Wolff, Robert Paul. About Philosophy. 8Th Edition. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall, 2000
Philosophy
Mr. Hobdell
2016-2017 Syllabus
Phone: 610.627.6374 E-mail:
Materials:
Wolff, Robert Paul. About Philosophy. 8th Edition. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall, 2000.
Gaarder, Jostein. Sophie’s World. New York: Berkley Books, 1991.
Students should also have with them every day:
· a notebook specific to the course (this class only) and IPad
· a folder or binder for handouts.
· a pen or pencil
Course: Why study philosophy? What is it? The truth is, there is no one type of philosophy. According to your textbook, philosophy is “the systematic, critical examination of the way in which we judge, evaluate, and act, with the aim of making ourselves wiser, more self-reflective, and better men and women (Wolff, 419).” This course has two main objectives. First, most colleges require philosophy courses. I want to give you a basic understanding of the subject so that you will be better prepared when you graduate. Second, I want to make you better thinkers. Philosophy is not always sitting in the woods pondering the existence of the world. Thinking philosophically means opening your mind and examining all possibilities so that you may come to the best conclusion. In the process, philosophical thinkers learn the way other people think, thus promoting a better understanding of cultures and the way the world operates.
Content: The course is comprised of seven main sections, listed as follows:
What is Philosophy? Ethics
The Theory of Knowledge Social and Political Philosophy
Metaphysics Philosophy of Religion
Philosophy of Science
In each section we will identify major themes and ideas and examine the philosophers who provided the greatest contribution to that particular field. At the end of each section we will examine a relevant current issue and apply what we have learned.
Evaluation: The ways in which you will be evaluated come in four categories: homework, class participation, reflections, and tests. Each is described below.
Homework: Homework will be posted on my website and homework board. The average of all homework scores counts towards 20% of your marking period grade. Even when no written homework is assigned, you are responsible for reviewing any previous work (notes, handouts, etc.). Homework may conist of assignments that will be checked for points. If you are absent you must show me your homework the next day you are in-class. Make-up homework will be accepted for one point for one week after the original assigned due date.
Class Participation: Class participation counts towards 20% of your marking period grade. Proper participation includes preparedness for class and completing/participating in class assignments. Random notebook checks, in-class assignments, and participation in class discussion and group work may all contribute to one’s class participation grade.
Reflection: Reflection is an important component of philosophy. Many concepts presented in the course are asbtract in nature and require critical thinking to fully develop ideas presented in the course. Reflection assignments will be administered and count as 20% of your course grade. Reflections will be assessed utilizing a rubric.
Tests: Tests will be designed to test a variety of skills and will progressively get more challenging as you prepare for college and the working world. Typically, but not always, there will be a review session the day before the test only (not quizzes). Tests constitute 40% of your marking period grade. The make up policy for quizzes applies to tests.
Projects, Books, etc. Each marking period you will have at least one particular extra assignment. This could be an outside reading, a research paper, a speech, a debate, a creative assignment, or the like. They will be announced during the marking period and will carry a certain weight in the test category.
Learning Enhancement/Office Hours: I am available any time you feel you need it. However, it is your responsibility to come see me. I recommend makng an appointment and cite specific issues you want to work on when we meet.
Questions: If you do not understand something or are unsure of something ask. Remember, you are responsible for your own education.
Academic Integrity: I expect honest, independent work from all students at all times. Any academic dishonesty will result in a zero for the assignment in questions and an automatic zero in class participation for the marking period. Refer to the building’s academic honesty policy if you have questions.
Electronics in class:
Electronics (cellphones/Ipads/etc.) are not to be used or visible in class unless Mr. Hobdell is allowing for their use in/on/or during an activity. Electronics should be SILENT AND AWAY from the moment of entering the room to the the time of leaving the room. Violation of this rule will be a detention – NO WARNING PROVIDED.