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Syntax and semantics are terms used in relation to aspects of language.
Syntax is concerned with the structure of language. Syntax is a matter of the logical or grammatical form of sentences, rather than what they refer to or mean.
Semantics is concerned with the meaning of words and sentences. Semantics is a matter of the content or meaning of sentences, often in relation to their truth and falsehood.
'Moths speak ravenously' is syntactically correct as it has a valid 'noun verb adverb' structure, but it is senseless (semantically null). 'Boys play roughly' has both proper syntax and a clear semantic content.
This argument-mapping exercise is a powerful way to appreciate the difference between syntax and semantics. It has four steps:
Step 1
Make a reasoning map of the argument in the box below. This argument has correct syntax and is semantically clear. We've made the logical structure of the argument more apparent by highlighting 'indicators' that signal reasons and objections.
| Capital punishment is wrong because innocent people are sometimes executed, since many convicted murderers have later been proven innocent. Some say that capital punishment deters crime, however in the U.S., crime rates are not lower in states which have capital punishment. |
Drag and drop sections of the above text onto the workspace to proceed. This works with any version of Rationale.
Now check your work against the model answer:
Step 2
Now evaluate the map you made in step one. If you're new to evaluating arguments you might want to drag this thumbnail onto the workspace for some hints:
Now check your work against the model answer:
Step 3
Make a reasoning map of the argument in the box below. It has correct syntax, but it is semantically nonsensical. Nonetheless, you'll find that the indicators allow you to map it correctly:
| Moths speak ravenously because the Principality of Monaco kissed Monday, since the telephone is envious. Some say that hospitals are tender, however cows float jealously. |
Drag and drop sections of the above text onto the workspace to proceed. This works with any version of Rationale.
After you've finished this step drag this thumbnail onto the workspace to check your work against the model answer:
Step 4
The map you've just made isn't like the map you made in step 2: it was easy
to build, but would be impossible to evaluate. Take a few minutes to
reflect on why you can build such a map but can't evaluate it, then
click here for a discussion on this
point.
This material has been developed independently of the International Baccalaureate, which in no way endorses it.
© Austhink 2013. Rationale Exercises version 0.1, Jan-13
