PP 240N

This course focusses on the skills tested in the LSAT (Law School Admission Test), a standardized exam required for admission to law schools in Canada. Two of the three scored sections on the LSAT are logical reasoning, and that will be the primary focus of this course. The core skill in logical reasoning for LSAT is that of analyzing and critically evaluating arguments in complex short texts. We will analyze argument structure, evidential support for argumentative conclusions, unstated assumptions, flaws in reasoning, conditional reasoning, and learn to parse complex language. This course will use questions and materials drawn directly from previous LSATs. Familiarity with the exact types of questions posed on the LSAT is crucial to improving your LSAT score. Students will be required to purchase licensed materials from LSAC for the course. This course is suitable for students at any stage of law school interest or preparation. There is no requirement for actually registering for or officially taking the LSAT, and you are welcome to take this course early in your undergraduate studies. The skills practiced in this course are widely useful beyond preparation for a specific standardized exam. Logical reasoning is an important and highly transferable skill.