CCTST Analysis 5

Question 1

A textbook passage presents a position, then describes objections, then rebuts them. The best analytical description of this structure is:

Accepted Answer

Dialectical argumentation that anticipates and responds to counterarguments

Answer

Presenting objections and then rebutting them is a dialectical strategy that strengthens a position by engaging with opposing views.

Question 2

Which of the following represents an inference rather than a direct observation?

Accepted Answer

The suspect must have entered through the window, given the broken glass inside

Answer

The inference goes beyond what is directly observed (broken glass, locked door) to conclude something not directly seen (entry through the window).

Question 3

In analyzing a legal statute, a lawyer finds that a key term is undefined. The best analytical approach is to:

Accepted Answer

Apply the ordinary meaning of the term, look for definitions elsewhere in the statute, and examine legislative intent

Answer

Legal analysis prioritizes ordinary meaning, internal statutory context, and legislative history when a term is undefined.

Question 4

An argument's conclusion states: 'Therefore, we should ban all social media.' The premises discuss harms to teenagers. The best analytical critique is:

Accepted Answer

The conclusion is broader than the evidence, which addresses only one demographic

Answer

Evidence about one group (teenagers) does not automatically justify a sweeping conclusion affecting everyone.

Question 5

Which of the following best illustrates the difference between an explanation and an argument?

Accepted Answer

An argument tries to convince you a claim is true; an explanation tries to show why something already accepted as true is the case

Answer

Arguments are persuasive—they provide reasons to believe a claim; explanations are descriptive—they clarify why something known to be true is so.

(CCTST) California Critical Thinking Skills Test Practice Test

(CCTST) California Critical Thinking Skills Test Practice Test

CCTST Analysis 5