Sophie's World and Philosophy

Our primary objective in this course is to gain an preliminary understanding of many of the most important developments in the history of philosophy through this introductory text. We will also be exploring what plot devices and other techniques are used by the author (Jostein Gaarder) to convey his profound concepts on the nature of "literary realism" and philosophy of mind. Students who complete this course are likely to be well ahead of their peers in being familiar with ideas and movements in philosophy and history, as well as being aware of the many ways philosophers have exercised critical thinking and reasoning to contribute to the broader conversation throughout the course of Western civilization.

I have twice taught philosophy as a trimester-length course in public high school in addition to offering philosophy courses here on Outschool. I have found Sophie's World to be a wonderful segue into this deep and important discipline in its ability to incorporate its teachings into its engaging fictional plot. I have loved introducing students to the ideas and movements of thought that have shaped our world and continue to shape it today. I truly believe that it is the philosophical thinkers who will be the best candidates for world leaders and global problem solvers in the years to come. 

Each weekly reading installment comprises 2-3 chapters of the book between meetings (following the first class). 

Additionally, a handout of comprehension questions and journal prompts regarding the next installment will be available each week in the class forum for completing prior to next class. These handouts are offered through both Google Docs and PDF download and are expected to be turned in by midnight the night before class. They will be returned with corrections and comments from the teacher. A Certificate of Completion will be awarded to those who successfully turn in all handouts (16 total) throughout the course.

Students will also be invited to write a final optional essay. Students are expected to discuss and collaborate with the teacher and each other in the writing of the final essay which will be presented to other students and the teacher during the Student Symposium held on Day 17. A Certificate of Excellence for the course will be awarded based on the quality of their resulting essay and presentation.

Homework will be given for students to fill out and turn in, to which I will be recording personalized commentaries to help guide the student along their philosophical journey. Furthermore, game-style comprehensive check for understanding (CFU, or "Mastery Check") will be given in the final lesson to review old material and test for student comprehension. A mini-Mastery Check will also be given at the end of each class as a comprehension check.

See the Homework section above for details on eligibility for certificates based on students' comprehension-based work throughout the course.

1 hour 25 minutes per week in class, and an estimated 2 - 4 hours per week outside of class.

Access to the book Sophie's World is a requirement for this class. You can borrow a copy from your local library or buy your own copy here: https://amzn.to/32rrLXg

Note: I offer this link as an affiliate of Amazon's, meaning that, while you do not pay more for the book, Amazon pays me a small commission for recommending your purchase. Any commissions received helps me afford to making teaching and tutoring a sustainable means of income for me, however, you are never required in my classes to make purchases through this means if it does not suit you to do so.