List of Benchmarks for Thinking and Reasoning |
| Standard 5. | Applies basic trouble-shooting and problem-solving techniques |
| | Level I (Grade K-2) |
| | 1. | Identifies simple problems and possible solutions (e.g., ways to make something work better) |
| | Level II (Grade 3-5) |
| | 1. | Identifies issues and problems in the school or community that one might help solve |
| | 2. | Analyzes the problems that have confronted people in the past in terms of the major goals and obstacles to those goals |
| | Level III (Grade 6-8) |
| | 1. | Generates alternative courses of action and compares the possible consequences of each alternative |
| | 2. | Selects the most appropriate strategy or alternative for solving a problem |
| | Level IV (Grade 9-12) |
| | 1. | Applies trouble shooting strategies to complex real world situations (e.g., workplace situations, family concerns) |
| | 2. | Understands that trouble-shooting almost anything may require many-step branching logic |
| | 3. | Trouble-shoots common mechanical and electrical systems, checking for possible causes of malfunction, and decides on that basis whether to make a change or get advice from an expert before proceeding |
| | 4. | Isolates a problem component in a schematic diagram and traces it to the cause of the problem |
| | 5. | Engages in problem finding and framing for personal situations and situations in the community |
| | 6. | Represents a problem accurately in terms of resources, constraints, and objectives |
| | 7. | Evaluates the effectiveness of problem-solving techniques |
| | 8. | Reframes problems when alternative solutions are exhausted |
| | 9. | Examines different options for solving problems of historical importance and determines why specific courses of action were taken |
| | 10. | Evaluates the feasibility of various solutions to problems; recommends and defends a solution |
| | 11. | Understands causes and critical issues of problems (e.g., personal, social, ethical considerations) |
