Ireland · NCCA Curriculum Specifications
3rd Year Philosophy.
This Junior Cycle Philosophy short course empowers third-year students to think critically, creatively, and collaboratively about fundamental questions of human existence. It aligns with the NCCA specification, fostering philosophical dialogue and ethical reasoning to help students navigate contemporary societal issues.
01Foundations of Philosophical Thinking
Students explore the nature of philosophical inquiry, logic, and reasoning. They develop the skills necessary to participate in a Community of Philosophical Inquiry (CoPI).
Students explore what makes a question philosophical and distinguish between different types of knowledge. They practice the Community of Philosophical Inquiry (CoPI) method to foster collaborative thinking.
An introduction to constructing valid arguments and identifying common logical fallacies. Students analyse everyday claims to test their soundness and validity.
Students use classic philosophical thought experiments to stretch their imagination and test their intuitions. They learn how hypothetical scenarios help clarify complex abstract concepts.
02Philosophy of Knowledge
An investigation into epistemology, focusing on the nature of truth, belief, and certainty. Students critically evaluate how we acquire and justify knowledge in the modern world.
Students investigate the relationship between belief, justification, and truth. They examine the criteria required to claim that we 'know' something.
An exploration of philosophical scepticism, looking at thinkers who questioned the reliability of the senses. Students debate whether absolute certainty is ever possible.
Students apply epistemological concepts to modern issues like fake news, artificial intelligence, and information overload. They critically evaluate digital sources of information.
03Philosophy of Value
Students delve into ethics and morality, exploring where our values come from and how we make moral decisions. They apply ethical frameworks to real-world dilemmas.
Students explore where our sense of right and wrong originates. They compare objective moral facts with cultural relativism.
An introduction to major ethical frameworks, including utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics. Students apply these theories to complex moral dilemmas.
Students examine the concept of human rights and the moral responsibilities we have towards others in our community. They debate the balance between individual freedom and societal good.
04Philosophy in Action
Applying philosophical thinking to contemporary global issues. Students investigate environmental ethics, the philosophy of technology, and concepts of social justice.
Students investigate our moral obligations to the natural world and future generations. They debate issues surrounding climate change, sustainability, and animal rights.
An exploration of how technology shapes human identity and society. Students discuss the ethical implications of social media, privacy, and biotechnology.
Students examine different philosophical conceptions of justice, fairness, and equality. They apply these concepts to contemporary social issues in Ireland and globally.
05The Meaning of Life and Aesthetics
A concluding unit where students tackle existential questions and the philosophy of art. They reflect on their learning to articulate their own personal philosophy.
Students tackle the big questions regarding purpose, meaning, and human existence. They explore how different philosophers have approached the meaning of life.
An introduction to aesthetics, exploring what makes something beautiful or considered 'art'. Students debate the subjective versus objective nature of beauty.
A concluding topic where students reflect on their philosophical journey and how it applies to their personal lives. They consider Socrates' claim that the unexamined life is not worth living.