Religious Studies GCSE

(Religion and Philosophical and Ethical Themes)

Exam Board: AQA

The GCSE in Religious Studies provides the opportunity for all students to learn about the beliefs, teachings and practices of two of the world’s major religions. Also students study different religious, philosophical and ethical themes, which allows them to consider and express their own viewpoints on a range of issues regarding life and society.

Students have been very successful in Religious Studies at GCSE level in recent years.

There are TWO parts of the course:

• Component 1 is the study of the beliefs, teachings and practices of two religions. For example, beliefs about life after death, morality and identity, teachings about the nature of God and existence; as well as the origins and historical background of major religions; and different forms of worship and festivals such as Christmas and Parinirvana Day. The two religions studied will be Christianity and Buddhism. • Component 2 is the study of religious, philosophical and ethical themes in which students consider various arguments and their impact and influence in the modern world. The thematic studies will include Peace and Conflict; Crime and Punishment; Human

Rights; Social Justice and the Value of Life, which includes animal rights, environment, abortion and euthanasia.

Religious Studies is valuable for you to develop skills in discussion, debating and understanding opinions and ideas. You will learn the importance of respecting and understanding others’ ideas, cultures and traditions as well expressing those of your own effectively.

How the course is assessed

Two exams of 1 hour 45 minutes at the end of the course (50% each)

Suitable Candidates

Suitable for students interested in current affairs, exploring other cultures as well as those who wish to think deeply about life and existence, be critical and analytical and to discuss/formulate arguments.

*If there is a high enough uptake with students of a high calibre, it may be possible to additionally offer the AS Level Philosophy and Ethics course.

Post 16 Progression Routes

AS and A2 level Religious Studies. Also useful for AS/A2 courses in Philosophy, Critical Studies, Anthropology and Politics.

Student Comments

“I really enjoy learning about current issues and having debates about them. You learn about other peoples’ opinions and you gain wider understanding of society”

“It educates people to be open minded”

“We are able to express our opinions and beliefs in small groups or as a class and be respected”