Students are introduced to philosophy and become acquainted with the three most influential ancient Greek philosophers: Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. Students research the main contributions of each and explain why their contributions are still considered important. Finally, students select a quotation from one of the philosophers and respond to it.
Students are introduced to the idea that many modern beliefs about using reason and logic come from ancient Greek philosophers. They view an image of Raphael’s painting The School of Athens, consider the questions “Have you ever heard of philosophy?” and “What do you think of when you think about that word?”, and contribute to a word cloud by entering words or short phrases describing what philosophy is about. Students then respond in a shared table to the prompt “Why do you think philosophy is important?” and are reassured that they will learn what philosophy means in this experience.
Teacher MovesReview the lesson objectives and discuss students’ word cloud ideas, using their responses (such as thinking, truth, and ideas) to surface initial understandings of philosophy. If students show limited comprehension, read dictionary definitions of philosophy aloud and briefly discuss them before moving on.
Students examine an image of The Death of Socrates and read Greek Philosophers to learn the basics of what philosophy is and how the ancient Greeks viewed it. They then answer two multiple-choice questions about what philosophy studies and why many philosophical questions do not have exact answers.
Teacher MovesUse student responses to identify understandings and misconceptions, and to guide follow-up discussion.
Students view an image labeled “Plato’s Cave” and read short texts introducing Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle as especially influential Greek philosophers. They read about each philosopher using the linked resources (Socrates, Philosopher of the Week: Plato, and Aristotle) and complete a graphic organizer by noting two or more major points about each thinker. After a brief explanation of how these philosophers influenced later civilizations, students read additional short web pages on Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle and revise or expand their notes in the organizer. Drawing on their research, students then choose one philosopher and post to a class wall stating which philosopher they selected and explaining why he is considered important today, using evidence from the readings.
Teacher MovesEncourage interested students to extend their learning with the article Thinkers and the video Plato’s Best (and Worst) Ideas from the Student Pack. After students post to the wall, highlight interesting or exemplary responses and ensure that all three philosophers are represented in the class discussion.
Students view an image of a statue of Aristotle and read a list of famous quotations attributed to Socrates or Plato and to Aristotle, along with a brief note explaining that many sayings of Socrates come through Plato’s writings. They choose one quotation, explain in a wall post what they think it means, and describe how people might use that idea today. Students then review classmates’ posts and respond to at least two with a question or a positive comment.
Teacher MovesUse students’ posts and replies as springboards for whole-class discussion about the meanings and modern relevance of the philosophers’ ideas.
Students complete the exit quiz by answering all the questions.
Teacher MovesFacilitate the assessment and use student data to evaluate understanding, address misconceptions, and identify areas for growth.
©2026 Exploros. All rights reserved.