Sample Items for Measuring Thinking Attributes

The sample “agree-disagree” style items on this page illustrate the types of statements that could appear on a college or adult level measure of critical thinking habits of mind. The topics and reading levels of statements used on attribute assessments intended for use with children or with professional groups are aligned with the common interests and the educational levels of those populations.

Sample Items for Measuring Thinking Attributes

Consider the following statements about beliefs, opinions, values, and preferences. Decide whether you agree or disagree with each one. Remember that since you are being asked about your own beliefs, opinions, values, and preferences, there really is no “right” or “wrong” response. The answer is whatever you say it is for you.

Use the following choices to express your view.
6 = Agree Strongly
5 = Agree
4 = Agree Marginally
3 = Disagree Marginally
2 = Disagree
1 = Disagree Strongly

1. People say I ask challenging questions.

2. I won’t let what scientists might say weaken my core beliefs.

3. I prefer jobs where the supervisor says exactly what to do, and exactly when and how to do it.

4. It’s important to me to figure out what people really mean by what they say.

5. Don’t kid yourself, changing your mind is a sign of weakness.

6. I always do better in jobs where I’m expected to think things out for myself.

7. I hate it when people just shout their opinions without letting others give their views too.

8. There is never any good reason for believing one thing rather than another.

9. Being organized about your plans and projects is way over-rated.

10. Don’t try to think ahead because it is impossible to know exactly what the future holds.

How can I learn more about critical thinking?

For more information on critical thinking and the relationship between critical thinking skills and strong positive critical thinking habits of mind download a free copy of “Critical Thinking: What It Is and Why it Counts“ by Dr. Peter Facione.

How can I develop my critical thinking?

To build your critical thinking skills and positive critical thinking habits of mind, consider Think Critically, Facione & Gittens, published by Pearson Education. Drs. Facione and Gittens, along with the research team at Measured Reasons LLC, developed many of the tests offered by Insight Assessment.

Do you have sample critical thinking skills questions?

Click here for sample critical thinking skills questions.

Where can I find more sample mindset items?

Download our app, Critical Thinking Insight, free at your app store. Get started with the free sample reasoning skills questions and reasoning mindset items. Then challenge yourself with the other tools included in the app for your self-evaluation and personal development.