Philosophy: Questions and Theories, Grade 12, University Preparation

In this unit, students will be introduced to key philosophical topics and some of the major questions that have intrigued thinkers for centuries, such as those related to knowledge, morality, and human existence. They will explore the main branches of philosophy—metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, political philosophy, and aesthetics—and begin to understand how these areas connect to everyday life. Students will also learn the basic structure of philosophical arguments, including how to identify premises and conclusions, and evaluate reasoning. This foundation will prepare them to ask thoughtful questions and engage critically with philosophical ideas throughout the course.

(13 hrs online / 12 hrs offline)

A1, A2, A3, A4, B1, B2

In this unit, students will explore ethics, the branch of philosophy concerned with questions of right and wrong, moral responsibility, and how we should live. They will examine key ethical questions such as “What is the good life?” and “Are there objective moral standards?” while studying major ethical theories like utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics. Students will analyze and compare the views of different philosophers, evaluate moral arguments, and apply ethical reasoning to contemporary issues. Through discussion, debate, and written work, they will develop and defend their own ethical positions using clear reasoning and appropriate terminology.

(12 hrs online / 12 hrs offline)

A1, A2, A3, A4, B2, D1, D2, D3, D4

In this unit, students explore epistemology, the branch of philosophy concerned with the nature, sources, and limits of knowledge. They examine core questions such as “What is truth?” and “How do we know what we know?” while studying major foundational theories like rationalism, empiricism, skepticism, and constructivism. Students analyze and compare positions held by prominent historical and contemporary thinkers, evaluate definitions of justified true belief, and investigate the boundaries of human understanding. Through structured analysis, reflection, and philosophical debates, students develop and defend their own epistemological viewpoints using clear reasoning and precise terms.

(12 hrs online / 12 hrs offline)

E1, E2, E3, E4, A1, A2, A3, A4, B1, B2

In this unit, students investigate the philosophy of science, exploring the foundational assumptions, methods, and implications of scientific inquiry. They analyze central questions such as “What distinguishes science from pseudoscience?” and “How do scientific theories change over time?” while studying key concepts like falsifiability, paradigm shifts, and scientific realism versus anti-realism. Students evaluate the contributions of major figures and schools of thought, examining how scientific knowledge connects to broader societal choices, ethical concerns, and daily life. Through critical reading and collaborative discussions, students refine their philosophical reasoning to formulate and justify their own positions on scientific objectivity and progress.

(12 hrs online / 12 hrs offline)

F1, F2, F3, F4, A1, A2, A3, A4, B1, B2

In this unit, students will investigate key questions in metaphysics, such as the nature of reality, the existence of a supreme being, the relationship between mind and body, the concept of the self, and whether human actions are truly free. They will study and compare the views of major philosophers and schools of thought from both Western and non-Western traditions, using classic and contemporary texts to deepen their understanding. Students will analyze different metaphysical theories, evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of various arguments, and develop their own reasoned responses to metaphysical questions. They will also explore the connections between metaphysics and other areas of philosophy, as well as its influence on science, politics, culture, and everyday life. Through discussion, debate, and written work, students will apply philosophical reasoning, use proper terminology, and reflect on how metaphysical ideas shape their own beliefs and experiences.

(6 hrs online / 8 hrs offline)

A1, A2, A3, A4, B2, C1, C2, C3, C4

This is a summative task 15% of your final grade.

Students will select a philosophical topic of personal interest and conduct an in-depth research project. They will develop a focused research question, gather and evaluate relevant sources, and construct well-reasoned arguments while considering opposing views. The final project—whether a research paper, presentation, or creative format—will demonstrate their ability to apply philosophical inquiry skills, communicate complex ideas clearly, and reflect on their learning process.

(10 hrs online)

A1, A2, A3, A4, B2

Proctored written exam worth 10% of the final grade.

(3 hrs online)