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What does Paper 1 Section A ask?
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All Flashcards in Topic 11.4
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11.4.111 cards
What does Paper 1 Section A ask?
Use an unseen stimulus (text or image) + your own knowledge to explore a philosophical issue about being human [25].
The four-step Section A method?
Read the stimulus → name a philosophical issue → argue and evaluate 2–3 views → reach a reasoned conclusion.
AO2 vs AO3 in Section A?
AO2 = explain a view clearly; AO3 = argue, evaluate and conclude. AO3 lifts you into the top band.
How do you find a philosophical issue in a stimulus?
Find the hidden claim or tension — the thing the stimulus quietly assumes that you can question.
The six 'Being human' issues to reach for?
Identity, the self and the other, consciousness, personhood, human nature, freedom.
How do you read an image stimulus?
Describe it → ask what it symbolises → find the tension → name the issue.
The recommended essay structure?
Intro (name issue + link stimulus) → 2–3 views each argued and objected to → reasoned conclusion.
Is there a 'correct' issue to choose?
No. Any well-argued issue that fits the stimulus can score full marks — the choice is yours.
A common Section A mistake?
Retelling the stimulus, or describing views without arguing and evaluating them.
What must you keep doing after the intro?
Keep linking your argument explicitly back to the stimulus.
Rough Section A timing?
About 5 min to plan, 35 min to write, 5 min to check.
Topic 11.4 study notes
Full notes & explanations for Analysing the unseen stimulus (Paper 1 §A technique)
Philosophy exam skills
Paper structures, command terms & tips
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