Philosophy Class!
Apply for a truly unique opportunity in Johnston Middle School’s Philosophy class! As this is one of the few (actually to
my knowledge the only) Philosophy class for middle school in the nation, it is exciting that our students are providing an
example and defining middle school Philosophy education.
In the class students will contend with the Seven Great Questions that have shaped our world throughout history from the
Pre-Socratics to Plato to Descartes to Hegel to the present day on topics such as morals, political justice, economic justice,
human nature, science, aesthetics, etc. In the frequent class discussions students will formulate and defend their own ideas
by considering opposing views, and become critical thinkers who question and who supply well thought-out reasons to
support a view.
The class promotes ethical awareness, critical thinking skills, civil discourse, civic engagement, an
appreciation for diverse points of view, and ability to make better reasoned judgments in their lives and for the larger
society in which we live.
As part of the Philosophy class students will consider, discuss, and inquire into important and often controversial “cases,”
scenarios over ethical issues that are supplied by the National High School Ethics Bowl. By nature the cases are
controversial, such as but not limited to, China’s one child policy, genetically modification, compensation for student
athletes, executive salaries for non-profit CEOs, legalization of marijuana, abortion, gender rights, treatment of endangered
species, government collection of private information, physician-assisted suicide, conscientious objection, etc. The cases
require the student to consider views of which they may not agree and do so in a civil manner. By considering opposing
views, students become critical thinkers who question what we ought to do and who supply well thought-out reasons to
support a view.
To insure that each student in the Philosophy class has frequent access to the teacher and has time to voice their views with
other members of the group, the class size will be limited.
Students accepted into this class will be self-motivated to learn
and discuss the topics, good listeners, and considerate of views other than their own.
To apply, turn in to Mr. Barber the attached completed “Application and Approval for Admittance to Philosophy Class.” A
copy of the student’s latest report card will also be helpful. Generally speaking, successful applicants will not have
consistently low grades in any class and will not have more than one “P” (poor) or “U” (unsatisfactory) in conduct. Upon
review of the application potential candidates for the Philosophy class will be notified of an interview time with the
Philosophy teacher, Mr. Barber. Class members will be selected from the interviewees and notified whether or not they
are accepted into the class. Applicants who show traits such as open-mindedness, good listening skills, critical thinking,
self-motivation to learn, asking insightful questions, reflective, and can contribute positively to the group will make the best
candidates for the Philosophy class. If you are interested in applying for the class please fill out, sign, and have your
parent or legal guardian sign the attached “Application and Approval for Admittance to the Philosophy Class.” I look
forward to seeing you in the Philosophy class next year!
Deric Barber
World Cultures, Ethics Bowl,
and Philosophy Teacher
Application and Approval for Admittance to the Philosophy Class
Student name: ________________________________________
Current Grade: 6th
7th
8th
Student’s House:
J M S G
Parent or guardian’s name ___________________________________________
Parent or guardian’s email:___________________________________________
Parent or guardian’s phone number ____________________________________
Approval Statement for Admittance to the Philosophy Class
I have read and understand the attached document titled “Philosophy Class!” I understand that acceptance to the
Philosophy class is limited, and this application does not mean acceptance into the Philosophy class.
I understand that in
the Philosophy class the student will be expected to listen to and consider ideas and views that are controversial and may
conflict with my own.
I understand that as with any class homework and assignments must be completed on time. I
understand that if accepted to the Philosophy class, in order to remain in the class the student will be responsible to display
appropriate, polite, civil conduct, which includes maintaining a positive attitude towards the other students, the teacher, and
the material covered in the class as well as respect and consideration for others with views different from my own.
_____________________________
_____________________________
Student’s printed first and last name
Parent or guardian’s printed
first and last name
_____________________________
_____________________________
Student’s signature
Parent or guardian’s signature