Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills
In this Investigative Essay, you will address a case study (NURSING) that intentionally does not give you
enough detail for you to quickly resolve the issue. Given the gaps in information provided to you, you will
identify what you know, what you don’t know, and what questions you need to ask as you start your
investigation of the facts of the case. So, what is the problem that resulted from the incident, and why might
there be different interpretations of the facts? The process is designed to encourage clear thinking and to
help you to identify potential cognitive traps that could derail well-reasoned conclusions.
Once you have completed your analysis of the incident, the next step is to analyze alternative viewpoints,
conclusions, and solutions.
Your work will be evaluated using the competencies listed below.
1.1: Organize document or presentation clearly in a manner that promotes understanding and meets the
requirements of the assignment.
1.2: Develop coherent paragraphs or points so that each is internally unified and so that each functions as
part of the whole document or presentation.
1.4: Tailor communications to the audience.
1.5: Use sentence structure appropriate to the task, message and audience.
1.6: Follow conventions of Standard Written English.
2.1: Identify and clearly explain the issue, question, or problem under critical consideration.
2.2: Locate and access sufficient information to investigate the issue or problem.
2.4: Consider and analyze information in context to the issue or problem.
2.5: Develop well-reasoned ideas, conclusions or decisions, checking them against relevant criteria and
benchmarks.
Your final paper should be no more than 5 double-spaced pages, excluding the cover page and References
page(s). Please organize your paper in accordance with your preparatory steps, using these subheadings:
Introduction
Explanation of the Issue
Analysis of the Information
Consideration of alternative viewpoints and conclusions
Conclusions and Recommendations
Here are some tips for success:
Consider outside sources if they inform your case. However, stay on task.
Use APA style for “in text” and reference citations. At this point, your citations should be error-free.
Consider these Best Practices for a paper:
An effective introduction that grabs the reader’s attention and sets the tone and direction for the rest of the
paper;
Supporting paragraphs that move the reader from the general introduction to the more specific aspects of
your analysis;
Body paragraphs that provide support; and,
A conclusion that leads to a natural close to what you have presented in your paper.