Beginners (6-7 years old): At the beginner level, critical thinking focuses on evaluating basic information and making simple inferences. Players use the simplest roles (civilian, werewolf, seer) so they can easily track who says what and how they behave. The teacher or a more experienced player can guide attention with questions such as, “Why do you think that player is a werewolf?” or “What did you notice about their behaviour?” This helps children practice making basic observations, comparing information, and drawing simple conclusions.
Advanced learners (8-9 years old): At the advanced level, critical thinking appears in more complex situations and faster decision-making. Players encounter additional roles (e.g., witch, hunter) and more complex dynamics, requiring analysis of multiple pieces of information and logical reasoning. They must consciously decide when to tell the truth and when to mislead others, while continuously evaluating the statements and behaviour of their peers.
Experts (9–10 years old): At the expert level, critical thinking emerges as complex strategic planning and flexible, real-time evaluation. Players use combinations of advanced roles (e.g., jester, custom house rules), think several steps ahead, and adjust their strategies continuously based on the unfolding game. They independently analyse situations, draw conclusions, and plan their communication deliberately, while managing uncertainty and unexpected twists.
