Truth Value Computation

For a 7-year-old, the abstract concept of 'Truth Value Computation' in formal propositional logic is beyond their developmental stage (Concrete Operational). The 'Precursor Principle' dictates focusing on foundational skills. This shelf aims to develop an intuitive understanding of conditional statements, cause-and-effect reasoning, sequential logic, and the evaluation of outcomes as 'true' or 'false' in a concrete, game-based context.

The ThinkFun Code Master Programming Logic Game is selected as the primary tool because it perfectly aligns with these needs. It is an 'unplugged coding' logic game that requires children to create a sequence of moves (a 'program') for an avatar to reach a goal (the 'truth' of the proposition). This process implicitly teaches:

1. Conditional Reasoning (If-Then): "IF the Avatar is here, AND the portal is there, THEN I must take these steps to avoid obstacles." Children learn to anticipate consequences based on current conditions.
2. Sequential Logic: Moves must be ordered correctly for the 'program' to be true.
3. Debugging and Evaluation: If the avatar doesn't reach the goal, the child must evaluate why their sequence of moves (their 'computation') was 'false' and identify the incorrect 'truth value' in their step-by-step logic.

This hands-on, problem-solving approach provides a tangible link between actions, conditions, and outcomes, which is the experiential bedrock for later, more formal truth value computation.

Implementation Protocol for a 7-year-old:

1. Start with the Basics: Begin with the easiest challenges and encourage exploration rather than immediate 'right answers.' Emphasize understanding why a solution works or doesn't work.
2. Verbalize the Logic: As the child plays, verbalize the 'if-then' statements involved. "If we use the 'move forward' command here, what happens? Is that where we want to go? Is it 'true' to our goal?" Introduce 'and', 'or', and 'not' naturally within context (e.g., "We need to pick up the crystal and reach the portal.", "You can go left or right here.", "You must not touch the hazard.")
3. Focus on Debugging: When a plan fails (the 'computation' yields a 'false' outcome), guide the child through debugging. Ask: "Where did your plan go wrong? What did you expect to happen, and what actually happened? What can we change to make it 'true'?" This is crucial for developing logical evaluation skills.
4. Connect to Real-World Scenarios: Draw parallels to daily life: "If you put your shoes on, then you can go outside." or "If we follow the recipe steps correctly, then we will have a delicious cake." This helps generalize the logical patterns.
5. Encourage Planning: Use the extra laminated grid mat and dry-erase markers for planning out moves before placing the tokens, fostering systematic thought.