NBT Critical Thinking & Argument Evaluation 2

Question 1

An argument claims: "Smoking should be banned because it is bad for health." Which critical thinking concept is missing to make this a stronger argument?

Accepted Answer

Empirical evidence supporting the health claim

Answer

A strong argument requires empirical evidence — data, studies, or statistics — to substantiate the claim that smoking is bad for health. Unsupported assertions are weak arguments.

Question 2

Which of the following is the BEST example of a hasty generalisation?

Accepted Answer

My neighbour failed the test, so the test must be too hard.

Answer

A hasty generalisation draws a broad conclusion from insufficient evidence. Judging a test's difficulty based on one person's failure is a classic example.

Question 3

An editorial argues: "If we allow students to use calculators in class, soon they won't be able to do any mental arithmetic at all." This is an example of which fallacy?

Accepted Answer

Slippery slope

Answer

The slippery slope fallacy assumes that one small step will inevitably lead to extreme consequences, without justifying how or why each step follows the next.

Question 4

Which of the following best distinguishes a fact from an opinion?

Accepted Answer

Facts can be verified through evidence; opinions express personal views or judgements.

Answer

A fact is an objectively verifiable statement. An opinion expresses a personal judgement, belief, or evaluation that cannot be objectively proven true or false.

Question 5

A study concludes: "Eating breakfast is associated with better academic performance." A student then concludes: "Therefore, eating breakfast causes better grades." What error in reasoning has the student made?

Accepted Answer

Confusing correlation with causation

Answer

Correlation shows that two variables are related, but does not prove that one causes the other. Other factors (e.g., regular routine, nutrition generally) could explain both eating breakfast and better grades.

(NBT) National Benchmark Test Practice Test

(NBT) National Benchmark Test Practice Test

NBT Critical Thinking & Argument Evaluation 2