Contradictory Statements
Suggestions for using
Contradictory statements are used to emphasize the results of emotional words, or faulty reasoning the student is using. By saying the contradiction in a matter of fact way it helps the student to hear the argument for their actions in an unemotional manner. If the student agrees with the statement, that provides information to move the conversation forward.
Use contradictory statements when students use faculty reasoning or questionable logic.
Examples of faulty reasoning include:
Circular reasoning, proof by selected reasoning, proof by selected instances, proof by failure to find a counter example, avoiding the question, special pleading, faking a connection, substituting the converse or inverse for the proposition, proof by counter example, where to draw the line, or carry reasoning to extremes.
Before you state a contradictory statement take a deep breath and exhale while talking. Let your voice decrease in volume at the end of the statement so that it doesn't sound like a question or sarcastic statement. Do not use the words but or however.
Example of use
- You are sure you can do as well without a diploma.
- It is best to sacrifice integrity for a good grade.
- You're sure a topnotch university will disregard a low grade.
- It is better to take 75 cents than a dollar.
- The only way to get the ball was to hit Jim.
- It's always ...
- You always...
- One always...
- One never...
- The only way to...
- The only option was...
- The only reason...
- There's never any use in...
- It's better to ... than ...
- It's best to ...
- It's fair to...
- ... is more important than...
- You are sure that...