Critical Thinking Skills Development: An Analysis of Mathematics Curriculum 2006 (Grade-wise)

The current qualitative study was conducted to analyze the mathematics curriculum across grade levels for students’ critical thinking skills development. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the document with the facilitation of NVivo software. As per the analysis, Grades I-III cover core math concepts at an introductory level using real-life examples presented concretely. Then grades IV-VIII revisit these same ideas with more depth and add logical reasoning. Finally (IX-X) and higher secondary (XI-XII) levels aim to build a rigorous conceptual understanding of complex mathematical topics like calculus, vectors, and complex numbers as well as non-routine problem-solving capacity utilizing proof techniques and technology tools like MAPLE software. The research results show that the curriculum is indeed effective for 21st-century skills development such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and technological literacy. Students who complete this systematic program will be prepared for advanced studies or careers that require mathematical proficiency.