When thesis becomes the controlling principle in composition as opposed to purpose, the individual can develop the reasoning that takes place structuring to thesis. Argument can be developed in terms of the thesis as well as each of the main points that are used to support that thesis. Reasoning can also be used to analyze topics, state problems, find main issues, relate ideas to each other, and to organize the speech. There are a number of patterns of critical thinking that can take place when students structure to a thesis. Students can choose to structure logically in terms of sign or cause and effect.
Students can choose to structure topically in terms of classification.
Students can choose to structure sequentially in terms of time, space, or narrative. Students can choose to structure analogically in terms of comparison or contrast. These choices of structuring discourse gives the individual practice in reasoning with seemingly natural, inherent, capability. These are not artificial structural and reasoning activities to human invention. The very act of selecting a thesis to which the discourse can be structured and supported is in itself an important critical thinking activity.