AS Level Philosophy and Ethics Mrs Joanne Collins Mrs Hannah White

Philosophy and Ethics at High Storrs As a subject we are becoming one of the most popular choices at High Storrs as well as one of the highest achieving subjects. For the last 3 years over 85% of our students met or exceeded their ALPS target grades at A2. Last year 83% of students achieved A*-B grades.

Why study Philosophy and Ethics? You have wondered if there are any explanations as to who we are and what we are doing here and how we should behave. You enjoy discussion and debating moral and philosophical issues. You have good literary skills and want to use them in a new and challenging way. You like to challenge your own beliefs and learn what others think.

Why study Philosophy and Ethics? You have a general interest in religion and ethics and enjoy learning what other people think and believe. You enjoy using critical thinking and analytical skills to solve problems and dilemmas. You are enjoying RE at GCSE level and wish to take it further – AS level Philosophy and Ethics is now one of the most popular choices at KS5 – with good reason!

The OCR course The OCR specification for the study of Philosophy and Ethics builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills that you may have developed through the study of GCSE Religious Studies. It does not, however, assume or require any previous study of the subject. It is designed to support a course of study which is suitable for everyone from any religious background (or none). No prior knowledge of the subject is required. The specification builds on, but do not depend on, the knowledge, understanding and skills specified for GCSE Religious Studies. It is recommended that you have attained communication and literacy skills at a level equivalent to GCSE Grade C in Higher English.

What do we study? Philosophy Ancient Greek influences on philosophy of religion. Judaeo-Christian influences on philosophy of religion. Traditional arguments for the existence of God. Challenges to religious belief: Evil and Science Ethics Ethical Theories Natural Law Kantian Ethics Utilitarianism Religious Ethics Applied Ethics Abortion Euthanasia Genetic Engineering War and Peace

What will lessons be like? A lot of lessons will be discussion based – so you need to be prepared to think on your feet and be prepared to share your thoughts with others – quality note making is a MUST. Some lessons you will be researching using textbooks or computers before presenting ideas back to the class A wide variety of media will be used to keep you informed – and hopefully entertained.

Additional study A strong interest in philosophical and ethical issues is a key requirement of this course. The most successful students are those who commit fully to the course, complete additional reading and seek methods of enriching their own knowledge and understanding. Guidance as to how to do this will be offered to all students but we cannot emphasise enough the need to have a passion for the subject and to be prepared to undertake independent learning.

How will I be assessed? G571: AS Philosophy of Religion You are required to answer two two-part essay questions from a choice of four. 50% of the total AS GCE marks 1.5 h written paper 70 marks Topics and themes in philosophy of religion. G572: AS Religious Ethics You are required to answer two two-part essay questions from a choice of four. 50% of the total AS GCE marks 1.5 h written paper 70 marks Ethical theories and certain topics in practical religious ethics.

Essays You will also be given regular essays as units progress to enable you to develop your essay writing skills and to ensure your understanding of completed work – these will need to be completed by set deadlines. These essays will be marked using exam criteria to give you an idea of how you are performing. You will also do timed assessments in class to prepare you for the exam.

How should I organise myself? You will be expected to keep a file of notes for both Philosophy and Ethics – a lever arch binder is recommended. Lessons may well be discussion based and you are expected to make your own notes for purposes of revision You will be given handouts and assignments and will be expected to keep these in a safe place for easy reference. Organisation is a KEY SKILL for study at AS/A Level. Your folder will be periodically checked by your teacher so that we are able to report on your progress

Any questions please Mrs Collins or Mrs White directly Or call (just don’t expect any straight answers if you want to become a philosopher!)

Final thought… Is it better to question the world around you or to accept what you think you know to be true? How do you know what is true?