Lesson 9 of 20 · Problem Solving
PuzzleintermediateProblem Solving — Reflection
What You'll Learn
Key Concept: Reflection
Think About This
Your school board is debating a new policy related to reflection. Construct both the strongest argument FOR and AGAINST the policy. Which position is better supported, and why?
Thinking Steps
Frame the Question
Define the core question about reflection precisely. What assumptions are built into how it's framed?
Assess Evidence
What evidence exists? Rate each piece as strong, moderate, or weak. Note gaps.
Generate Hypotheses
Develop at least 3 possible explanations or solutions. Include one unconventional option.
Evaluate Systematically
Test each hypothesis against the evidence. What are the trade-offs? What are the risks?
Think Ahead
If your conclusion is correct, what are the second-order effects? What implications follow?
State Your Position
Present your conclusion with confidence level (%), key reasons, and what could prove you wrong.
Metacognitive Check
What biases might have influenced you? Did you use the right thinking framework? What would you research further?
Key Points
Understand reflection
Practice problem solving daily
Apply thinking skills to real-world situations
Key Vocabulary
Pre-mortem
Imagining a project has failed in order to identify risks before they happen
First Principles
Breaking a problem down to its most basic, proven truths
Inversion
Solving a problem by thinking about how to cause the opposite outcome
Systems Thinking
Understanding how parts interact within a larger whole
Why This Matters in Real Life
The ability to apply problem solving rigorously is what distinguishes competent professionals from exceptional ones in virtually every field.
Talk About It
Discuss these questions with a friend, parent, or classmate.
- 1Find a current event that illustrates reflection in action. What can we learn from it?
- 2What are the limitations of this thinking framework? When might it lead you astray?
- 3How would someone from a completely different background or culture approach this differently?
- 4Design a challenge or game that would help someone practice this skill.
Check Your Understanding
Question 1
1 of 3What is the main idea of reflection?
