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.
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.
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.
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