Course Overview:
This course introduces students to 28 informal Logic fallacies along with the game of chess and logic puzzles.
Materials:
- Student book: The Art of Argument, Revised edition (Classic Academic Press)
- ISBN #: 9781600514500
- Chess sets: (provided)
- Logic games: (provided)
- Student binder: for notes/handouts
Course Details:
- Grades: 7-12
- Duration: 2 semesters (a full year)
Students will explore the principles of logical reasoning using The Art of Deduction with a focus on identifying and applying 28 informal fallacies in real-world contexts. Alongside studying the prepared logic text, students will learn and practice chess and logic games to strengthen strategic thinking, planning, and analytical skills.
The course emphasizes 1/1 and group discussion, partner collaboration, and hands-on learning through the use of puzzles, games, presentations, writing responses, and projects.
Course Objectives:
By the end of the course, students will:
- Identify and explain 28 informal fallacies
- Apply logical reasoning to arguments in media, writing, and discussions
- Construct clear, valid arguments
- Recognize manipulation and flawed reasoning in everyday life
- Develop strategic thinking through chess and various games
Differentiation (Grades 7–12):
- Grades 7–8: More guided practice, visuals, simplified examples, beginning group discussion, written responses
- Grades 9–10: Independent analysis, various discussion modalities, written responsesand argument writing
- Grades 11–12: Deeper philosophical discussion, written responses and complex argument writing
Weekly Assignment Types:
- Partner discussions
- Group discussion
- Logic puzzles
- Question sets from text
- Presentations and writing
- Hands-on creative projects
Optional Enrichment:
- Chess tournament
- Logic competition games
- Cross-curricular links (history, literature, media studies)