Critical Reasoning: Conclusion Strengthening Questions
Recent research has shown that when calculators are allowed into classrooms at the elementary level, the arithmetic ability of pupils becomes weaker. The calculator is a convenient tool that increases accuracy and is widely used. The use of calculators in school should be limited to high school students. Developmental psychologists have proven that even though a child may seem to grasp a concept fully, that child needs time and practice to integrate it properly if it is to be used as an actual application.
Which of the following, if true, supports the argument's conclusion?
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]By presenting a positive aspect of the use of a calculator by elementary pupils, this answer choice weakens the conclusion which supports the use of calculators by high school students alone. Remember, you are looking for a statement that strengthens the conclusion.
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]This answer choice neither weakens nor strengthens the conclusion; describing the technological progress of calculators does not affect the conclusion in any way.
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]This answer choice does not weaken or strengthen the conclusion. Background information about how calculators reach the hands of elementary pupils does not affect the conclusion in any way.
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]This answer choice does not weaken or strengthen the conclusion. The argument deals with elementary and high school education. The professional world is irrelevant and does not affect the conclusion in any way.
Excellent work!
[[snippet]]This answer choice confirms the argument's assumption by stating that in high school, more focus is put on logic and less on the rudimentary performing of tasks, so a calculator cannot detract from the learning process.
