Here are some examples of discussion questions that encourage analytical thinking: Ask students to critique an author’s argument: Are the theories that Darwin presented in 'On the Origin of Species' anti-religion?

Ask a specific question, one that won't have an obvious right answer, likely in one of the following categories. Personal reflections : “What do you think about ___?” “How do you feel about ___?” Past experiences : “In the past, how have you responded when ___?” “Have you ever had an experience where ___?”

Questions like “ What did you want to be when you were a child ?” and “ What is your favorite food and why ?” are open ended questions examples where your conversational partner is encouraged to explain their answer or reason about the question. This makes for a bonding experience and shared discussion that validates the other person.

Ask yourself these questions: Do your results support or challenge existing theories? If they support existing theories, what new information do they contribute? If they challenge existing theories, why do you think that is? Are there any practical implications?