Religious Studies

Why study Religious Studies?

Religious Studies at GCSE is about asking “Big Questions” and searching for the answers. It helps you to establish your views on important issues and to explore the views of others. If you are interested in other people and are open minded enough to appreciate their views, then this is the course for you. You don’t have to be religious to enjoy Religious Studies.

The aims of the course are to develop your understanding of religious beliefs and practices and to consider religious and other responses to moral and philosophical issues. You will investigate and respond to fundamental questions of life raised by religion and human experience. The course involves the study of Christianity and one other religion, and you will acquire a deeper knowledge and understanding of the beliefs, values and traditions of religions that you have already studied.

How is the course examined?

Examination

Two 1 hour written papers (Beliefs, teachings and practices)

One 2 hour written paper (Religion, philosophy and ethics)

What does the course cover?

Beliefs, teachings and practices of two major world religions: n Nature of God n Core beliefs n Holy books n Beliefs about life after death n Worship and practices

Religion, philosophy and ethics in the modern world, from a religious perspective: n Relationships and families n The existence of God, gods and the ultimate reality n Religion, peace and conflict n Dialogue between religious and non religious beliefs and attitudes