9 Philosophy
9PHL Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: Dr C. Gavin.
The Year 9 Philosophy Course is designed to develop students’ creative and critical thinking skills and engage in collaborative discussions. They will develop key skills such as how to be open minded and listen to others perspective and how to argue respectfully.
Students will participate in fun hands on activities that are in the context of current social issues. For example social media use, what makes a good friend, cancel culture, fake news and other relevant concerns.
Big questions such as, how do we know what we know are explored. Students conduct inquiries into the distinctions between pseudo science and science, and explore ethical dilemmas.
Not only do students gain an understanding of how to do philosophy but they also develop interpersonal and communication competencies that are relevant to subjects across the curriculum. It is intended that students will unleash their curiosity and practice compassion in their philosophy community of learning.
Course Overview
Semester A
Thinking skills games and activities.
How do we know things?
Pseudoscience versus science.
Project on your choice of pseudoscience eg horoscopes.
Semester B
What is a good life?
Ethical theories and dilemmas
Applied ethics.
Ethics essay on a topic of your choice.
How to be a good human.
Semester C
Thinking skills games and activities.
How do we know things?
Pseudoscience versus science.
Project on your choice of pseudoscience eg horoscopes.
Semester D
What is a good life?
Ethical theories and dilemmas
Applied ethics.
Ethics essay on a topic of your choice.
How to be a good human.
Year 9 Option Selection - Half Year Courses, Learning Centre
Assessment Policy & Procedures Assessment Information
Students are assessed against the NZ Curriculum levels.