Subjects Ethics and Philosophy AS Level

Course description:

Do you exist? Can you be sure you exist? How can you be sure that you are not simply part of somebody else's computer program as in The Matrix? In Ethics and Philosophy we take these questions very seriously and consider a range of answers to them.

It has become an increasingly popular subject in school in recent years. It appeals to those students who wish to develop their power of analytical and independent thinking. Many lively discussions will be encouraged about areas of life that you may have never considered in depth before. The course asks students to contemplate questions such as ‘Is it ever right to kill?’, ‘What do we mean when we use terms such as right and wrong?’ 'Is it possible to prove by reason alone that God exists?

The AS course consists of an introduction to the major influences on philosophy including the thinking of Plato and Aristotle. Students will also consider the philosophy of religion. Topics include the traditional arguments for and against the existence of God and the challenges of psychology and sociology to religious belief. The final unit looks at Ethical theories such as Utilitarianism and how these can be applied to issues such as genetic engineering and embryo research. Ongoing advice is given to students on improving skills needed to achieve a high standard in this subject and a substantial amount of time will be spent looking at examination techniques

Course structure:

There will be five lessons of AS Ethics every fortnight.

Homework:

Because of its demanding nature, students on the course will be set weekly homework assignments.

Assessment, weighting and timings of assessments:

The course will be assessed by three written examinations. One will take place in June in Year 10 and the others will be sat in June in Year 11. Students are expected to complete individual study to enhance their learning in the classroom.

Books, equipment, materials and resources recommended / needed:

Textbooks, exercise books will be provided. Students will need an open and enquiring mind.

Opportunities for study beyond Key Stage 4:

This AS Level course can be augmented to form an ‘A’ Level GCE in Ethics and Philosophy.

Career opportunities supported by this subject:

This subject is useful in any career which requires people to consider complex questions from a number of different perspectives. It is increasingly becoming more relevant for careers in law and medicine as well as in teaching, social work and the civil service. It provides an excellent foundation for the study of Philosophy or Theology at University.