Sixth Form Subject Guide 2019-2021 REDRAFTED Sixth Form Choices Guide | Page 55

IB Philosophy (Higher and Standard Level) HEAD OF DEPARTMENT: Mr S Gates ([email protected]) Entry Requirements Where next? None. Philosophy is highly respected amongst University admissions tutors as it places thinking skills at the heart of study. The course leads directly to Philosophy, Theology & Religious Studies at University as well as to almost any course that requires logical thinking and cogent argument including Law, Business, Medicine and a wide range of Humanities degrees. Future careers are also considerably varied with opportunities presented in education, management, law, business, broadcasting, marketing, medicine and the Civil Service to name just a few. It is an excellent preparation for any career that requires the transferable skills of analysing information, precise evaluation and clear thinking. WHAT WILL I STUDY? Part 1 - Themes Core Theme – [All students] Being Human Students explore the nature of the human condition, concepts of freedom, individuality and meaning. This is a wide- ranging module looking at ideas and questions from a broad section of cultures, perspectives and understandings of humanity. Optional Theme – [All students] Theories & Problems of Ethics Students explore the principles, which underpin moral action as well as the application of morality in areas of medical technology, environmental issues and the responsibility of wealth. Optional Theme – [Higher Level Only] Political Philosophy Students examine the nature of the state, government, rights and justice. This includes study of crime and punishment, protest, political ideologies and civic duty. Part 2 – Prescribed Philosophical Text Students are required to study one text from the IBO list of prescribed philosophical texts. Part 3 – Internal Assessment Students are required to produce a philosophical analysis of non-philosophical material, to demonstrate their philosophical skills. Part 4 – Unseen Text [Higher Level Only] Students are required to develop a philosophical response to an unseen text that demonstrates the idea of ‘doing philosophy’, and shows a holistic appreciation of the skills, material and ideas developed throughout the course. HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? All candidates sit written linear exam papers at the end of the course. Paper 1 involves essay answers which cover each of the themes studied (SL 1hr45, HL 2hr30) and Paper 2 is focused on the prescribed text (1hr). All candidates also complete an Internal Assessment (coursework assignment) and Higher Level candidates have an additional written exam, responding to an unseen text. At Standard Level (SL) Paper 1 is worth 50% with Paper 2 and the IA worth 25% each. At Higher Level (HL) Paper 1 is worth 40% with Paper 2, Paper 3 and the IA worth 20% each. 54