• Distinguishing between fact and opinion and point of view Drawing valid inferences and conclusions .
Assessing the credibility or objectivity of the writer

1. Many people want you to see the cause-and-effect relationships that they believe exist, and they often use questionable or outright fallacious reasoning to support their point of view. Consider the following examples:
a) Politicians assure you that a vote for them will result in "a chicken in every pot and a car in every garage".
b) Advertisers tell you that using their detergent will leave your wash "cleaner than clean, whiter than white."
c) Doctors tell you that eating a balanced diet will result in better health.
d) Educators tell you that a college degree is worth an average of $830,000 in additional income over an individual's life.
e) Scientists inform you that nuclear energy will result a better life for all of us.