Question 19

The child is able to develop hypotheses and systematically conclude which is the best path to follow in solving a problem.

This ability signifies a transition to the formal operational stage, where abstract thinking and logical reasoning are prominent. Children at this stage can formulate and test hypotheses, which is a key characteristic of formal operational thought.

A) The child is able to understand that numbers or objects can be changed and then returned to their original states

This statement describes a characteristic of the concrete operational stage, specifically the concept of conservation. While this understanding is important, it does not reflect the abstract reasoning capabilities indicative of the formal operational stage.

B) The child is able to develop hypotheses and systematically conclude which is the best path to follow in solving a problem

This option correctly identifies a hallmark of the formal operational stage, where children can think abstractly and logically. The ability to hypothesize and systematically approach problem-solving illustrates advanced cognitive processes that exceed the concrete operational stage.

C) The child is able to understand that the quantity, length, or number of items is unrelated to the arrangement or appearance of the items

This reflects the concept of conservation, which is mastered during the concrete operational stage. While it is an important cognitive development, it does not demonstrate the abstract reasoning abilities associated with the formal operational stage.

D) The child is able to name and identify sets of objects according to appearance, size, or other characteristics, including the idea that one set of objects can include another

This ability pertains to classification and seriation, skills developed during the concrete operational stage. It indicates logical thought but does not encompass the abstract reasoning necessary for the formal operational stage.

Conclusion

Option B is definitively correct as it represents the advanced cognitive abilities that emerge in the formal operational stage, including hypothesis development and systematic problem-solving. The other options, while relevant to cognitive development, do not encapsulate the abstract reasoning skills that distinguish the formal operational stage from the concrete operational stage.