GCSE Religious Studies

Description

The GCSE will assess students on their knowledge of two major world religions (Christianity and Islam) and six philosophical and ethical themes:

• Theme A: Relationships and families.
• Theme B: Religion and life.
• Theme C The Existence of God and Revelation
• Theme D: Religion, peace and conflict.
• Theme E: Religion, crime and punishment
• Theme F: Religion, human rights and social justice

Students will be challenged with questions about belief, values, meaning, purpose and truth, enabling them to develop their own attitudes towards religious issues. Students will also gain an appreciation of how religion, philosophy and ethics form the basis of our culture. They will develop analytical and critical thinking skills, the ability to work with abstract ideas, leadership and research skills. All these skills will help prepare them for further study.

How will I be assessed?

Students will sit two written exam papers:

• Paper 1 will assess the study of religions:  beliefs, teachings and practices of Christianity and Islam
• Paper 2 will assess knowledge and understanding of the religious, philosophical and ethical studies themes listed above

Each paper will last 1 hour 45 minutes and will be worth 96 marks (plus 5 marks for spelling, punctuation and grammar (SPaG))

What are the entry requirements?

All students will study GCSE Religious Studies.

Is there anything else I need to know?

In a complex and diverse society and world it is important that we understand the beliefs and motivations of others if we are to avoid conflict.  The study of the moral and ethical issues also prepares us for the moral decisions that we may need to make in the future.

Course contact: paul.forster@biddenham.beds.sch.uk

Exam board information: AQA