Philosophy Friday: Exploring Ideas Through Critical Thinking
Explore the wisdom of the ages while having FUN in this engaging philosophy class, equipping your child with tools for critical thinking, deep reflection, and intelligent questioning.
Teacher Cynthia, Master of Arts in Teaching
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(6)
What's included
1 live meeting
40 mins in-class hours per weekClass Experience
US Grade 7 - 10
In our philosophy class, we will explore a range of moral dilemmas and how the wisdom of the ages can help us to think critically and ethically about our choices. Through interactive discussions and engaging scenarios, students will have the opportunity to: Develop critical thinking and reasoning skills Analyze complex ethical dilemmas Consider the perspectives of others and develop empathy Explore the historical and contemporary perspectives of famous philosophers Reflect on personal values and ethical decision-making Our class will be structured around a series of scenarios, each designed to challenge students to consider difficult ethical questions and explore their own beliefs and values. Here's what you can expect: Scenario introduction: The class will begin with an introduction to a moral dilemma that the students may encounter in their own lives. Group discussion: Students will have the opportunity to share their initial thoughts and opinions on the scenario, considering what they would do in that situation and why. Philosopher's perspective: We will then examine the thoughts and beliefs of a famous philosopher who has written on the same topic. This will give students a broader understanding of different perspectives and ways of thinking about the scenario. Group discussion: After hearing the philosopher's perspective, we will return to the original scenario and consider how the philosopher's views might change the way we think about it. New scenario: We will then introduce a new, similar scenario that builds on the themes and concepts explored in the previous discussion. Students will have the opportunity to apply what they have learned and reflect on how our class has evolved the thinking process regarding this scenario. This class will be taught in an interactive and engaging way, with opportunities for students to ask questions, share their opinions, and participate in group discussions. My aim is to create a safe and supportive environment where students can explore complex ethical issues and develop their own critical thinking skills. Upcoming Class Topics: Is it ever morally right to tell a lie? Is it ever morally right to break the rules? Is it okay to act selfishly? Is it ever okay to break a promise? Is it ever okay to use violence to fight injustice? Is it ever okay to cheat?
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Because philosophical discussions can sometimes involve controversial topics and potentially lead to strong emotions, this class does have some ground rules that all students will be expected to follow. It is helpful to review these guidelines with your child prior to class. I will also address the rules briefly at the beginning of each class.
1. Listen and speak respectfully: Listen to others without interrupting or dismissing their viewpoints. Speak in a respectful tone and avoid using derogatory or inflammatory language.
2. Stay on topic: Stay focused on the topic being discussed and avoid straying too far from the main ideas.
3. Challenge ideas, not people: Challenge and question ideas and arguments, not the people making them.
4. Be open-minded: Be open to hearing different perspectives and be willing to revise your own views.
5. Respect differences: Respect and appreciate differences in background, experience, and opinion.
6. Follow the teacher's instructions: Follow the teacher's instructions and guidelines for the class to ensure a productive and respectful discussion.
If a student's emotional response, however, is particularly intense or disruptive, I will request for that student to take a brief break from the discussion for a few minutes to collect his/her thoughts. I will ask that the student rejoin us when the student feels more calm and ready to participate in our discussion respectfully.
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined November, 2022
5.0
6reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Virginia Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
As an experienced high school English teacher, with a BA in English and a MA in Teaching, I am qualified to teach this class. Through my knowledge of literature, I have explored many works that deal with philosophical themes and ideas, providing a solid foundation for exploring these concepts in the classroom. Additionally, my understanding of the humanities, which includes philosophy, literature, history, and art, allows me to provide a broader context for exploring philosophical ideas. Finally, my experience in facilitating classroom discussions as an English teacher gives me the skills necessary to lead engaging and productive conversations about complex philosophical concepts.Reviews
Live Group Class
$10
weekly1x per week
40 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-16
6-12 learners per class
