Philosophy

Overview
This course is taught through a combination of lectures, videos, group-work and intranet activities. Students produce presentations and numerous essays, many timed, in the course of the year. The emphasis lies on argument, analysis and evaluation, and bears on some of the central topics of philosophical interest and importance .

Course Outline

AS Level

Unit 1: An introduction to Philosophy 1
• Reason and Experience (Compulsory)
• Persons

Unit 2: An introduction to Philosophy 2
• God and the World
• Free Will and Determinism
Both units are assessed by exam and each paper is worth 50% of the AS marks. Candidates must answer TWO questions on each paper and each paper lasts 1 hour 30 minutes.

A2 Level

Unit 3: Key Themes in Philosophy
• Philosophy of Mind
• Moral Philosophy

Unit 4: Philosophical Problems
• Descartes: Meditations
Both units are assessed by exam. Unit 3 has a TWO hour written paper comprising a question on each theme and this represents 60% of A2 marks. Unit 4 has an exam of 1 hour and 30 minutes, comprising a textual question and an essay question. This paper represents 40% of A2 marks .

Assessment
No Coursework
Examination (100%)
Examining Board – AQA.

Special Entry Requirements
Philosophy requires engagement with densely written texts and the ability to write clearly on very abstract subjects. GCSE English Language grade C, or preferably higher, is essential .

Prohibited Options
None.

Career and Progression Opportunities
Philosophy is recognised by universities and employers as a rigorous discipline, and is associated with careers in Law, journalism, politics, teaching and the Arts.

Other Information
The College has an excellent Philosophy library, including several journals. Students are required to make use of selected intranet and internet sites.

This information is correct for September 2012 entry.