Camp Kid Philosopher for Middle Schoolers (What IS Philosophy Anyway?)
What IS philosophy (as an actual discipline) anyway? This is a common question that I love to address, because I didn't know until college! Introduce your student to this academic discipline in a fun, engaging, and relevant-to-life way!
Ms. Melissa (M.A. Former University Lecturer)
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(9)
What's included
4 live meetings
3 in-class hoursMastery Evaluation
1 hour per week. After each session, I will post a "Check Your Understanding" quiz that can be completed, attached, and sent to me via Outschool messaging.Class Experience
US Grade 6 - 8
Beginner Level
* Important: Due to the discussion-based and interactive nature of the class, cameras are required to be kept on for the duration of class. Thank you! :) As a former Introduction to Philosophy and Introduction to Ethics professor as well as volunteer teacher of philosophy classes for kids and teens, my university-inspired Philosophy 101 kids classes are designed to introduce young people to the discipline of philosophy as well as what it means to live in the world as a philosopher. Yes - philosophers are not only people from ancient times and a true philosopher can look like ALL of us! My specialty is making the discipline of philosophy fun, relevant, and accessible to all people. The class will be discussion-based as we enjoy chatting with each other about key areas of what it means to be a philosopher in the world and why kids of all ages not only are natural philosophers, but also that they do not have to wait until they are older or take a college class to be philosophical! The topics below will be explored during this introduction to the discipline of philosophy: Week 1: What is Philosophy? Part 1: Traits of a Philosophical Person Week 2: What is Philosophy? Part 2: Western Philosophy’s Origins in Ancient Greece Week 3: What is Philosophy? Part 3: Philosophy Today and Main Branches in the Discipline Week 4: What is Philosophy? Part 4: The Role of Critical Thinking, Argument, and Debate This is a beginner's course for kids with no prior knowledge of philosophy. I offer a variety of class options for students who find themselves in a more advanced position including one-on-one tutoring opportunities. *In addition, all enrollees in the the camp may join the Philosophy Club for a discounted price where they can enjoy additional practice exploring fun conversation challenges with other learners who are also interested in having more philosophical discussions! The club's focus is a more informal and relaxed environment so a perfect place to just have some extra philosophical chat time!
Learning Goals
Learners will be introduced to the academic discipline of philosophy in a fun, engaging, and conversationalist style.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum4 Lessons
over 4 WeeksLesson 1:
What is Philosophy? Part 1: Traits of a Philosophical Person
In this lesson, we will reflect on what the traits are of a philosophical person, so we can personally relate to what extent we are already philosophical, but also realize that being a philosopher is about the way someone engages with the world rather than anything about their physical characteristics or even age. "Philosophy begins in wonder" - Plato. 45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
What is Philosophy? Part 2: Western Philosophy's Origins in Ancient Greece
In this lesson, we will explore why ancient Greece is credited with the birthplace of Western Philosophy. 45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
What is Philosophy? Part 3: Philosophy Today and Main Branches in the Discipline
In this lesson, we will discuss what philosophy is as an academic discipline in modern times, and what it has in common with its roots, history, as well as its value into the future. 45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
What is Philosophy? Part 4: The Role of Critical Thinking, Argument, and Debate
In this lesson, we will look more closely at the vital role critical thinking, rational argumentation, and logical debate plays in the academic discipline of philosophy. 45 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
I do not plan to share any media, but this class will allow for the free exchange of ideas from the learners. Therefore, parents can decide if the open-discussion nature of the class is a good fit for their young learner(s). Of course, all discussions will always be moderated in a way to keep examples and views relevant, appropriate, and in line with Outschool's policies.
Supply List
Students may benefit from having a "Philosopher's Notebook" for the class to jot down terms we learn during the meeting, any questions that arise during or after class, and/or consider using it to engage in philosophical reflections after class or throughout the week. Some students find it fun to create art while chatting, so a notebook or paper might be good to have close by, but it is not required.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined January, 2023
5.0
9reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Master's Degree from Old Dominion University
I am a former university lecturer that specialized in making introductory courses fun, engaging, and relevant to everyday life. I have over 16 years of experience teaching at the university level, where I held the position of Master Lecturer before I left to focus on homeschooling my son full-time. In addition, I have over 3 formal years teaching philosophy courses to kids, ages 6-16. I volunteered at both a local public high school as well as a private school alongside performing my teaching duties at the university. I also have been teaching my son Philosophy since the age of 4, and continue to do so! Reviews
Live Group Course
$15
weekly or $60 for 4 classes1x per week, 4 weeks
45 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-13
2-8 learners per class
