Hartwick college

Dr. Wisnewski

Text: Hurley, A Concise Introduction to Logic, 9th Edition (Thomson Wadsworth Press)

Course Aim: My aim in this course is to introduce you to logic, both ancient and modern (but mostly modern). We will investigate various logical tools with the aim of improving our ability to reason rigorously. To this end, we will cover propositional and predicate logic, as well as Venn diagrams and truth-tables.

Course Requirements:

5 In-class Examinations (10% each)

The in-class exams will cover one chapter each. Many of the questions will come directly from the exercises we have completed in class. It is essential that you study for these exams by doing the exercises, not by attempting to memorize certain rules. Logic can only be mastered by active practice.

Several In-class group projects (20%)

I will frequently assign selected problems for small groups of students to tackle collectively. This is a great way to learn the material, and to help others do the same. Unfortunately, if you miss this pedagogical opportunity, it cannot be made-up under any circumstances. I will, however, drop the lowest score for all of your group projects.

Pop Quizzes (5%)

It is logically impossible to give a surprise quiz. I'm going to do it anyway.

Final Exam (25%)

The final exam is cumulative. It is also worth 25% of your grade.

The only way to do well on this exam is to start studying right now. Fortunately, though, if you just do the assignments every week, and study a little each week, you won't have any trouble with this monster.In addition to these requirements, you are expected to attend every class, participate in our discussions, exhibit an almost psychotic devotion to doing the reading assignments, and to learn to like breaking a sweat while doing logic.