Which activity is most likely to build critical thinking skills for 5th grade social studies students?

Creating a brochure to entice tourists to visit a nation is an activity that actively engages 5th grade social studies students in critical thinking. This task requires students to apply their understanding of the country's culture, geography, history, and attractions in a way that is persuasive and informative. In the process, they must analyze the features that would appeal to potential visitors, evaluate their importance, and synthesize information to create a coherent and appealing presentation.

Furthermore, this activity encourages students to consider different perspectives – such as what tourists might find interesting or valuable – and fosters creativity as they design and format the brochure. It challenges them to make decisions about what information to include and how to present it effectively, all of which are essential components of critical thinking.

In contrast, options like taking multiple-choice quizzes and memorizing facts do not provide the same level of analytical engagement and creativity. Similarly, listening to a lecture often positions students as passive recipients of information rather than active participants in the learning process. Thus, the brochure creation stands out as a dynamic exercise that promotes higher-order thinking skills.