Argumentation

Find the Fallacy

Use this tool to: 
  • Have students identify fallacies (level 1)
  • Have students analyze fallacies (level 1 & 2)
  • Have students appraise arguments (level 2)

What is it?

Fallacies are mistakes made in the construction or presentation of an argument. They can occur by mistake or to encourage a particular effect (in marketing or political debates). This activity will encourage students to begin spotting fallacies in the media they consume, even in content that may seem to be presenting reliable, convincing arguments. 

Find the Fallacy

  • 2 files

Download the Film Activity Plan and the accompanying Popular Fallacies document to incorporate the activity into your classes

Extras

We have found two scenes from That Sugar Film (2014) that are great for this activity:

  • (Around 03:25-04:30): the scene with Hugh Jackman speaking about the history of sugar

  • (Around 11:22-13:28): the scene with Stephen Fry speaking about kinds of sugar 


Recommended: Prior to showing the clip, do a knowledge-activating activity with your students related to the fallacies you wish to cover. We have some quiz questions on the Popular Fallacies available here:

Related activities

Toulmin & Decisions

Level 1 ✱ We make decisions all the time, but what are the decisions based on and how can we analyze the decision made? Using film clips and the Toulmin model will help to understand this important aspect of critical thinking.

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Fishbowl

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