An introductory and systematic course in formal logic that presents the concepts and methodology in a clear, concise, and organized way. If the course presentation and layout is a reflection of a very logical mind, and Martin Cothran wrote and laid out the course, then Martin Cothran has a very logical mind. While this may or may not be true, it is, nonetheless, a valid argument. Written specifically for the home school environment, and for use by a teacher with no previous experience in formal logic, it seems a good candidate for a self-instructional course (provided you can offer help as needed). You will want to read the author's notes in the front, as he suggests an alternate route through the book if students have trouble with the abstract concepts presented in the first three chapters. The author's targeted grade level is high school, but it may be used with "advanced" 7th and 8th graders or adults as well. If you are using the classical approach with your children, they will probably be ready for this course in junior high. Two levels of the course are available. Book II is to be used only after completing Book I. It features a similar format, but also includes optional writing assignments to allow logic to be integrated with history, Bible, or English. Also, more real-life, contemporary examples of arguments are included. Case studies are also incorporated, to show the relevance of logic in history, literature, religion, and philosophy. The goal, after all, is for the student to apply what he has learned in all areas of life. Section titles include Further Study of Simple Syllogisms (chapters 1-4), Arguments in Ordinary Language (chapters 5-6), Hypothetical Syllogisms (chapters 7-9), Complex Syllogisms (chapters 10-13), the Oblique Syllogism (chapter 14), and a final review.