Our Lady Of Sion

Sixth Form Philosophy

Sixth Form

Philosophy

A Level Philosophy introduces students to a range of important themes in Philosophy, both historical and contemporary. The course follows the progression of thought from thinkers such as Plato and Aristotle from ancient Greece up to the current time on questions such as ‘What is it that makes something morally good?’, ‘How does human knowledge come about?’ and ‘What can we say about the nature of reality?’

Philosophy is best for students who already like to think about these kinds of questions. It is not a subject that you can learn by passively sitting and listening, rather it is very important to bring your own ideas to things, and to be prepared to discuss them with those who disagree.

No previous knowledge of Philosophy is required.  It is recommended that students have attained at least a grade 7 at English Language GCSE.

Key Stage 5

A Level- Topics and Assessment

The 2 year A level course is assessed through examination at the end of the period of study:  There are 2 papers each 3 hours in lengths.

Course Content in Year 1

  • Theory of knowledge
    • What is knowledge?
    • What, if anything, can we be certain of?
    • Can reason alone tell us about the world?
    • How do we perceive the external world?
  • Morality
    • How should we approach moral dilemmas?
    • What can we say about practical issues like eating meat, lying, and playing violent video games?
    • What is virtue?
    • Are there moral truths?

Course Content in Year 2

  • Philosophy of mind
    • What is the relationship between mind and body?
    • Do we have a coherent idea of mind?
    • Can we know the content of other people’s minds?
  • Metaphysics of religion
    • Arguments in favour of the existence of God
    • Arguments against the existence of God
    • How do we use religious language?
    • What can we say about the nature of God?

Exam papers (Year 2)

  • Paper 1 – Epistemology and Ethics
  • Paper 2 – Mind and religion
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University Courses and Careers

In terms of University it is an academically demanding A Level, and will provide excellent preparation for any course that deals with big issues. It teaches critical thinking, and the skill of deconstructing and criticising an argument, as well as constructing your own in favour of conclusions that are often quite abstract.

 

A co-educational, independent school with a strong ethos, successfully providing education to children and young people from ages 3 – 18