Module 3

Module three is basically showing that mathematics is not just about numbers but much of it is
problem solving and reasoning.
PROBLEM SOLVING AND REASONING
Learning Outcome:
1. State different types of reasoning to justify statements and arguments made about mathematics
and mathematical concept.
2. Write clear and logical proofs.
3.Solve problems involving patterns and recreational problems following Polya’s four steps.
4. Organize one’s methods and approaches for proving and solving problems.

Module 3-1
Inductive and Deductive Reasoning
Specific Objectives
At the end of this lesson, the student should be able to:
1. Define inductive and deductive reasoning.
2. Differentiate inductive reasoning from deductive reasoning.
3. Demonstrate the correct way in using the two kinds of reasoning.
4. Apply the concept of patterns in mathematics to solve problems in inductive and deductive
reasoning whichlead into correct conjecture by creating their own reasoning.
In mathematics, sometimes we need to use inductive and deductive reasoning to be able to
solve some practical problems that we may encounter in our daily lives. During your senior high
school, your teacher taught you on how to solve problems in a most scientific way and there are
steps to be followed in order to solve problems in a particular math subject, specifically in
Algebra. Some of these problems are the number problem, age problem, coin problem, work
problem, mixture problem, etc. In this module, we will be studying on how to solve problems in
a different way. We will be using what we called an inductive and deductive reasoning way. But
before we give an example on how to use this method, let us define first what inductive and
deductive reasoning is.
A. Inductive Reasoning
The type of reasoning that forms a conclusion based on the examination of specific examples is
called inductive reasoning. The conclusion formed by using inductive reasoning is often called
a conjecture, since it may or may not be correct or in other words, it is a concluding statement
that is reached using inductive reasoning. Inductive reasoning uses a set of specific observations
to reach an overarching conclusion or it is the process of recognizing or observing patterns and
drawing a conclusion.
So in short, inductive reasoning is the process of reaching a general conclusion by examining
specific examples.
*Take note that inductive reasoning does not guarantee a true result, it only provides a
means of making a conjecture.
Also, in inductive reasoning, we use the “then” and “now” approach. The “then” idea is to use
the data to find pattern and make a prediction and the “now”idea is to make a conjecture base on
the inductive reasoning or find a counterexample. Definition for counter example will be
discussed on the latter part of our lecture. Let us have some examples on how to deal with this
kind of reasoning.

Examples:
1. Use inductive reasoning to predict the next number in each of the following list: 3, 6, 9, 12,
15, ?
Explanation
The given sequence of number is clearly seen that each successive number is three (3) larger than
the preceding number, which is if the first number is increased by 3 the result is 6. Now, when
this 6 is increased by 3 the next number would be 9. If we are going to continue the process, if 15
is increased by 3 then the next number would be 18. Hence the required number is 18.

2. Write a conjecture that describe the pattern 2, 4, 12, 48, 240. Then use the conjecture to find
the next item in the sequence.
Step 1. Look for a pattern 2 4 12 48 240 … ? Step
2. Analyze what is happening in the given pattern. The numbers are multiplied by 2, then 3, then
4, then 5. The next number will be the product of 240 times 6 or 1,140.
Step 3: Make a conjecture Now, the answer is 1,140

B. Deductive Reasoning
Another type of reasoning is called deductive reasoning. It is a basic form of valid reasoning
starts out with a general statement, or hypothesis, and examines the possibilities to reach a
specific, logical conclusion. So, we could say also that this kind of reasoning works from the
more general to the more specific.
By definition, deductive reasoning is the process of reaching specific conclusion by applying
general ideas or assumptions, procedure or principle or it is a process of reasoning logically from
given statement to a conclusion. The concept of deductive reasoning is often expressed visually
using a funnel that narrows a general idea into a specific conclusion.
Example 1.
First Premise: All positive counting numbers whose unit digit is divisible by two are even
numbers.
Second Premise: A positive counting number 1,236 has a unit digit of 6 which is divisible by
two.
Conclusion: Therefore, 1,236 is an even number.
Example 2.
First Premise: If the Department of Education strictly observed health conditions of the students
due to Covid 19, then there is no face-to-face teaching and learning activity in a classroom.
Second Premise: The Philippines is currently experiencing Covid 19 pandemic.
Conclusion: Therefore, there will be no face-to-face teaching and learning style in a classroom.
Note: Not all arguments are valid! Can you make an example of a deductive reasoning that could
be considered as an invalid argument?

Practice Sheet
Directions: Do as indicated.
A. Identify the premise and conclusion in each of the following arguments. Tell whether also if
the following arguments is an inductive or deductive reasoning.

a) The building of College of Informatics and Computing Sciences in BatStateUAlangilan is

made out of cement. Both building of the College of Engineering, Architecture and Fine Arts and
the College of Industrial Technology in BatStateUAlangilan are made out of cement. Therefore,
all building of Batangas State University is made out of cement.

b) All birds has wings. Eagle is a bird. Therefore, eagle is a bird.

B. Use inductive reasoning to predict the next three numbers on the following series of numbers.
a) 3, 7, 11, 15, 19, 23, ____, _____, _____, …
b) 1, 2, 6, 15, 31, _____, ______, ______, …
c) 1, 4, 9, 16, 25, 36, 49, ______, _____, _____, ….