1. Writing an essay in philosophy

2. The kind of essays you will have as part (b) questions at AS level are worth 30 marks. Evaluate the view that being a human is a necessary condition of personhood Discuss the view that the value of art is in its capacity to represent our experience Assess the philosophical significance of a priori knowledge To what extent are determinism and morality compatible?

3. 1. Explain what motivates the position. Use an example. Why would anyone endorse the claim under consideration? What problems does it solve? Why would anyone think there is a tension between two positions? Why does it matter. 1. Explain what motivates the position. Use an example. Why would anyone endorse the claim under consideration? What problems does it solve? Why would anyone think there is a tension between two positions? Why does it matter. 2.Next, explain how it can be challenged. Identify two or three key criticisms. Explain using examples how the criticisms arise. Why is there a problem? 3.Explain how the one can respond to the criticisms. Does there remain a residual problem? 4.Conclusion – identify the commitments required to endorse the position. Can it be coherently stated?

4. Vices and Virtues  Never employ pointless phrases such as ‘for millennia great minds have pondered the question of…’  Be concise and clear. Make your sentences short. Everything you write must play a role in answering the question – words must earn their keep

5. Vices and Virtues  Your essay should have a clear structure. You can state up front the position for which you will be arguing. An essay should not be a voyage of discovery for the reader.  Don’t repeat yourself, but do make clear the main point at the end of each main section and link to the next.

6. Vices and Virtues  Read through your essay. Is it clear and coherent? Does each part play a role in addressing the question? Does the conclusion follow from the discussion? The conclusion spells out briefly your judgement – it doesn’t repeat everything you’ve just said.  Do not offer your own, pet theory. Instead you think for yourself by considering what others have said, seeing connections and deciding the right approach or answer.

7. Distribution of marks  AO1 Knowledge and Understanding 3 marks Make sure you clearly define key terms and spell out issues  A02 Interpretation, Analysis and Application 18 marks To cover this make sure you have explained the reasons for a claim or criticism, shown how points are linked and why a criticism is thought to be effective. Make use of examples to illuminate what you say.  A03Assessment and Evaluation 9 marks The structure of your essay is driven by the task of evaluation – see slide 3. Explain the reasons in support of the position, why it can be challenged and how one can respond.