Examination Board : AQA
Link to Specification : http://www.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/pdf/AQA-2060-W-SP-10.PDF
Units Taken : Units 1 and 2

What is philosophy? Most people agree that philosophy is about using rational argument and logical thinking to shine some light on life's big questions. In doing so you'll get a greater understanding of the world we live in, and of yourself.

At AS the two topics studied are Epistemology (theory of knowledge) and Philosophy of Religion. Epistemology looks at how we acquire knowledge, is it through experience, or are we born with innate knowledge. In Philosophy of Religion you will look at topics such as arguments for and against the existence of God as well as what is understood by the term God and where did this concept come from.

How to think for yourself and question the norm.
How to examine information in a critical way.
How to form judgements based on clear evaluation of information.
How to put your point of view across clearly.
How to take responsibility for your own learning.

Entry Requirements (all A2 subjects carry a minimum requirement of a D-grade AS level)

The school offer for entry is 5 GCSEs at B Grade and above with English Language or Literature and Mathematics at A* - C grade.

Entry Suggestions

Students who have got As or above in essay writing GCSE subjects (e.g. English Lit and Lang, Religious Studies, History) and Maths will be best suited to this course. Students with lower grades may struggle with the course.

If you are made an offer and meet the required grade, you will be expected to complete the following before your first lesson in September:

Read Sophie's World by Jostein Gaardner. Make brief notes on each of the Philosophers and their philosophies that you come across.
The book follows 14-year-old Sophie. When she encounters a mysterious mentor who introduces her to philosophy, mysteries deepen in her own life.
Why does she keep getting postcards addressed to another girl? Who is the other girl? And who, for that matter, is Sophie herself? To solve the riddle, she uses her new knowledge of philosophy, but the truth is far stranger than she could have imagined. A brilliantly original and fascinating story with many twists and turns, it raises profound questions about the meaning of life and the origin of the universe.

Resources needed for this course (Books, Field-trips etc)

Philosophy Textbook: AQA Philosophy AS Student Book £18.99
Philosophy Conference: £16