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How To Get An A Or A* In A-level Philosophy?

Written by Shahid Lakha, Spires Co-Founder

To achieve an A or A* in A-Level Philosophy with the AQA syllabus, it is necessary to gain a comprehensive understanding of the four modules: Epistemology, Moral Philosophy, Metaphysics of God, and Metaphysics of Mind. Success in these areas involves crafting structured, analytical responses that effectively address both knowledge and evaluation objectives. Employing precise philosophical terminology and maintaining a critical engagement with arguments are also vital.

Consistent use of exam techniques, active revision strategies, and regular practice under timed conditions are crucial for success. There are specific methods available that can further refine these core skills, facilitating enhanced performance in assessments.

TLDR

Master core theories and arguments in Epistemology, Moral Philosophy, Metaphysics of God, and Metaphysics of Mind, using accurate terminology and critical analysis.
Structure essays with clear introductions, balanced AO1/AO2 content, logical paragraphs, and justified conclusions directly answering the exam question.
Practice past papers under timed conditions, review examiner reports, and refine technique using model answers and feedback.
Define concepts precisely, evaluate arguments systematically, and avoid merely descriptive responses by demonstrating depth and originality in analysis.
Use active revision strategies—mind maps, concise summaries, and essay plans—to organise knowledge and improve clarity, structure, and depth in written work.

Introduction to the AQA A-Level Philosophy Syllabus

The AQA A-Level Philosophy syllabus, introduced in 2017 under specification code 7172, is organised into four core modules: Epistemology, Moral Philosophy, Metaphysics of God, and Metaphysics of Mind.

Each module requires a detailed exploration of fundamental concepts, arguments, and their critiques. Success in this course depends on mastering the assessment objectives, particularly AO1 and AO2. These objectives evaluate students’ ability to explain philosophical ideas clearly and to construct well-reasoned evaluations through various question formats, including essays and short answers.

Understanding the exam board’s expectations and mark schemes is crucial, as these define the depth of analysis required and the techniques that distinguish high-quality responses from those that are less effective.

Key Areas: Epistemology, Moral Philosophy, Metaphysics of God, and Metaphysics of Mind

Students embarking on the AQA A-Level Philosophy course (syllabus code 7172) soon find that success requires proficiency in four key areas: Epistemology, Moral Philosophy, Metaphysics of God, and Metaphysics of Mind. Each module introduces essential concepts and theories, demanding rigorous critical thinking and skilful application of exam techniques.

To effectively engage in philosophical study, students should focus on:

Epistemology: This area involves understanding the nature of knowledge and the grounds for justification. It explores questions such as “What can we know?” and “How do we know what we know?”
Moral Philosophy: This module evaluates ethical theories and principles. Students examine various frameworks for determining right and wrong, such as utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics.
Metaphysics of God: In this section, students analyse arguments concerning the existence and attributes of a divine being. Topics may include the ontological, cosmological, and teleological arguments, as well as challenges such as the problem of evil.
Metaphysics of Mind: This area explores the nature of consciousness and personal identity. It addresses questions about the mind-body relationship, the nature of mental states, and what constitutes personal identity over time.

Mastery of these areas not only enriches philosophical understanding but also hones critical thinking skills applicable across various fields.

Assessment Objectives and Exam Format

Success in AQA A-Level Philosophy relies on understanding the assessment framework and effectively demonstrating knowledge. Mastery involves meeting assessment objectives and navigating the exam format with precision.

The mark scheme rewards well-structured, coherent responses tailored to each question type. Candidates should focus on the following strategies:

Distinguish between AO1 (knowledge) and AO2 (analysis/evaluation) requirements.
Adapt your approach to suit 3, 5, 12, and 25 mark questions.
Structure essays with clear and logical progression.
Practice under timed conditions to optimise performance.

Exam Board Expectations and Mark Schemes

A thorough understanding of exam board expectations and mark schemes is crucial for success in AQA A-Level Philosophy. These criteria are fundamental to assessment and significantly influence the strategies used by high-achieving candidates. The mark scheme specifies the assessment criteria for AO1 (knowledge and understanding) and AO2 (analysis and evaluation), tailored to each question type. Examiners look for a clear application of philosophical concepts, relevant examples, and critical engagement. Using sample answer plans, examiner feedback, and a comprehensive understanding of exam expectations can significantly enhance performance.

Question Type	AO1 Focus	AO2 Focus
3/5 mark	Precision, clarity	Brief justification
12 mark	Detailed explanation	Structured argument
25 mark	Holistic scope	Critical evaluation

Mastering Philosophy Content: Building Strong Foundations

Mastery of A-Level Philosophy requires a solid grasp of its core concepts, such as the nature of knowledge, the role of reason, and the application of critical thinking. These elements are essential for success in all modules.

Students must engage systematically with key debates in epistemology, moral philosophy’s ethical theories, arguments about the existence of God, and differing perspectives on the mind.

It is important that students can articulate definitions, evaluate significant theories, and address philosophical scepticism with assurance.

Core Concepts: Knowledge, Reason, and Critical Thinking

To excel in A-Level Philosophy, a thorough understanding of core concepts such as knowledge, reason, and critical thinking is essential, as these form the intellectual foundation of advanced philosophical inquiry. Mastery in these areas enables students to engage in thoughtful dialogue and conduct responsible analysis.

To build a robust foundation, one should:

Differentiate between types of knowledge, such as propositional and procedural.
Use logical reasoning to evaluate the strength of philosophical concepts.
Practice argument analysis by assessing assumptions and counterarguments.
Construct clear, evidence-based arguments, refining ideas for clarity and impact.

Epistemology: Definitions, Theories, and Philosophical Scepticism

A-Level Philosophy students must delve into epistemology, the philosophical study of the nature, origins, and justification of knowledge. Mastery in this area involves defining knowledge, often considered as justified true belief, and critically examining theories such as empiricism and rationalism.

Students should explore philosophical scepticism, which questions the possibility of certainty, and understand the implications of the Gettier problem, which reveals potential shortcomings in traditional definitions.

Through comparative analysis and the use of clear examples, students can engage in nuanced philosophical discussions, contributing to a deeper understanding of the subject.

Moral Philosophy: Ethical Theories, Virtue Ethics, and Deontology

A deep understanding of moral philosophy is a key element of success in A-Level Philosophy. Students must not only comprehend foundational ethical theories but also critically assess and apply them to both theoretical and practical situations.

The AQA syllabus requires extensive knowledge of virtue ethics, which focuses on the development of character and virtues, as well as deontology, which prioritises duty and adherence to moral laws.

Mastery involves distinguishing between moral absolutism and relativism, analysing the roles of intention and consequence, and applying these frameworks to contemporary dilemmas.

Students must articulate strengths and weaknesses with clarity and analytical depth.

Metaphysics of God: Arguments for and Against God’s Existence

Achieving a high grade in A-Level Philosophy requires a comprehensive understanding of the metaphysics of God, with a focus on the classical arguments both supporting and challenging God’s existence. These arguments are integral to the curriculum and provide a framework for critical analysis.

Students must become adept in the ontological argument, which proposes the necessity of God’s existence through conceptual analysis; the cosmological argument, which infers a first cause or necessary being from the universe’s existence; and the teleological argument, which appeals to apparent order and purpose in the world.

Engaging effectively in philosophical debate involves evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of each argument, integrating logical reasoning and contemporary scientific perspectives.

Metaphysics of Mind: Dualism, Physicalism, and Consciousness

In examining the metaphysics of mind, students must assess dualist and physicalist arguments with a focus on their logical coherence and explanatory power. Key philosophers, such as Aristotle and Kant, have significantly contributed to these debates.

It is necessary to evaluate how well these positions address challenges like mental causation and the hard problem of consciousness, often exemplified by thought experiments such as the Chinese Room.

A-Level mastery requires the ability to articulate nuanced comparisons, understand core philosophical concepts, and reference significant thinkers effectively to support well-structured essays.

Strengths and Weaknesses of Philosophical Arguments

How can one effectively evaluate philosophical arguments concerning the metaphysics of mind, especially regarding dualism, physicalism, and consciousness? A critical evaluation requires a systematic analysis of both strengths and weaknesses, facilitating informed debate and deeper understanding. The following table outlines key aspects for insightful critique:

Strengths	Weaknesses
Explains subjective experience	Faces the interaction problem
Supported by neuroscientific data	Lacks empirical support

In evaluating these philosophical perspectives, it is essential to consider how well they account for subjective experience. This is a strength, as it addresses the personal aspect of consciousness, which is often overlooked in purely objective analyses. However, dualism, in particular, struggles with the interaction problem, questioning how non-physical and physical substances interact.

Physicalism, on the other hand, benefits from support by neuroscientific data, grounding its claims in empirical research. Nonetheless, it often lacks empirical support for explaining subjective experiences fully, highlighting a critical area for further investigation and debate.

Debates and Key Philosophers: Aristotle, Kant, and More

Debates concerning the metaphysics of mind continue to engage philosophers and students due to the enduring questions about the nature of consciousness and its relationship to the physical world.

Central to these discussions are Aristotle’s theory of the inseparable nature of soul and body, the dualistic notion of distinct substances for mind and body, and the physicalist view that mental states are inherently physical.

Key concepts and philosophers include:

Aristotle’s view of the unity of body and soul.
Dualism, which posits a separation between mind and body.
Physicalism, asserting that mental states are physical phenomena.
Kant’s exploration of noumena, phenomena, and consciousness.

Effective Revision Techniques for A-Level Philosophy with Spires Online Tutors

To achieve success in A-Level Philosophy, students should adopt active revision methods such as creating bullet point summaries and mind maps. These tools help distil complex information into clear concept maps and structured essay plans.

Regular practice with past papers is crucial, as it helps in understanding question wording and improving exam technique, which in turn in enhances time management.

Utilising Spires’ online learning platform, which offers targeted quizzes, model answers, and personalised feedback, allows learners to identify areas needing improvement and systematically strengthen their revision strategies.

Active Revision Strategies: Bullet Point Summaries and Mind Maps

Active revision strategies, such as bullet point summaries and mind maps, are highly regarded by educational experts for their effectiveness in A-Level Philosophy. These techniques promote active learning and memory retention, helping students simplify complex concepts and organise ideas efficiently.

Spires Online Tutors recommend incorporating these strategies for examination success:

Create concise bullet point summaries for each philosophical module to capture key points.
Develop mind maps to visually connect theories, arguments, and relationships, providing a clear overview.
Use both tools together to identify and address any gaps in knowledge.
Regularly review and refine summaries and maps to ensure information is retained effectively.

Condensing the Information: Concept Maps and Essay Plans

Active revision techniques, such as bullet point summaries and mind maps, can be further enhanced through the use of concept maps and detailed essay plans, as recommended for A-Level Philosophy by Spires Online Tutors. These visual tools help simplify complex philosophical theories and aid in exam preparation and retention.

Effective revision strategies include:

Using concept maps to visually arrange philosophical ideas and their relationships.
Crafting essay plans to structure balanced and coherent responses, focusing on AO1 and AO2.
Regularly updating these visual tools to ensure thorough understanding of the syllabus.
Combining both methods to boost exam confidence and performance.

Past Paper Practice: Analysing Questions and Improving Technique

How can students effectively connect their theoretical understanding with exam success in A-Level Philosophy? Practising with past papers is crucial as it allows for focused question analysis and builds familiarity with the mark scheme and examiner expectations. By regularly engaging with various question types and examining model answers, students can refine their exam technique and enhance their ability to plan responses, ensuring their answers are well-structured and logically sound. Spires Online Tutors advise rigorous self-assessment and consulting examiner reports to avoid common mistakes and consistently achieve assessment objectives.

Practice Method	Benefit
Question Analysis	Aligns with assessment objectives
Mark Scheme Review	Clarifies criteria for high marks
Answer Planning	Improves structure and clarity
Timed Practice	Develops time management skills
Self-Assessment	Highlights areas for improvement

Making the Most of Spires’ Online Learning Platform for Revision

In the challenging environment of A-Level Philosophy revision, utilising Spires’ online learning platform provides students with a strategic advantage. Its range of targeted resources aligns with the specific requirements of the AQA philosophy syllabus.

By following customised revision plans, students can focus their efforts on weaker areas, while interactive tools such as practice questions and quizzes reinforce conceptual understanding and refine exam techniques.

Live tutorials and feedback sessions offer personalised clarification and essay improvement. Additionally, the extensive collection of model answers and exam-style questions helps learners to understand assessment criteria, boosting their confidence and competence.

These resources are particularly beneficial for those striving to excel academically.

Excelling in the Philosophy Exam: Proven Exam Techniques

Achieving success in a philosophy exam involves a systematic approach, starting with a thorough understanding of each question’s requirements and careful planning of responses.

Students should write well-structured essays that include detailed analysis, balanced evaluation, and clear argumentation.

Incorporating feedback from practice answers allows students to refine their skills effectively.

Managing time efficiently during the exam, along with the strategic use of examples and counterarguments, ensures that responses are comprehensive and meet the highest assessment standards.

Understanding the Question and Planning Responses

In navigating A-Level Philosophy examinations, it is crucial for candidates to accurately interpret the questions, as success relies on both subject knowledge and a clear understanding of the requirements.

Effective analysis of questions, planning, and exam strategy are necessary for producing thoughtful and well-structured responses.

Candidates should:

Identify command words to determine the required approach.
Outline AO1 and AO2 points to create a balanced argument.
Use a structured format with clear topic sentences and syntheses.
Manage time effectively to address all parts of complex questions thoroughly.

Structuring Philosophy Essays for Maximum Marks

To ensure philosophy essays consistently receive high marks, candidates should adhere to a structured approach. Begin with an introduction that clearly outlines the thesis and approach to addressing the question.

The main body should be organised into coherent paragraphs, each starting with a topic sentence that contributes to the logical development of the argument. Accurate use of philosophical terminology is essential.

High-scoring essays present a balanced argument by fairly examining both supporting and opposing viewpoints, supported by relevant examples.

The conclusion must succinctly summarise the key points and clearly articulate the candidate’s justified position. This ensures the essay thoroughly addresses all aspects of the question and demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Analysis, Evaluation, and Effective Argumentation

What distinguishes A-Level Philosophy students who achieve the highest grades from those who remain at average levels? The primary difference lies in their proficiency in analysis, evaluation, and effective argumentation. These skills require rigorous critical thinking, precise essay composition, and refined exam strategies. Successful students construct well-balanced arguments, critique opposing viewpoints, and tailor their responses to fit specific question formats. By studying exemplary essays, they communicate both persuasively and logically, striving for clarity and coherence. The table below outlines essential strategies:

Skill	Purpose	Exam Technique
Argument	Present logical positions	Use a clear structure
Evaluation	Assess strengths/weaknesses	Critically compare viewpoints
Critical Thinking	Challenge assumptions	Justify final thoughts
Essay Structure	Organise ideas coherently	Employ signposting
Communication	Aid reader understanding	Write with clarity and precision

Mastery of these skills provides students with the tools needed to excel, grounding their responses in logical reasoning and clear expression.

Making Use of Feedback to Refine Skills

Achieving the highest distinction in A-Level Philosophy often requires students to effectively utilise feedback for skill refinement. Through careful analysis of examiner comments and comparison of their practice essays to model responses, students can make significant progress.

By examining examiner reports, students identify the characteristics of high-scoring responses, allowing them to adjust their revision strategies accordingly. Aligning each practice essay with the marking criteria and incorporating examiner suggestions helps address deficiencies in structure, clarity, and depth.

This process enables students to steadily improve their skills, enhancing their philosophical capabilities.

Time Management in Exam Conditions

Managing time effectively during the A-Level Philosophy exam is crucial for achieving the best possible results. Subject knowledge is important, but strategic time management can greatly affect a candidate’s ability to meet exam criteria.

Consider the following strategies:

Allocate specific time blocks for each question based on its mark value. This ensures that each section receives appropriate attention and prevents rushing through or lingering too long on any one question.
Regularly practice with timed mock exams to develop an instinct for pacing. Familiarity with exam conditions helps in managing stress and improving efficiency during the actual exam.
Prioritise brief planning of answers. This step streamlines ideas and ensures that responses remain focused and relevant.
Engage in targeted revision using past papers. This refines timing and helps in understanding the structure and types of questions likely to appear, enabling more effective preparation.

Using Spires for Expert Support with Exam Strategy

Navigating the demands of the A-Level Philosophy exam requires a strong grasp of philosophical concepts and the implementation of effective exam strategies. Spires offers valuable support by providing tailored exam technique guides and structured approaches for each question type, aligning with the AQA syllabus.

Model answers and essay plans demonstrate clear, logical argumentation, targeting assessment objectives directly. Comprehensive practice materials build confidence and fluency, enabling students to master exam strategies and communicate complex philosophical arguments effectively.

Developing Advanced Writing Skills in Philosophy

Developing advanced writing skills in philosophy requires clarity, precision, and authority. Students must construct logically sound arguments, supported by relevant evidence, while using philosophical terminology accurately.

Success in this endeavour also relies on the ability to engage in philosophical questioning and critical evaluation, avoiding pitfalls such as ambiguity, unsupported claims, or imbalanced analysis.

Targeted support from Spires Online Tutors can offer structured feedback and expert guidance, helping students to refine their writing and consistently communicate complex ideas with confidence.

Clarity, Precision, and Authority in Academic Writing

A distinguishing feature of high-quality academic writing in A-Level Philosophy is the ability to convey complex ideas with clarity, precision, and authority, ensuring arguments are both comprehensible and persuasive. To achieve academic effectiveness, students should focus on the following:

Achieving clarity and precision by using concise language to articulate philosophical arguments without ambiguity.
Defining concepts accurately, ensuring key terms are clearly explained and consistently applied throughout the essay.
Structuring arguments logically, with well-developed paragraphs and a coherent progression of ideas.
Revising diligently, removing vagueness and reinforcing the authority and persuasiveness of the writing.

Constructing Logical Arguments with Evidence

Mastery of philosophical concepts forms the foundation of academic success, yet the ability to construct logical arguments supported by robust evidence distinguishes high-achieving students in A-Level Philosophy. Logical reasoning requires a clear argument structure, where each premise is precisely defined to support the conclusion directly. Incorporating evidence from philosophical texts or well-chosen examples increases the credibility of arguments. Balancing different perspectives, demonstrating critical thinking, and using logical connectors ensure coherence throughout the essay. Synthesising arguments in a concise final thought, while addressing counter-arguments, reflects advanced understanding and a commitment to clear, well-supported reasoning.

Element	Purpose
Logical Reasoning	Ensures arguments follow a valid structure
Evidence	Substantiates claims, increasing credibility
Critical Thinking	Balances views, deepens analysis
Coherence	Maintains clarity and persuasive flow

Philosophical Questioning and Critical Evaluation

Achieving excellence in A-Level Philosophy involves more than constructing logical arguments. It requires the ability to engage in philosophical questioning and critical evaluation throughout one’s writing.

To effectively communicate and serve others, candidates should master the following:

Consistently apply argument analysis to dissect and assess competing viewpoints. This involves breaking down arguments to understand their components and comparing them critically.
Ensure concept clarification by precisely defining all key terms. This eliminates ambiguity and enhances the clarity of the argument.
Integrate critical evaluation by weighing arguments’ strengths and weaknesses, referencing philosophers where appropriate. This involves not only identifying flaws and merits but also situating the discussion within the broader philosophical discourse.
Demonstrate strong exam technique by structuring responses with clear introductions, balanced body paragraphs, and summaries. This approach facilitates the examiner’s understanding and engagement with the material.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Students aiming for high grades in A-Level Philosophy often unintentionally hinder their performance by making avoidable errors. These include submitting answers that are more descriptive than analytical and failing to address the command words and assessment objectives specified in exam questions. Common errors involve not providing clear definitions, lacking in critical analysis, and relying on rote memorisation rather than structured essay planning. To meet examiners’ expectations and achieve higher marks, students should focus on precise explanations and a logical essay structure. The table below outlines the key differences between descriptive and analytical approaches in philosophical writing:

Descriptive Approach	Analytical Approach
Summarises content	Evaluates arguments
Ignores assessment objectives	Addresses all objectives
Lacks clear definitions	Defines key terms explicitly
Relies on memorised material	Applies critical analysis
Omits direct question answer	Final remarks address the question

How Spires Online Tutors Can Help Improve Your Writing Skills

How can students elevate their philosophical writing from competent to exceptional? Spires Online Tutors provide focused support designed to refine writing skills, specifically tailored to the AQA syllabus. Through expert feedback, students learn advanced examination techniques, ensuring every essay structure is logically sound and well-organised.

Tutors assist learners in employing precise philosophical terminology, developing nuanced arguments, and addressing AO1 and AO2 assessment objectives. Personalised exercises, modelled on real exam questions, enhance clarity, coherence, and balance in introductions, discussions, and conclusions.

This comprehensive approach enables students to communicate complex ideas effectively and optimise their marks.

Using Spires Online Tutors to Support Philosophy A-Level Success

Spires Online Tutors provides students with personalised, one-to-one guidance that aligns precisely with the AQA Philosophy syllabus. This approach ensures a concentrated focus on mastering both content and examination techniques.

Through specialised support in revision, exam practice, and essay writing, students receive expert feedback and structured strategies. These are designed to address specific areas of improvement and reinforce core philosophical concepts.

This tailored instruction enables students to set and meet their personal academic objectives within the philosophy curriculum, ultimately enhancing their potential to achieve high grades.

One-to-One Expert Guidance Aligned with the AQA Syllabus

With the increasing complexity of the AQA Philosophy A-Level syllabus, students striving for high grades benefit from tailored, expert instruction that addresses the demands of modules including Epistemology, Moral Philosophy, and the Metaphysics of God and Mind.

Spires Online Tutors offers personalised guidance, focusing on syllabus alignment and the development of exam techniques and essay-writing skills. Their expert tutoring supports academic achievement by:

Simplifying complex philosophical arguments into understandable concepts.
Providing detailed feedback on essay structure and clarity.
Customising instruction to suit each student’s learning style.
Offering flexible schedules to accommodate various commitments.

Targeted Help with Revision, Exam Practice, and Essay Writing

A-Level Philosophy is often one of the most intellectually challenging subjects for students, requiring not only a deep comprehension of complex theories but also the skill to present nuanced arguments under exam conditions.

Spires Online Tutors offers focused assistance through tailored revision and exam practice, supporting students in refining their essay writing and achieving assessment objectives. Their method includes:

Expert-led tutorials that simplify philosophical concepts, making revision more accessible.
Personalised feedback on practice essays to improve argumentative clarity.
Structured exam practice to hone question strategies and time management skills.
Guidance on accurate terminology and balanced essay construction to achieve high marks.

Achieving Personal Goals in the Philosophy Curriculum

Students can transform their aspirations for A-level Philosophy into measurable academic achievements by utilising the resources offered by Spires Online Tutors. This platform enables learners to articulate and pursue personal goals with customised support designed to master the syllabus.

Expert tutors focus on refining exam techniques and developing critical thinking skills, offering tailored lesson plans and insightful feedback across all four modules.

Structured revision strategies, practice questions, and mock exams allow students to systematically identify strengths and address weaknesses.

This detailed, personalised approach not only improves academic performance but also fosters motivation and self-confidence, preparing students to excel in their studies and contribute to the intellectual development of others.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Way to Revise Philosophy A Level?

To effectively revise for Philosophy A Level, actively engage with the material by summarising key concepts, creating mind maps, practising exam questions, and reviewing model answers. This method enhances understanding, allowing students to contribute to discussions with greater insight and depth.

Is Philosophy One of the Hardest A-Levels?

The question of whether philosophy is one of the hardest A-Levels often arises due to its abstract nature and analytical demands. Many find it challenging, but diligent study and a service-oriented mindset can lead to a deeper understanding and academic success.

How to Answer a 12 Mark Question in Philosophy A Level?

Answering a 12 mark philosophy question involves presenting a balanced argument, referencing relevant theories and examples, critically evaluating differing viewpoints, and structuring responses clearly. This approach demonstrates understanding and promotes clarity and thoughtful engagement with ethical issues.

How to Study Philosophy at a Level?

Studying philosophy at A-level involves engaging with key topics systematically, practising analytical writing regularly, and mastering specific terminology. Effective students strive to understand diverse perspectives, enabling them to address ethical and metaphysical questions thoughtfully, contributing to the well-being of others.