BCAT Argument Analysis 2

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the structure of an argument that 'parallel reasoning' tests in the BCAT?

Accepted Answer

Both arguments share the same logical form, regardless of their content

Answer

Both arguments reach the same conclusion

Answer

Both arguments use the same evidence

Answer

Both arguments are about legal topics

Question 2

An argument states: 'If the witness is lying, the defendant is guilty. The defendant is not guilty. Therefore, the witness is not lying.' This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Modus tollens — a valid form of deductive argument

Answer

Modus ponens

Answer

An invalid argument

Answer

A circular argument

Question 3

A passage argues: 'The new sentencing guidelines are fair because the Ministry of Justice says so.' This relies on:

Accepted Answer

An appeal to authority

Answer

Evidence-based reasoning

Answer

A false dichotomy

Answer

Inductive generalization

Question 4

To 'evaluate' an argument in the BCAT context means to:

Accepted Answer

Assess its strengths, weaknesses, and the quality of its reasoning

Answer

Summarise it in your own words

Answer

Identify its main conclusion only

Answer

Rewrite it more clearly

Question 5

Which of the following statements best describes a 'sufficient condition'?

Accepted Answer

If A is sufficient for B, then whenever A occurs, B must follow

Answer

If A is sufficient for B, then B must occur before A

Answer

A sufficient condition guarantees A will occur

Answer

A sufficient condition is the only way B can occur

Question 6

The argument: 'We must introduce drug testing in law firms or the profession will be discredited.' The implicit assumption is:

Accepted Answer

Drug use in law firms currently exists and poses a reputational risk

Answer

Drug testing is always effective at deterring use

Answer

All lawyers are tested in other professions

Answer

The legal profession is already discredited