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PHL301Arts3 Unitsintermediate

Symbolic Logic

This course, Symbolic Logic, introduces students to the fundamental principles of logic, emphasizing both propositional and predicate calculus. It explores the rules of inference, logical connectives, and truth tables, enabling students to distinguish between valid and invalid arguments. The course aims to enhance critical thinking skills and the ability to translate natural language into symbolic notations, fostering a deeper understanding of logical reasoning and its applications.

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52h
Study Time
13
Weeks
4h
Per Week
basic
Math Level
Course Keywords
Symbolic LogicPropositional CalculusPredicate CalculusTruth TablesLogical Inference

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
➕
Math Level
Basic Math
📖
Learning Type
Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Propositional Variables

2

Logical Connectives

3

Truth Tables

4

Tautology and Contradiction

5

Predicate Logic

6

Quantifiers

7

Rules of Inference

8

Validity and Invalidity

Total Topics8 topics

Requirements

Knowledge and skills recommended for success

PHL105 Introduction to Logic I

PHL152 Introduction to Logic II

GST203 Introduction to Logic and Critical Thinking

💡 Don't have all requirements? Don't worry! Many students successfully complete this course with basic preparation and dedication.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

Assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Tutor-Marked Assessments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Final Examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

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Data Analyst

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Software Engineer

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Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

LawPhilosophyComputer ScienceArtificial IntelligenceData Analysis

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1: Propositional Calculus I

3h

Unit 1: Meaning of propositional variables, Propositional constants and Logical Connectives

3 study hours
  • •Read Unit 1: Meaning of propositional variables, Propositional constants and Logical Connectives.
  • •Understand the definitions of propositional variables and constants.
  • •Identify and apply logical connectives.
  • •Complete the self-assessment exercise.
Week
2

Module 1: Propositional Calculus I

4h

Unit 2: Symbolising Propositions

4 study hours
  • •Study Unit 2: Symbolising Propositions.
  • •Practice symbolising various types of propositions including negations, conjunctions, disjunctions, conditionals, and biconditionals.
  • •Complete the unit exercises.
Week
3

Module 1: Propositional Calculus I

4h

Unit 3: Truth-Conditions and Truth-Tables

4 study hours
  • •Study Unit 3: Truth-Conditions and Truth-Tables.
  • •Learn how to construct truth tables for different logical connectives.
  • •Apply truth tables to determine the truth-value of compound propositions.
  • •Complete the unit exercises.
Week
4

Module 1: Propositional Calculus I

3h

Unit 4: Tautology, Contradiction and Contingent Truths

3 study hours
  • •Study Unit 4: Tautology, Contradiction and Contingent Truths.
  • •Learn how to use truth tables to identify tautologies, contradictions, and contingent truths.
  • •Complete the unit exercises.
Week
5

Module 2: Propositional Calculus II

4h

Unit 1: Validity/Invalidity of Arguments

4 study hours
  • •Study Unit 1: Validity/Invalidity of Arguments.
  • •Learn how to test the validity of arguments using truth tables.
  • •Understand and apply the method of reduction ad absurdum.
  • •Complete the unit exercises.
Week
6

Module 2: Propositional Calculus II

4h

Unit 2: Basic Valid Argument Forms

4 study hours
  • •Study Unit 2: Basic Valid Argument Forms.
  • •Identify and relate with the basic valid arguments.
  • •Explain the signs related to each basic argument.
  • •Apply the signs related to each basic argument.
Week
7

Module 2: Propositional Calculus II

3h

Unit 3: Logically Equivalent Formulas

3 study hours
  • •Study Unit 3: Logically Equivalent Formulas.
  • •Identify some logical connectives that are equivalent.
  • •Identify some equivalent logical equations.
  • •Complete the unit exercises.
Week
8

Module 2: Propositional Calculus II

5h

Unit 4: Method of Natural Deduction

5 study hours
  • •Study Unit 4: Method of Natural Deduction.
  • •Understand the rules of inference and replacement.
  • •Apply the rules of conditional and indirect proof.
  • •Complete the unit exercises.
Week
9

Module 3: Predicate Calculus I

3h

Unit 1: Introducing Predicate logic

3 study hours
  • •Read Unit 1: Introducing Predicate logic.
  • •Identify the essential features of predicate logic.
  • •Apply the rules and understand the symbols peculiar to symbolic logic.
Week
10

Module 3: Predicate Calculus I

4h

Unit 2: Symbolising Propositions in Predicate Logic

4 study hours
  • •Study Unit 2: Symbolising Propositions in Predicate Logic.
  • •Apply the relevant connectives for predicate logic.
  • •Develop the ability to symbolize simple and compound propositions.
  • •Complete the unit exercises.
Week
11

Module 3: Predicate Calculus I

4h

Unit 3: Truth and Falsity in Predicate Logic

4 study hours
  • •Study Unit 3: Truth and Falsity in Predicate Logic.
  • •Identify the various ways of attaining truth-values in predicate logic.
  • •Identify the various connectives and what truth-values they imply.
  • •Complete the unit exercises.
Week
12

Module 4: Predicate Calculus II

4h

Unit 1: Validity in Predicate Logic

4 study hours
  • •Study Unit 1: Validity in Predicate Logic.
  • •Identify the means of attaining validity in predicate logic.
  • •Solve relevant exercises that will deepen understanding.
Week
13

Module 4: Predicate Calculus II

4h

Unit 2: Invalidity in Predicate Logic

4 study hours
  • •Study Unit 2: Invalidity in Predicate Logic.
  • •Identify the rules of invalidity in predicate logic.
  • •Apply the determining conditions in the methods of natural interpretation and interpretation for a model universe.
  • •Complete the unit exercises.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

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Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Review all key definitions and concepts from each unit.

2

Practice translating natural language arguments into symbolic form.

3

Master the construction and interpretation of truth tables.

4

Work through numerous examples of proofs using the rules of inference and replacement.

5

Focus on understanding the restrictions on the application of each rule.

6

Create flashcards for all logical equivalences and valid argument forms.

7

Practice identifying common fallacies in reasoning.

8

Review all TMAs and assignments, paying close attention to feedback.

9

Allocate specific time slots for focused study and practice each week.

10

Form a study group to discuss challenging concepts and practice problems together.

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