Syllogisms

Description of the instrument
Syllogisms presents formal, propositional logic. In syllogistic reasoning, the integration of information from two premises about the relationship between terms yields the deduction of an unknown relationship. Through the tasks of Syllogisms, learners gain the ability to discriminate between valid and invalid conclusions and between possible and inevitable outcomes. The instrument fosters inferential and abstract thinking.

Cognitive functions developed

• Appropriate definition of problem.
• Spontaneous comparative behavior between attributes of a set and those of set members.
• Selection of relevant data for elaboration.
• Overcoming episodic grasp of reality by establishing relationships.
• Broadening of mental field to simultaneously elaborate information from several sources.
• Elaboration of cognitive categories on the basis of conceptual criteria.
• Use of summative behavior.
• Hypothetical thinking and search for logical evidence.
  

Mediation of sample task
Transcendence is reached through insight and generalization from the sample task into other areas of academic, vocational, and life experiences. Meaning is assigned to the logical processes that allow the mind to exceed the confines of the concrete experiences through inferential thinking. Goal-seeking, goal-setting, goal-planning, and goal-achieving behavior is mediated along with the mediation of regulated behavior and a feeling of competence.

Sample task

©1996 R. Feuerstein, HWCRI.