University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 7

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: 5.00 pm - 6.00 pm Mon, Tue, Thu, and occasional Fri

This module introduces the essential concepts and techniques of critical reasoning, formal propositional logic, and basic predicate logic. Among the central questions are these: what distinguishes an argument from a mere rhetorical ploy? What makes an argument a good one? How can we formally prove that a conclusion follows from some premises? In addressing these questions, we will also cover topics such as argumentative fallacies, ambiguity, argument forms and analyses, induction versus deduction, counterexamples, truth-tables, truth-trees (tableaux), natural deduction, and quantification.

Relationship to other modules

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take PY1006 or take PY1802

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 3 lectures and 1 tutorial.

Scheduled learning hours: 43

Guided independent study hours: 157

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 1.5-hour Written Examination = 40%, Coursework (2 x class tests) = 60%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 100%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 0%

Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr K A Scharp
Module teaching staff: Team taught
Module coordinator email ks70@st-andrews.ac.uk