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Using our logic and reasoning skills to make better decisions in everyday life.
Imagine you have a magic remote control that could pause time every time you had to make a choice. What would you look for before you pressed 'play' again?
Quick Check
If a decision has more 'Cons' than 'Pros,' is it usually a wise choice or a risky choice?
Answer
It is usually a risky or poor choice because the 'bad' outweighs the 'good.'
A wise choice isn't just a guess; it's a choice with a reason. When you explain your choice, the most important word you can use is because. This is called logic. Logic is like a bridge that connects your choice to a fact. For example, instead of saying 'I want the apple,' a Decision Detective says, 'I chose the apple because it gives me energy for soccer practice.' Using logic helps other people understand your thinking and helps you feel confident that you aren't just making a random guess.
It is raining outside. You have to choose between playing tag in the gym or reading a book in the library. 1. The Choice: I choose the library. 2. The Logic: I am choosing the library because the gym will be very loud today, and I want to finish my science chapter. 3. The Result: You have a logical justification that makes sense to your teacher and yourself.
Quick Check
What is the 'bridge word' we use to connect a choice to a logical reason?
Answer
The word is 'because.'
Every decision has a consequence. A consequence is simply what happens after you make a choice. Think of a decision like a pebble dropped into a pond. The spot where the pebble hits is the choice, but the ripples that spread out are the consequences. Some ripples are small and disappear quickly, while others can reach the whole way across the pond! Before you decide, ask yourself: 'If I do this, what will happen in 10 minutes? What about in 10 hours?' This is called predicting.
Your friend told you a secret, but you really want to tell someone else because it's exciting news. 1. The Choice: Tell the secret to one other person. 2. Immediate Ripple: You feel excited to share the news. 3. Long-term Ripple: Your friend finds out you told, they lose trust in you, and your friendship is hurt. 4. The Analysis: The small 'Pro' of excitement is much smaller than the big 'Con' of losing a friend's trust.
What do we call the 'bad things' or 'costs' of a decision?
If you choose to wear a coat 'because it is outside,' what are you using?
A consequence is always a bad thing that happens when you break a rule.
Review Tomorrow
Tomorrow morning, when you pick what to wear or what to eat for breakfast, try to name one 'Pro' and one 'Con' for your choice.
Practice Activity
Draw a 'Ripple Map' for a big decision, like choosing a new hobby. Put the choice in the center and draw circles around it showing what might happen next.