Area: Math

Introduction to Paradoxes

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Superhero, Sorites, and Zeno’s Dichotomy Paradox Introduction to Lesson: Today we are going to talk about paradoxes, and we are going to discuss some examples together.   First, what is a paradox? Has anyone heard of paradoxes before? [Invite student responses]. A paradox is a special type of puzzle or riddle. It’s when two things … Introduction to Paradoxes

Belief and Knowledge

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Have each person write down on a piece of paper: Once everyone has their statements, then have them pair up to talk about their claims, and why they put them in the category they did. This should get them started on a conversation about the difference between belief and knowledge. Then have the group come … Belief and Knowledge

Reasoning and Arguments

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Photograph of a row of students smiling and engaging in philosophical dialogue in a classroom

Materials needed: Paper, writing utensil Description: First, put these three words on the board: conclusion, premise, argument. Ask the students what these words mean. Often students will need a little guidance here because this is a foreign way of thinking for them. Then give them a very simple argument. For example: P1. If you’re about to … Reasoning and Arguments

Numbers and Reality

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Using the questions in the Discussion Questions tab above, have students answer each question on a sheet of paper. Next, have a discussion around some of the questions. Some students would probably agree with the position in metaphysics that maintains that all real things are real in the same way. This position holds that something … Numbers and Reality