Page 37 - Seaford Sixth Form Options Booklet 2021

Philosophy and Ethics A Level (AQA)
Head of Department:
Mrs L.Stitt
Teaching Staff:
Mrs L Stitt
Miss Aimee McKnight Father Colin Datchler
Course Content
100% Exam
Paper 1 (50%) - Epistemology and moral philosophy
100 Marks; 3 Hours
Section A: Five questions on epistemology
Section B: Five questions on moral philosophy
Paper 2 (50%) – The Metaphysics of God and the Metaphysics of mind
100 marks; 3 Hours
Section A: Five questions on the metaphysics of God
Section B: Five questions on the metaphysics of mind
Overview
A Level philosophy comprises four topic areas: Epistemology, Moral philosophy, the Metaphysics of God and the Metaphysics of mind. Students are required to demonstrate knowledge
and understanding of the content, including through the use of philosophical analysis (conceptual analysis and argument analysis). They must also be able to analyse and evaluate
the philosophical arguments within the subject content to form reasoned judgements. Students must also demonstrate understanding of and be able to use philosophical terminology correctly.
Expectations
Students need to be self- motivated and be willing
to engage in independent reading. Although students are not expected to be familiar with arguments beyond the syllabus, credit is available, where appropriate, for students whose responses demonstrate wider reading and understanding. Students are expected to conduct
at least 3 hours of private study a week alongside
prep set by their teachers. Students should spend 1 hour consolidating class notes
into revision materials, 1 hour reading ahead of the course and 1 hour conducting wider research. A reading/watching list is provided for this.
Future Pathway
Philosophy allows you to consider the big questions
in life and teaches you how to analyse and communicate ideas logically, which are skills that many employers value. Philosophy students are found working for almost every type of employer in the public, private and not- for-profit sectors. Studying philosophy helps you analyse and construct sound
arguments, distinguish fine differences between views and find common ground, present ideas convincingly through well-constructed, systematic arguments, write clearly and persuasively, generate ideas and come up with solutions to problems, be open to new ideas and ways of thinking. Students also gain general transferable skills including: self-motivation and the capacity for independent study and thought, the ability to prioritise work and meet deadlines, flexibility and creativity, critical thinking, the capacity to identify, absorb and sift complex information and work as a team. It is superb preparation for many degrees and careers.
Recommended Entry Requirements
Grade 6 at GCSE English Literature or Language, and in a Humanities subject, if taken; Religious Studies is ideal but not essential.
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