skills. Furthermore, it discusses assessment methods that evaluate both language proficiency and the quality of students’ reasoning.

Keywords

Content-Based Instruction • critical thinking • EFL classes • English language teaching • higher-order thinking skills • language acquisition • analytical skills • problem-based learning • student-centered learning • communicative competence • learner autonomy • classroom interaction

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