The Effect of Critical Based Instruction on Student Achievement in Biology Course Environment Unit Achievement Test Results

The aim of this study is to determine the effects of sample critical thinking based biology unit about environmental problems on student achievement. The unit was prepared and implemented along with the theoretical framework reviewed from literature and by using activities having potential to support critical thinking. To determine the effect of the sample unit an experimental design was set with an experimental group where sample unit was instructed and a control group where the course-book followed. The comparison of the pre and post unit achievement tests indicated that the average test scores of both groups were increased significantly. Average post-test score of the experimental group was significantly higher than the control group. The effect size was strong with Cohen (d) coefficient calculated as 1,809059. Student interviews also support the findings. It was concluded that the sample unit and similar plans have potential to support student comprehension and unit achievement scores.