Philosophy
Specification: OCR-A-Level-Philosophy
This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.
0
Topics
0
Objectives
0
Exam Tips
0
Pitfalls
Key Features
- Master key concepts
- Develop exam technique
- Apply knowledge effectively
About OCR A-Level Philosophy
OCR A-Level Philosophy offers students a comprehensive introduction to some of the most enduring and profound questions in Western philosophy. The course is structured around three core components: Philosophy of Religion, Philosophy of Mind, and a combined study of Ethics and Philosophy of Language. Students will engage with key arguments and theories from ancient to contemporary thinkers, developing skills in logical analysis, critical evaluation, and precise written communication. The specification is designed to encourage independent thought and the ability to construct and assess complex philosophical arguments.
Throughout the two-year course, learners will explore topics such as the existence of God, the nature of consciousness, free will and determinism, meta-ethics, and theories of meaning. Each unit requires students to compare and contrast different philosophical positions, such as dualism versus physicalism, or naturalism versus non-naturalism in ethics. The emphasis is on understanding the strengths and weaknesses of arguments, rather than simply learning facts, preparing students for university-level study in philosophy, law, politics, or any discipline that values rigorous thinking.
The specification is logically sequenced, with each component building on core philosophical skills. It is assessed entirely through written examinations, with a focus on essay-style questions that test both knowledge and the ability to analyse and evaluate philosophical claims. This structure allows schools and colleges to teach the components in any order, and the clear mark schemes provide transparency on what examiners expect. Overall, OCR A-Level Philosophy is a robust qualification that challenges students to think deeply and express their ideas with clarity and precision.
Assessment Structure
The qualification is assessed by three externally set, written examination papers, each lasting 2 hours and worth 100 marks. Paper 1 covers Philosophy of Religion, Paper 2 covers Philosophy of Mind, and Paper 3 covers Ethics and Philosophy of Language. All three papers carry equal weighting (33.3% of the A-Level) and total 300 marks. There is no coursework or controlled assessment component. Each paper includes a mix of short-answer and extended essay questions, requiring students to demonstrate knowledge, understanding, analysis, and evaluation of philosophical arguments and concepts.
Why Choose OCR?
- OCR's Philosophy specification is known for its clear, well-structured topics that allow for in-depth study of key areas without overwhelming breadth. This focused approach enables students to gain genuine expertise in the philosophy of religion, mind, ethics, and language, which is excellent preparation for university.
- The assessment style is entirely exam-based, which suits students who prefer terminal assessments over ongoing coursework. The questions are designed to reward careful argumentation and critical thinking, and the mark schemes are transparent, helping teachers and students know exactly what is required for high grades.
- OCR provides extensive support materials, including exemplar essays, past papers, and detailed specifications that make planning and revision straightforward. The board also has a reputation for approachable and consistent examiners’ reports, giving students confidence in how their work will be judged.
Frequently Asked Questions
Assessment Objectives
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the core concepts and methods of philosophy, including through the use of philosophical analysis
Analyse and evaluate philosophical arguments to form reasoned judgements
What Gets Top Grades
Knowledge & Understanding
Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge
- Uses correct subject-specific terminology
- Shows detailed understanding of concepts
- Makes accurate connections between topics
- Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge
Application
Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts
- Selects relevant knowledge for the question
- Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
- Uses examples appropriately
- Shows awareness of context
Analysis & Evaluation
Develops sophisticated analytical arguments
- Constructs logical chains of reasoning
- Considers multiple perspectives
- Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
- Acknowledges limitations and nuances
Key Command Words
Give a single fact or term
Name or select
Account of process or features
Give reasons with BUSINESS-FACING outcomes
Examine methodically showing cause→effect→outcome
Judge, weigh up evidence, reach SYNOPTIC conclusion
Specification Topics
No curriculum content available for this specification yet.
Ready to master Philosophy?
Start practising with AI-powered quizzes tailored to your OCR A-Level specification. Every new account includes 7 days of full Premium — no card needed.
Get Started Free