Critical Reasoning: The Assumption Based Family

Question 1

Assumption:

The argument depends on which of the following assumptions?

Answer 1

Goal:

Identify the unstated assumption.

Question 2

Evaluate:

Which of the following must be studied in order to evaluate the argument above?

Answer 2

Goal:

Identify a piece of information that would help to determine the soundness of the conclusion.

Question 3

Flaw:

Which of the following indicates a flaw in the reasoning above?

Answer 3

Goal:

Identify something illogical in the argument.

Question 4

Strengthen:

Which of the following, if true, provides the most support for the argument above?

Answer 4

Goal:

Strengthen the author’s conclusion.

Question 5

Weaken:

Which of the following, if true, most seriously weakens the argument?

Answer 5

Goal:

Attack the author’s conclusion.