Level 1 Philosophy: Awareness, Communities, and Activism
PHIL101 Course Description Recommended Prior LearningThis course is open to all learners with an interest in big ideas, discussion, and social issues. It will be especially helpful if you’ve engaged thoughtfully in Year 10 Social Studies or English, but students from all learning pathways are welcome. If you're unsure, feel free to talk with your Social Studies teacher.
This course will suit learners who are keen to:
Take part in open, respectful discussions and listen to a range of perspectives
Make connections between different topics, subjects, and ideas
Explore abstract concepts and feel comfortable working with uncertainty
Develop their writing skills over time
Grow as independent thinkers and researchers with support and guidance
Big Question: How do our values shape the world around us?
PURPOSE:
In Philosophy, you’ll explore different ways people have tried to understand the universe, human behaviour, and how we should live. You’ll learn how to build reasoned arguments, challenge ideas, and make ethical decisions. You’ll explore a range of thinkers and ideas from both Western and non Western traditions, including Māori and global perspectives.
You’ll investigate how people and groups take action to challenge injustice and create change. You’ll look at real social movements, past and present, and then work on your own project to make a positive difference in your school or wider community.
What you’ll get out of taking this course:
Critical thinking and ethical reasoning skills
Understanding of worldviews and the ideas that shape societies
Skills in research, analysis, debate, and inquiry
Real-world experience through a social action project
Learning includes:
Key philosophical ideas from global and local perspectives
Inquiry into religious and secular worldviews
Study of significant people, places, and movements in history
Researching and carrying out a social action to improve your community
It’s ideal for students who enjoy big questions, meaningful discussion, and want to make a difference.
Learning Areas:
Pathway
Level 2 History Royals, Dictators, and Revolutions, Level 2 Philosophy and Social Action, Level 2 Understanding Me through Psychology
This course supports pathways in:
Social and community services (e.g. counselling, social work, youth work)
Service industries (e.g. education, tourism, hospitality)
Law, politics, journalism, and public policy
University study in the humanities, social sciences, philosophy, and religion