For the above argument: (a) Bracket and number each proposition in the order it occurs in the argument. (1 mark) (b) Circle the inference indicators. (1 mark) (c) Circle the word below that best describes the strength of the inference. (1 mark) Weak Moderate Strong (d) Use the numbers you have given each proposition to create a diagram of the argument. (3 marks) In answering parts (a) and (b) of the following question, assume that this argument is given as part of a news report from a reputable and trustworthy source. We have reason to believe that if the missing ship is not somewhere in Vietnam, then it is somewhere in the Southern Indian Ocean. There is good evidence that the ship is somewhere in the Southern Indian Ocean, so it is not somewhere in Vietnam. For the above argument: (a) Evaluate the cogency of the argument. Circle the correct answer. (1 mark) Cogent Not cogent (b) Justify your evaluation of the cogency of the argument. (3 marks) ___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________
We all have a moral obligation to preserve the natural environment. or There can be no common good if there is no social contract. or The essence of a person is defined not by what lies within, but by what his/her society thinks of him/her. or Liberal democracy is the only just form of government. or The scientific method is the way to objective truth. Construct an argument that displays independence of thought, originality, precision, consistency, relevance and cogency. The task will be marked as follows: Philosophical understandings, using philosophical language and concepts (10 marks) Philosophical arguments, using effective examples and counter-examples (15 marks) Clarity and structure. (5 marks) Total = 30 marks Marking key for sample assessment task 4 – Unit 3 Description Marks Philosophical understandings Demonstrates a critical understanding of philosophical topics relevant to the question and uses sophisticated philosophical language and concepts 9–10 Demonstrates understanding of philosophical topics relevant to the question and uses appropriate language and concepts 7–8 Demonstrates an understanding of philosophical topics relevant to the question and uses some appropriate philosophical language and concepts 5–6 Demonstrates some understanding of philosophical topics relevant to the question 3–4 Demonstrates a limited understanding of philosophical topics relevant to the question 1–2 Subtotal 10 Philosophical arguments Constructs a relevant, cogent argument, which demonstrates originality, and a deep understanding of philosophical method (e.g. relies on plausible assumptions, demonstrates logical insight, effectively uses examples and counter-examples, where appropriate) 14–15 Constructs a relevant, cogent argument, which demonstrates a sound understanding of philosophical method 12–13 Constructs a relevant, moderately cogent argument, which demonstrates some understanding of philosophical method 10–11 Constructs a relevant, moderately cogent argument (e.g. may contain some errors in reasoning or fails to consider possible objections, where appropriate) 8–9