Course Description
How do we know what is true? This central question is not just a guiding component in the study of logic, but also in our daily lives.
This intro to logical reasoning course will focus on developing a student’s skill in reasoning, logic, and critical thinking through puzzles, problem solving, and exposure to various higher-level mathematical concepts.
Students will begin by learning about the differences between inductive, deductive, and abductive reasoning and how each method is used in both mathematics and in the real world.
Moving into deeper exploration, students will search for patterns in data and use induction to progress from specific cases to general rules in puzzles, logic problems, algebraic and geometric concepts, patterns, and games. Students will learn to deduce valid and sound conclusions from statements, as well as explore problems and strategies such as symbolic logic, truth tables, axiomatic systems, matrix logic problems, syllogisms, and Venn diagrams. Students will also study logical fallacies and learn how to develop convincing arguments.
Course Structure
This 16-week, or one semester, course will meet each week for a 1-hr live lesson. Daily assignments will be posted weekly, and students will be expected to have completed the week’s materials before the live class session.
Course Materials
A teacher-created student workbook (.pdf) will be provided to students. It is strongly suggested that students print either the workbook out in its entirety and put it in a binder or spiral bind – or – students may print out each page as necessary as each lesson requires.
Because this course has several math/problem solving components such that formatting is difficult to convey digitally, completing student worksheets on a computer or smartphone is not recommended.
Physical worksheets may be scanned through an app like Cam Scanner and saved as .pdfs in order to turn in.
Who should enroll?
This course is for advanced 7th grade through 9th grade students who are curious about thinking and enjoy puzzles, reasoning, patterns, problem solving, and/or students who have an interest in deeper applications of math. Students will be graded on homework, projects, quizzes, and tests. Ninth grade students can complete additional work to earn 0.5 elective math credit.
Technology Requirements
- High-speed, broadband Internet
- Webcam, sound card, and microphone (for live sessions)
- Streaming video capabilities to watch recorded lectures
- Scanner or smartphone for submitting tests and homework
Evaluation and Feedback
Students are expected to attend the live class sessions, and participation and questions are welcomed! Outside of class times, students may contact the teacher using Canvas messages.
Communication
Parents are encouraged to monitor grades in Canvas and may contact me through Canvas message any time. It is important to have clear communication so parents and teachers can work together to provide the best learning experience for the student.
Course Outline
- Week 1: Intro, Importance of Logic
- Week 2: Inductive & Deductive Reasoning
- Week 3: Pattern-Based Formulas
- Week 4: Rule-Based Formulas
- Week 5: Syllogisms & Venn Diagrams
- Week 6: Analyzing Arguments for Validity
- Week 7: Symbolic Logic
- Week 8: Truth Tables
- Week 9: Symbolic Arguments
- Week 10: Proofs
- Week 11: Patterns & Limits
- Week 12: Logical Fallacies
- Week 13: Constructing an Argument
- Week 14: Abductive Reasoning
- Week 15: Game Theory & Infinity
- Week 16: The Human Mind Vs. A.I.
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