Inductive vs Deductive Reasoning Practice

Review the lesson for Inductive vs Deductive Reasoning Help.

Inductive vs Deductive Reasoning Practice

Separate the Arguments Practice

Directions: Read the following short arguments carefully. First, separate the arguments into claims by putting a slash mark (/) between each claim. Then, identify the claim that represents the conclusion in each deductive argument by underlining that claim.

Example:

1. The weather report is calling for blizzard conditions. Driving could be hazardous. Stay here tonight and after the road is plowed, you can head back to college.
2. That movie has had horrible reviews. My sister saw it and said it was boring and her friend spotted three mistakes. Pick a different movie. I am sure we can find something better.
3. Start on your homework now. You will get done earlier and still have time to watch the movie with us. It shouldn't take too long and your father can help you if you need it.
4. You spend too much time playing video games. You are not getting enough sleep and your grades are slipping. I think you need to change your daily routine. Make a list of your priorities. If you don't, I think you're headed for big trouble.

Premises

For each argument in items 1-4, identify whether the premises work as separate support, chain support, or both.

Answers

Separate the Arguments

Before you check your answers, use the "because" test to see if you've correctly identified the conclusion.

1. The weather report is calling for blizzard conditions. / Driving could be hazardous. / Stay here tonight / and after the road is plowed, you can head back to college.
2. That movie has had horrible reviews. / My sister saw it and said it was boring / and her friend spotted three mistakes. / Pick a different movie. / I am sure we can find something better.
3. Start on your homework now. / You will get done earlier / and still have time to watch the movie with us. / It shouldn't take too long / and your father can help you if you need it.
4. You spend too much time playing video games. / You are not getting enough sleep / and your grades are slipping. / I think you need to change your daily routine. / Make a list of your priorities. / If you don't, I think you're headed for big trouble.

Premises

1. Separate. Three separate premises support the conclusion.
2. Separate and chain. "horrible reviews", "boring" and "three mistakes" are three separate claims that support the premise, "I am sure we can find something better". That premise, in turn, supports the conclusion.
3. Chain. The premises "get done earlier", "have time to watch the movie", "shouldn't take too long" and "your father can help" all support the conclusion.
4. Separate. Three separate premises support the conclusion.