Religious Studies

Had of Social Sciences - Mrs A Rilatt - a.rilatt@beverleyhigh.net

Syllabus – AQA

Link – GCSE Religious Studies

 

GCSE Religious Studies enables students to explore world views, beliefs and practices from both religious and Humanist perspectives, allowing you an insight into the lived experiences of others and an opportunity to consider your own values and personal opinions.

RS will help you to develop key skills in analysis, debating, and forming arguments which will support you in a wide range of subjects and in future careers. A recent Cambridge University study found that studying philosophy (a branch of RS) made students better thinkers, with higher verbal and logical reasoning skills!

Course Content:

Paper 1: The Study of Religions: Beliefs, Teachings and Practices

You will study the beliefs and practices of two religions in detail.

Christianity:

  • The nature of God
  • The problem of evil and suffering
  • Creation stories
  • The afterlife and judgement
  • The life of Jesus
  • Sin and salvation
  • Forms of worship and prayer
  • The meaning of the sacraments
  • The role of the Church in the community

Islam:

  • Differences between Sunni and Shi’a Islam
  • The nature of God
  • Angels and the afterlife
  • Prophethood (Muhammad, Adam, Ibrahim)
  • Holy books (Qur’an, Gospels, Torah)
  • Five Pillars of Sunni Islam
  • Ten Obligatory Acts of Shi’a Islam
  • Jihad
  • Festivals (Id-ul-Fitr, Id-ul-Adha, Ashura)

Paper 2: Thematic Studies

You will study four areas of religious, philosophical and ethical debate, giving you an opportunity to share your own opinions and consider issues surrounding crime, punishment, war, medical ethics, and animal rights.

Theme B: Religion and Life

  • Are humans more important than animals?
  • Should humans be allowed to use animals for their own gain?
  • Should abortion and euthanasia be legalised or criminalised?
  • Do humans have a responsibility to care for the earth and animals?

Theme D: Religion, Peace and Conflict

  • Can war be justified?
  • Why do wars begin?
  • How do various groups respond to war and conflict?
  • Why do some groups have extreme views?
  • Is it ever okay to use nuclear weapons?

Theme E: Religion, Crime and Punishment

  • Why do people commit crime?
  • How do we treat offenders and prevent crime?
  • Is forgiveness possible?
  • Should the death penalty be legalised?

Theme A: Relationships and Families

  • What is the purpose of a family?
  • Why are there gendered roles in a family and how can this be challenged?
  • Why do women face prejudice and discrimination?
  • How do religious believers respond to homosexuality and modern forms of family?

Assessment:

Paper 1:

  • Written examination of 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Worth 50%
  • Multiple choice question, short response, extended response

Paper 2:

  • Written examination of 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Worth 50%
  • Multiple choice question, short response, extended response

 

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