Philosophy
Teacher: Georgina Harper
Stage 2 Philosophy involves the investigation of questions about existence, knowledge, and ethics to which there are no simple answers.
Consequently, philosophical problems foster a variety of views and theories about the nature of the world and our role in it. Investigation of these problems requires skills of critical reasoning, developed through an understanding of reasoning and the foundations of argument analysis.
In this subject, students are expected to:
- Identify and understand philosophical issues and positions.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the role of reasoning and argument in the expression of philosophical issues and positions.
- Critically analyse assumptions, positions, and arguments presented by philosophers, themselves, and others.
- Formulate and argue a philosophical position.
- Communicate philosophical issues and positions, using the conventions of philosophical argument.
The three key areas for study are:
Ethics – a study of moral values, reasoning about what is right and wrong.
Epistemology – a study of theories of knowledge and knowing.
Metaphysics – a study of the nature of existence and reality.
Students should provide evidence of their learning through six assessments, including the external assessment component. Students undertake two argument analysis assessments, three issues analysis assessments (one for each key area) and one issues study.
Assessment:
School Assessment (70%)
- Assessment Type 1: Argument Analysis (25%)
- Assessment Type 2: Issues Analysis (45%)
External Assessment (30%)
- Assessment Type 3: Issues Study (30%)
Pathways:
Stage 2 Philosophy provides essential knowledge for anyone interested in studying philosophy at university. It will also help students improve their critical thinking and analytical skills which will benefit any future study and work.