Formulation of the Problem

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CHAPTER II THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

In order to sharpen the theoretical framework of this study, this chapter is devoted to review some relevant theories and studies concerning with some references about the concept of critical thinking ability and the concept of reading comprehension skills. In this chapter also reveals some previous related studies that have been done by other researchers as well as the hypotheses of the research.

A. Concept of Critical Thinking

1. Definition of Critical Thinking

Critical thinking can be defined from multiple perspectives such as philosophical, psychological and educational. Critical thinking is “the ability to identify and analyze problems as well as seek and evaluate relevant information in order to reach an appropriate conclusion”. 1 Therefore, before dragging a conclusion a critical thinker should identify the information from the issue so that they can analyze and make a good conclusion from the issue. Freely and Steinberg describe critical thinking as “the ability to analyze, criticize, and advocate ideas; to reason inductively and deductively; and to reach factual or judgmental conclusions based on sound inferences drawn from unambiguous statements of knowledge or belief”. 2 In line with Freely and Steinberg opinion, Paul and Elder define critical thinking as “the art of analyzing and evaluating thinking with a view to improving it”. 3 Meanwhile, Ennis points out that critical thinking is thinking logically, reasonably and reflectively in order to decide what to believe and what to do. Another definition was given by Washburn, he claims that critical thinking relates 1 Watson and Glaser, The Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal W-GCTA, London: Pearson Education Ltd., 2012, p. 11. 2 Austin J. Freeley and David L. Steinberg, Argumentation and Debate: Critical Thinking for Reasoned Decision Making, London: Wadsworth Cengage Learning, 2007, 12 th ed., p. 2. 3 Paul, R. W. Elder, L., The Miniature Guide to Critical thinking: Concept and Tool, Foundation for Critical Thinking Press, 5 th ed., 2008, p. 2.