Required text:

7^th (2004) edition of Critical Thinking by Brooke Noel Moore and Richard Parker

Course description:

This course explores the process of reasoning. Whenever we make a judgment, we implicitly or explicitly carry out the process of judging or reasoning. In this class, we will explore this process, call attention to, and refine the conceptual tools that we employ in our reasoning. To this end, we will explore formal and informal fallacies, inductive and deductive reasoning, and clear writing practices.

Class requirements:

Students are expected to participate in class discussions as well as complete all assigned work. Each student must be respectful of the opinions and comments of his/her fellow students.

Grading:

Tests: There will be 3 multiple-choice tests based on the book and class lecture.

Papers: There will be two papers. Papers will be written in 12 point, Times New Roman, double-spaced or they will not be graded.

Pop quizzes: A pop quiz will be given each time a cell phone rings in class. If the instructor’s cell phone rings, extra credit will be given to the class. Pop quizzes will also be given if students do not participate.

Homework: Homework and in-class assignments will be given at the instructor’s preference.

Class participation: Students are expected to engage in any discussion that may take place in class.

Grade calculation:

Your grade will be calculated by the division of your total score by the total possible score in the class. Current Project Thrust policy states that you must get a C in this class or you will not be invited to continue with Project Thrust in the Fall.

Missed assignments:

For each class day after a due date is missed, the late assignment will be docked 10 points. Thus, if a student turns in a paper the class day after the due date, the maximum possible grade for that paper is %90. This does not apply for a missed test only if the student provides an excuse for the absence. The student must contact and schedule a retest with the instructor.

Plagiarism

Plagiarism will not be tolerated. The minimum punishment for plagiarism or cheating is an F grade on the test or paper.

Reading and test schedule

The instructor reserves the right to change any of the preceding or following with advanced notice.

6/29 Introduction

7/1 chapters 1 and 2

7/6 chapter 4 paper due

7/8 test

7/13 chapter 5

7/15 chapter 6

7/20 chapter 7

7/22 test

7/27 chapter 8

7/29 chapter 9

8/3 chapter 10 paper due