SCO112: (Critical Reasoning) This is a group-based assignment. You should form a group of 3 to 5 members from your T- Group. Each T-Group is allowed a maximum of 12 groups. Each group is required to upload a fake news article and a commentary on it via your respective seminar group site in Canvas.

Module / Subject / School:

SCO112: Critical Reasoning

Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS)

Requirements: 

Task 1

In this assignment, you are required to select a fake news article not featured in the SCO112 Study Guide, summarise the article, and apply 4 out of 8 items on the IFLA checklist on SU1-11 to identify fake news content in the article in no more than 300 words, excluding references.

Marks will be awarded for the following two aspects:

(a) Summarise the article. (10 marks)

(b) Apply 4 out of the 8 items on the IFLA checklist on SU1-11 to identify fake news content in the article. (20 marks)

Task 2

Write a three-paragraph commentary not exceeding 500 words on the selected article.

(a) State at least one cognitive bias applicable to the selected fake news article and explain how it applies to your chosen fake news content. (15 marks)

(b) State at least one informal fallacy applicable to the selected fake news article and explain how it applies to your chosen fake news content. (15 marks)

(c) State three measures that readers can take to resist the cognitive bias/biases and informal fallacy/fallacies in general. Evaluate the measures: argue for the most widely applicable measure and against the other two measures.

What we score:

77%

Our Writer’s Comment 

This assignment is designed to assess students’ understanding of business practices.

To secure an A+ grade, adhere to these guidelines and make sure your work aligns with the grading criteria:

Task 1: Summarising and Analyzing Fake News

1. Clear and Concise Summary

For the summary, your goal is to provide a clear and concise overview of the fake news article. Focus on capturing the main points without getting bogged down in unnecessary details. Make sure your summary reflects the key claims and the overall tone of the article. Since this part is worth 10 marks, precision and clarity are your best friends here.

2. Applying the IFLA Checklist

When applying the 4 items from the IFLA checklist, pick the ones that are most obviously relevant to your chosen article. For example, if the source of the article is questionable, you might choose the “Consider the source” item. Explain how each item reveals the fake news aspects of the article. Be specific—don’t just say, “This article lacks credibility,” but explain why, using the checklist as your guide. Since this section is worth 20 marks, it’s crucial that your application of the checklist is thorough and well-argued.

Task 2: Commentary on Cognitive Bias and Fallacies

1. Identifying Cognitive Bias

When you identify a cognitive bias, make sure it’s directly relevant to the fake news article you’ve chosen. For example, if the article plays on people’s fear of a certain group, you might discuss “confirmation bias” or “availability heuristic.” Explain clearly how the bias influences the reader’s perception of the news. The more directly you can tie the bias to the content of the article, the stronger your argument will be.

2. Spotting Informal Fallacies

Just like with cognitive bias, you need to be precise in identifying the informal fallacy in the article. Whether it’s a straw man, ad hominem, or slippery slope, make sure you explain how this fallacy works within the article. Don’t just name the fallacy—show how it distorts the argument or misleads the reader.

3. Evaluating Measures to Resist Bias and Fallacies

For this part, when you suggest measures that readers can take to resist bias and fallacies, make sure you evaluate each one critically. Argue why one measure might be more effective or widely applicable than the others. For example, if you suggest that readers should “verify information with multiple sources,” argue why this is more reliable than just “being skeptical” or “ignoring emotionally charged content.” This part shows your ability to not only identify problems but also to think critically about solutions.

General Tips for Both Tasks

1. Structure and Clarity

A well-structured response is easier to follow and tends to score higher. Make sure each part of your answer is clearly labeled and that your arguments flow logically from one section to the next. Use headings if it helps to organize your thoughts.

2. Precision with Word Count

You have specific word limits for each task, so use your words wisely. Don’t waste space on filler content—make every word count. If you go over or under the word count, it can impact your grade, so aim to stay within the limits.

3. Reflect on Feedback

Look at any feedback you got for your 77% score. Were there areas where your explanations were a bit too brief or where your arguments needed more depth? Address these areas in your next submission to boost your score.

4. Engage with the Material

Show that you’re not just completing the assignment but engaging with it. If you’re genuinely interested in the topic, let that enthusiasm show in your writing. It can make your analysis more compelling and your arguments stronger.

By focusing on these areas, you’ll set yourself up to score higher next time.

Keep your analysis sharp, your writing clear, and your engagement with the material strong, and you’ll be well on your way to a better grade. Good luck!

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