Curriculum Summary
| Module | Content Focus | Learner Actions |
| 1. Organise information | Understanding types and forms of information | Identify relevant information; classify and organise data; represent information in structured formats |
| 2. Process information | Applying logical operations | Use given rules; perform calculations where required; follow procedures; make valid deductions |
| 3. Analyse data | Interpreting quantitative and qualitative information | Read tables, charts, graphs; recognise patterns and trends; make comparisons; derive meaning from data |
| 4. Consider wider problems | Applying solutions in broader contexts | Evaluate constraints; adapt methods to new situations; explore consequences of changes; integrate multiple information sources |
| 5. Evaluate & use evidence | Judging quality and relevance of evidence | Assess reliability and relevance; compare evidence sources; select evidence to support or refute claims |
| 6. Analyse reasoning | Understanding structure of arguments | Identify conclusions, premises and assumptions; distinguish claims from supporting evidence; recognise logical links |
| 7. Evaluate reasoning | Judging strength and validity of reasoning | Evaluate adequacy of arguments; spot flaws or strong inference; determine whether conclusions are justified |
| 8. Construct reasoning | Formulating clear and logical arguments | Build coherent chains of reasoning; support conclusions with appropriate justification; communicate reasoning precisely |
Notes:
• All modules are compulsory content for both AS and A Level.
• The depth and complexity expected increases from AS Level to full A Level.
• Learners practise these skills in contexts that mimic real-world problem solving and critical dialogue.
Assessment Overview
The Thinking Skills qualification is assessed exclusively through external written examinations. There is no coursework/practical assessment.
| Assessment Item | Paper 1 – Problem Solving | Paper 2 – Critical Thinking | Paper 3 – Problem Analysis & Solution | Paper 4 – Applied Reasoning |
| Duration | 1h 30m | 1h 45m | 2h 00m | 1h 45m |
| Marks | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 |
| Assessment Focus | Problem Solving tasks across Modules 1–4 | Critical Thinking tasks across Modules 5–8 | Extended Problem Solving | Integrated Reasoning |
| AS Level Weighting | 50% | 50% | – | – |
| A Level Weighting | 25% | 25% | 25% | 25% |
Key points:
• AS Level candidates take Papers 1 and 2 only (covering core problem solving and critical thinking).
• A Level candidates take all four papers.
• All papers assess a combination of module skills in context-based questions.• Papers 3 and 4 at A Level involve more extended and complex tasks that require integration of multiple skills from earlier modules.
Cambridge Official AS & A Level Thinking Skills 9694 syllabus.pdf