HZT4U: Philosophy (University Preparation)
PREREQUISITE: Any university or university/college preparation course in social sciences and humanities, English, or Canadian and world studies
GRADE: 12 (University)
AVAILABILITY: Spark Asher Academy Online
THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM: Social Science and Humanities
Course Overview
HZT4U online is designed to immerse students in the complex world of philosophical thought and reasoning. Through exploring various branches of philosophy, students will develop a deep understanding of the nature of knowledge, reality, and values, and how these areas guide human conduct and the structure of society. The course facilitates the development of critical thinking, argument analysis, and philosophical reasoning, which are essential skills not only in academic contexts but also in everyday decision-making.
UNIT ONE: Research and Inquiry Skills & Philosophical Foundations
Essential Question: How do we know what is true? How does society influence philosophical thought?
- This introductory unit focuses on the fundamentals of philosophical inquiry and reasoning. Students will explore different branches of philosophy and learn how to construct and deconstruct philosophical arguments. They will investigate how historical and social contexts influence philosophical thought.
UNIT TWO: Metaphysics
Essential Question: What is reality? What constitutes the self? Do we have free will?
- Students delve into metaphysics, the branch of philosophy concerned with the nature of existence, reality, and the universe. Key topics include discussions on the nature of objects, identity, time, and free will. This unit encourages students to question the very foundation of reality and their existence.
UNIT THREE: Ethics
Essential Question: What constitutes a “good” life? Is there a universal standard for morality?
- In this unit, students explore ethical theories and principles that govern decisions about right and wrong. Discussions will focus on moral relativism versus moral objectivism, the role of ethics in human behavior, and the implications of ethical reasoning in modern-day scenarios.
UNIT FOUR: Social and Political Philosophy
Essential Question: What is justice? What rights should individuals have?
- This unit examines theories of state and government, justice, rights, and freedoms. Students will analyze different political ideologies and assess their implications on liberty, equality, and justice in contemporary societal contexts.
UNIT FIVE: Aesthetics
Essential Question: What is beauty? Can aesthetic judgments be objective?
- Aesthetics will be explored in terms of philosophical reflections on art and beauty. Students will discuss whether beauty is truly in the ‘eye of the beholder’ or if there are objective standards that define it. The role of art in society and the nature of artistic expression will also be major focal points.
Assessment
- Coursework (70%): Students will engage in a variety of assessments including written assignments, discussion posts, and presentations that demonstrate their understanding of philosophical concepts and their ability to apply these concepts to both historical and contemporary issues.
- Final Evaluation (30%): The course culminates in a final project and exam, assessing students’ comprehensive understanding of philosophical theories and their application to real-world situations.
HZT4U online not only aims to deepen students’ knowledge of philosophy but also to enhance their ability to think critically about the ethical, aesthetic, and metaphysical questions that influence human culture and knowledge. Through this course, students are prepared for rigorous academic pursuits in philosophy and other disciplines that value analytical thinking and ethical reasoning.
For more details on final exams and the exam fee, please consult to us directly via contact page. Additional information can be found in our download section in courses page.
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