Let them think about reasoning, how it is done and what works. It is a beginning of the study of logic or dialectic, not as one will study it in Aristotle's Prior and Posterior Analytics, but a preparation for that study. First the student must see clearly what is being said and why. Reasonable arguments for opposing positions can then be worked out and resolutions proposed, based on ethical and dogmatic principles. This will be done both in writing and in conversation.
All events are food for such an appetite.
Since the children are now interested in argument, capitalize on their natural inclinations. Let them think about reasoning, how it is done and what works. It is a beginning of the study of logic or dialectic, not as one will study it in Aristotle s Prior and Posterior Analytics , but preparing for that study. First the student must see clearly what is being said and why. Reasonable arguments for opposing positions can then be worked out and resolutions proposed, based on ethical and dogmatic principles.