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Publication Date
2026
Access Type
Open Access
Department
Social Sciences and Global Studies
Course Number
SOC 120
Context of Activity or Assignment
This assignment is a practice activity where students apply deductive and inductive reasoning. It involves formulating testable hypotheses using variables and deconstructing an argument into its premises and conclusion (deductive logic). It also requires analyzing specific observations to identify and articulate broader social patterns (inductive logic).
Purpose of Activity or Assignment
To help students practice deductive logic by formulating testable hypotheses and deconstructing arguments. To enable students to apply inductive logic by analyzing specific observations to identify and articulate broader social patterns.
Potential Pitfalls and Teaching Tips
Students should be reminded to clearly specify the direction of the relationship in their hypotheses by using terms like “increases,” “decreases,” “positively affects,” or “negatively affects”. Similarly, the variables should be phrased so they are compatible with being logically “increased,” “decreased,” “positively affected,” or “negatively affected."
Activity / Assignment Type
Problem Solving
Undergraduate Learning Outcome
ULO 1: Intellectual Skills
GE Area
Critical Thinking
Duration
60 Minutes
Final Deliverable
Other
Recommended Citation
Tezcan, Tolga, "Formulating Arguments: Deductive and Inductive Reasoning" (2026). Activities and Assignments Collection. 16.
https://digitalcommons.csumb.edu/teaching_all/16