Critical
Thinking
Spring
2002
Professor
Donohoe
1.
Learning Outcomes: By examining
format and style of argument, we will discover the characteristics good
arguments and bad arguments. We will
apply the concepts of logical thinking to arguments that we use and hear in
everyday life through analyzing newspaper articles and contemporary issues.
Each
of these learning outcomes is related to the mission of the Department. Specifically, these learning outcomes provide
for independent and critical thinking and the affirmation of the equal dignity
of each person.
2.
Requirements: The requirements
for the class are fivefold.
a)
attendance and participation 10%
b)
quizzes 15%
c)
midterm exam 25%
d)
written and oral assignments 25%
e)
final exam 25%
In
order to meet these requirements it will be necessary to attend class
regularly, to do the assigned reading, and to complete
the assignments. Assignments will not be accepted after their due date unless it has been
discussed with me before the due date.
3. Availability: I am available outside of class during office
hours, or by appointment. If there are
questions or problems do not hesitate to see me.
hours:
M,W, F
office:
Humanities 148
phone:
770-838-3012
e-mail:
jdonohoe@westga.edu
4. The following book is required for the course
and should be available in the bookstore.
Critical
Thinking by Parker and Moore (
January
7 Introduction. What is Critical Thinking?
9 Chapter 1
11 Chapter 1
14 Chapter 8
16 Chapter 8
18 Chapter 8 (1st
assignment due—newspaper)
21 MLK Day—no classes
23 Chapter 2
25 Chapter 2
28 Chapter 2
30 Chapter 3 (2nd
assignment due—writing)
1 Chapter 3
4 Chapter 3
6 Chapter 4 (quiz on
outlining arguments)
8 Chapter 4
11 On How to give an
argumentative speech
13 in-class
speeches—attendance required
15 in-class
speeches—attendance required
18 Chapter 5
20 Chapter 5
22 Chapter 5
25 Chapter 6 (quiz on slants
and fallacies)
27 Chapter 6
1 Chapter 6
4 Chapter 6
6 Midterm Exam
8 Chapter 7
11 Chapter 7
13 Chapter 7 (3rd
assignment due—newspaper)
15 Chapter 9
18-22 Spring Break—no classes
25 Chapter 9
27 in-class speeches—attendance
required
29 in-class
speeches—attendance required
1 Chapter 9
3 Chapter 9
5 Chapter 9
8 Chapter 10
10 Chapter 10
12 Chapter 10
15 Chapter 10 (4th
assignment due—writing)
17 Chapter 10
19 Chapter 11
22 Chapter 11
24 Chapter 11 (quiz on
deductive proofs)
26 Chapter 11
29 Chapter 11
Final exam will be
scheduled during finals week.