Modul3
Module 3 - How to draw conclusions correctly (deduction)
Distinguishing between a conclusion and an assumption
Introduction
In the previous module, we learned how to better understand a text or message. You already know how to find the main idea and distinguish it from additional information. You also know that it is important to stick to what is actually written or said. Now we will take the next step. Sometimes a text or message does not say everything directly. We have to deduce some things from the information we have. In this module, you will learn how to draw conclusions correctly and how to recognise when you are just guessing.
What does it mean to draw a conclusion?
To draw a conclusion means to put information together and arrive at a logical result. For example:
- If it is raining and people have umbrellas, we can conclude that they want to stay dry.
The conclusion is based on the information we have. It should not be based on assumptions.
The difference between a conclusion and an assumption
A correct conclusion:
- is supported by information,
- makes logical sense,
- is based on the text or situation.
An assumption:
- is not based on sufficient evidence,
- adds something extra,
- is often influenced by emotions.
Critical thinking means recognising the difference.
When does an error occur?
An error occurs when:
- we connect things that are unrelated,
- we jump to conclusions,
- we ignore some of the information.
For example:
One student did not come to school.
Conclusion: "He doesn't care about school."
However, this cannot be deduced with certainty from the text or situation. The student may be ill.
Three questions before drawing a conclusion
Before you draw any conclusions, ask yourself:
- Do I have enough information for this conclusion?
- Does this conclusion really follow from the text or message?
- Am I adding anything extra?
If you are not sure about something, it is better to say: "I don't know."
Critical thinking means stopping and asking: Does this conclusion really follow from the information we have?
📌 Summary
- Drawing a conclusion means combining information and arriving at a logical result.
- A correct conclusion is based on what we really know.
- An assumption adds something extra that is not at all certain.
- Not every conclusion is correct just because it sounds logical.
- It is okay to say: "I don't know, I don't have enough information."
Practical exercises
✍️ Practical exercise 1: Read the text and match the information correctly.
"The town has opened a new library in the centre. The library offers a study room and computers with internet access. It will be open for longer at weekends than on weekdays. The library is sure to be very popular and well-attended."
Drag each statement into the correct box. Then click Check answers.
Which sentence is an assumption without evidence?
Select the correct answer:
👀 Show solution
- ❌ "It will be open longer at weekends than on weekdays." — this is a fact, stated directly in the text.
- ✅ "The library will certainly be very popular and well-attended." — this IS an assumption, no evidence given in the text.
- ❌ "The library offers a study room and computers with internet access." — this is a fact, stated directly in the text.
✍️ Practical exercise 2: Read the text and work with the information in it.
"The European Union has announced a new programme to support small businesses. The programme offers financial assistance to companies wishing to expand their services. Companies that meet the specified conditions can apply for support. Some people claim that this programme will help local entrepreneurs. Others say that small businesses have no chance of succeeding anyway."
Identify the conclusions we can draw with certainty that follow directly from the text:
👀 Show solution
- ✅ The European Union has created a programme to support small businesses. — Stated directly in the text.
- ❌ The programme will certainly help all local entrepreneurs. — Not certain — only "some people claim" this.
- ❌ Small businesses have no chance of succeeding. — Not certain — only "others say" this.
- ❌ The programme will transform the economy of the whole country. — Not stated or supported in the text.
- ✅ Some businesses may receive financial assistance. — Stated directly in the text.
- ✅ Businesses must meet the conditions in order to apply for support. — Stated directly in the text.
Identify the conclusions that are not certain based on the text:
👀 Show solution
- ❌ The European Union has created a programme to support small businesses. — This IS certain — it follows directly from the text.
- ✅ The programme will certainly help all local businesses. — This is NOT certain — only "some people claim" this.
- ✅ Small businesses have no chance of succeeding. — This is NOT certain — only "others say" this.
- ❌ Some companies may receive financial assistance. — This IS certain — it follows directly from the text.
- ❌ Businesses must meet certain conditions to be eligible for support. — This IS certain — it follows directly from the text.
- ✅ The programme will transform the economy of the whole country. — This is NOT certain — not supported by the text.
Select what follows from the text?
👀 Show solution
- ❌ That small businesses have no chance of succeeding. — Does NOT follow — only "others say" this.
- ✅ There is a new programme. — Follows directly from the text.
- ✅ The programme offers financial assistance. — Follows directly from the text.
- ❌ That the programme will be successful. — Does NOT follow — no evidence in the text.
- ✅ Businesses must meet the conditions. — Follows directly from the text.
- ❌ That all businesses will receive assistance. — Does NOT follow — not stated in the text.