What are Logical Fallacies? Definition and Examples for 7th Grade

📚 Quick Study Guide

• 🍎 Definition: A logical fallacy is a flaw in reasoning that makes an argument invalid. It's like a trick of the mind that can make something sound convincing even if it's not true.
• ⚠️ Why They Matter: Recognizing logical fallacies helps you think critically, make better decisions, and avoid being misled by others.
• 🗣️ Common Types:
  • Ad Hominem: Attacking the person making the argument instead of the argument itself.
  • Bandwagon: Saying something is true because many people believe it.
  • Straw Man: Misrepresenting someone's argument to make it easier to attack.
  • False Dilemma: Presenting only two options when more exist.
  • Appeal to Emotion: Trying to persuade someone by using their feelings instead of facts.
• 💡 Spotting Fallacies: Look for weak evidence, irrelevant information, or emotional appeals instead of logical reasons.

Practice Quiz

1. Which of the following is the best definition of a logical fallacy?

   1. A) A statement that is always true.
   2. B) A flaw in reasoning that makes an argument invalid.
   3. C) An opinion that everyone agrees with.
   4. D) A fact supported by scientific evidence.

2. What type of fallacy is it when someone says, "Everyone is buying this new phone, so it must be good!"?

   1. A) Ad Hominem
   2. B) Bandwagon
   3. C) Straw Man
   4. D) False Dilemma

3. Which fallacy involves attacking the person making the argument instead of the argument itself?

   1. A) Straw Man
   2. B) Appeal to Emotion
   3. C) Ad Hominem
   4. D) False Dilemma

4. What is a "Straw Man" fallacy?

   1. A) Building a house out of straw.
   2. B) Misrepresenting someone's argument to make it easier to attack.
   3. C) Arguing with a scarecrow.
   4. D) Avoiding an argument altogether.

5. Which fallacy presents only two options when more exist?

   1. A) Bandwagon
   2. B) False Dilemma
   3. C) Ad Hominem
   4. D) Appeal to Emotion

6. If someone tries to persuade you by making you feel sorry for them instead of using facts, what fallacy are they using?

   1. A) Straw Man
   2. B) Bandwagon
   3. C) Appeal to Emotion
   4. D) Ad Hominem

7. Someone argues, "My opponent wants to cut military spending, so they clearly don't care about national security." What fallacy is this?

   1. A) False Dilemma
   2. B) Straw Man
   3. C) Bandwagon
   4. D) Ad Hominem