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Critical Thinking – Creative Problem Solving

Critical Thinking · Level 3 · Worksheet 4 of 5 · CCSS: SL.3.1d, W.3.4 · Practice Set 3

Level 3 ⭐⭐⭐

1 Think of Many Uses

💡 How many different uses can you think of for each object? Be creative!

2 Solve the Problem

🛠️ Read each problem. Think of a creative solution!

Problem	Your Solution
You're camping and your flashlight batteries just died. What can you do?
Your team must keep a balloon from touching the floor for two minutes using only your elbows. What's your plan?
Your class needs to design a container that keeps an ice cube from melting for one hour. What's your strategy?

3 What If?

🌈 Use your imagination! What would really happen?

"What If" Question	What might happen?
What if trees could grow toys instead of fruit?
What if you could pause time for one minute a day?
What if every person had their own personal cloud?
What if socks never came in pairs?

4 Invent Something New

🚀 Invent something that would make life easier or more fun. Describe it!

My invention is called:

What it does:

How it works:

Why people would want it:

Draw your invention:

4 Explain Your Reasoning (SBA Practice)

On the state test, you need to explain HOW you think, not just WHAT you think. Practice explaining your reasoning clearly.

Question: Describe a problem from real life that is similar to one you solved on this page. Explain what strategy you would use and why.

My answer:

How I figured it out (explain step by step):

How I know my answer makes sense:

+ Bonus Thinking Practice

Use this quick challenge for Set 3.

Riddle: I have keys but no locks. What am I?

Explain how you knew.