Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the Formal Operational Stage?

• A. Conservation of numbers
• B. Abstract concepts
• C. Testing hypotheses
• D. Logical reasoning

Answer: (A)

The formal operational stage, as defined by Piaget, is the stage of cognitive development where individuals begin to think abstractly, logically, and systematically. One of the hallmarks of this stage is the ability to manipulate and reason about hypothetical situations, which includes testing hypotheses and applying logical reasoning to problem-solving scenarios.

While conservation of numbers is a crucial cognitive skill developed in earlier stages — specifically during the concrete operational stage — it does not manifest in the same way during the formal operational stage. Instead, the emphasis in the formal operational stage is on abstract thinking and the ability to understand and manipulate concepts that are not tied to concrete physical objects.

In summary, the correct response highlights a characteristic that is not associated with the formal operational stage, demonstrating a level of cognitive development that occurs prior to it. Conservation of numbers indicates a mastery of concepts that emerges during the concrete operational stage, making it the exception among the characteristics listed.