Teaching Validity and Soundness of Arguments Using the Board Game The Resistance

Derek ThompsonTaylor University

theycallmedt@gmail.comMathFest 2015 – Washington, D.C.

History – Mafia, Werewolf Theme(s)

◦Resistance vs. Resistance Avalon◦Expansions, Variants

Sequence of Play Moral Objections Inexpensive

◦$20 MSRP◦Can be ~$13

Just what is The Resistance?

An example of deduction◦A, B, C, D, E, F are playing (two spies). On the

first mission, A and D go. One fail card, one pass card. On the second mission, B, C, E go. One fail card, two pass cards. What do you know for sure?

Players talk a lot in the game◦Spies try to convince you with valid

arguments that are not sound◦Above scenario: B says, “Look, I’m not a spy,

exactly one of C or E is a spy.” (B’s a liar.)

Where’s the math?

Great! Lots of laughter and enjoyment Notes came right out The best learning develops naturally (paraphrased) “Games designed to be

educational aren’t fun. You have to let it sneak up on you.” (Alan Moon, Ticket to Ride / 10 Days in the USA)

How’d it go?

Homework based on the gameSurvey (over 3 weeks later)◦Enjoyed it, thought it was worthwhile use of time

◦No moral objections◦Remembered the difference of valid and sound!

Post-assessment

Will definitely do this in class again

Harder homework maybe?Could be a basis for research (papers written on Mafia…)

Future Uses

Paper is here: http://faculty.taylor.edu/drthompson/resistancearguments.pdf

Please contact me (theycallmedt@gmail.com) to discuss gaming in the classroom!

Want to learn the game? TONIGHT, 7-10 P.M., Omni Shoreham, Governor's Room

Conclusion!

This time, the players agree to a new rule: when voting on a mission, Spies vote yes if and only if a Spy is on the proposed team. The voting for round one:Vote Team 1 Team 2

Amanda, Derek Bob, Derek Amanda Yes Yes Bob No No Carla No Yes Derek No No Ellie No No Fred No NoWho are the spies?