Introduction to Argumentation and

Debate

Lesson 2 Activity

I. INDUCTIVE REASONING

1. Every time I have ever laid eyes on a bird, it had wings and was flying. Therefore,

all birds can fly.

2. Every time I go to the beach, it is sunny. Therefore, it is sunny all year round at the

beach.

3. I have gardened them all with nothing but red roses. Thus, it follows that all roses

shall be red.

4. Anytime I have seen a cat, it has been after a mouse. Therefore, all cats chase

mice.

5. Every time I have had a meal at that restaurant, it has been really good. Hence,

every meal at that restaurant is great.

II DEDUCTIVE REASONING

1. All men are mortal. John is a man. Therefore, John is mortal.

2. All birds have feathers. A sparrow is a bird. Therefore, a sparrow has feathers.

3. Each employee receives a Christmas gift from the company. The company

employs Mary. That’s why, for example, Mary receives a holiday bonus.

4. All mammals breathe oxygen. A dog is a mammal. Therefore, a dog breathes

oxygen.

5. All fruits contain seeds. An apple is a fruit. Therefore, an apple contains seeds.
ESSAY: Cite similar situations in which such reasoning type argument can be

used during a debate, and explain yourself.

For example, in an argument about the merits of school uniform policy by

pointing at cases where students’ behaviour has changed with adoption of

uniforms. In deductive reasoning, there is application of a general principle to a

particular case such as the argument against wearing uniform that contradicts free

speech. The two reasoning types can be combined in order to develop powerful

arguments of their own, determine perceptions, as well as make decisions.