Critical Reasoning: Strengthen u0026 Weaken Arguments Quiz Quiz

Challenge your analytical thinking with this quiz on strengthening and weakening arguments, crafted to boost your critical reasoning skills. Assess your ability to identify assumptions, spot logical flaws, and evaluate evidence within everyday scenarios.

1. Strengthening a Recommendation

   A school recommends introducing daily reading hours to improve student literacy. Which of the following, if true, most strengthens this recommendation?

   1. Many teachers prefer teaching math over reading.
   2. Some students dislike reading and may not participate.
   3. Studies show that students who read daily improve their reading skills faster.
   4. The school library is closed on weekends.

   Explanation: Citing studies that show daily reading improves literacy directly supports the recommendation, making it more convincing. Option B is irrelevant since teacher preferences do not affect the argument about reading benefits. Option C highlights a potential challenge but does not support the recommendation. Option D is about library availability but does not address the effectiveness of the program.

2. Weakening an Argument about Exercise

   An article claims that jogging every morning ensures better health for everyone. Which statement most weakens this argument?

   1. Jogging requires comfortable shoes.
   2. Some individuals with joint problems may suffer injuries from jogging.
   3. Many people enjoy jogging with friends.
   4. Morning weather can be unpredictable.

   Explanation: This option undermines the claim that jogging is universally beneficial by pointing out exceptions, specifically those at risk of injury. The necessity of shoes (B) and unpredictable weather (C) are minor inconveniences rather than undermining the core health claim. Enjoyment with friends (D) does not address health effects and thus does not weaken the argument.

3. Evaluating an Assumption

   A town plans to reduce car pollution by encouraging biking to work. Which option, if true, best strengthens the town's proposal?

   1. Some residents have never learned to ride a bicycle.
   2. There are bicycle repair shops in the nearby city.
   3. Most workplaces in town offer secure bike parking facilities.
   4. Bikes are available for rent in the next town.

   Explanation: Having secure bike parking makes biking a more practical choice, directly supporting the proposal's feasibility. Option B notes a limitation for some residents but does not support the proposal. Renting bikes in another town (C) and repair shops in another city (D) are not as relevant to making biking easier within the town.

4. Identifying a Flaw in a Causal Argument

   A company claims that providing free coffee increased employee productivity because output rose after coffee machines were installed. Which choice weakens this claim the most?

   1. Employees socialize at the coffee machines.
   2. A new management team also started during the same period.
   3. The coffee machines occasionally break down.
   4. Some employees prefer tea over coffee.

   Explanation: The introduction of new management is a rival explanation for the increase in productivity, casting doubt on coffee as the main cause. Preferences for tea (B) and socialization (D) don't directly challenge the causal link. Occasional breakdowns (C) don't address the cause of increased productivity.

5. Using Evidence to Strengthen an Explanation

   A psychologist argues that children who play team sports develop better social skills. Which of the following provides the strongest support for this argument?

   1. Many schools offer both music and sports clubs.
   2. Children involved in team sports are often observed collaborating and communicating effectively.
   3. Sports equipment can sometimes be expensive.
   4. Some children prefer individual sports like tennis or swimming.

   Explanation: This option offers direct observational evidence that links team sports participation with improved social skills, supporting the argument. Preference for individual sports (B) and the cost of equipment (C) are unrelated to the development of social skills. The availability of other clubs (D) doesn't speak to the impact of team sports.