Head of Department:  Mr J E Holland

Why study GCSE Religious Studies?

Religion and Philosophy have always been the original subjects which have followed the quest for the meaning of life. Ever since the days of Aristotle and Plato, philosophers and theologians have looked for ideas beyond the ordinary; today’s RS students are no different. The significant breadth of study is unmatched in today’s GCSEs and the aim, by the end of Year 11, is for the student to be able to look at issues, reflect critically and write an opinion. The National Framework for examinations in Religious Studies at GCSE states that students will be able to:

• develop their knowledge, skills and understanding of religion by exploring the significance and impact of beliefs, teachings, sources, practices, ways of life and forms of expressing meaning;

• express their personal responses and informed insights on fundamental questions and issues about identity, belonging, meaning, purpose, truth, values and commitments.

A-Level Physical Education

You will gain a greater understanding of society through the study of its religious heritage.  You will also be more able to relate to people of different faiths and therefore be prepared for working within a global community.  You will have the opportunity to frame questions about life and then find the answers.  As a result, you will develop the ability to think more deeply about issues of life and have some idea where to look for the answers!

Examination Board: AQA Specification B

Religion and Philosophy have always been the original subjects which have followed the quest for the meaning of life. Ever since the days of Aristotle and Plato, philosophers and theologians have looked for ideas beyond the ordinary; today’s RS students are no different. The significant breadth of study is unmatched in today’s GCSEs and the aim, by the end of Year 11, is for the student to be able to look at issues, reflect critically and write an opinion. The National Framework for examinations in Religious Studies at GCSE states that students will be able to:

• develop their knowledge, skills and understanding of religion by exploring the significance and impact of beliefs, teachings, sources, practices, ways of life and forms of expressing meaning;
• express their personal responses and informed insights on fundamental questions and issues about identity, belonging, meaning, purpose, truth, values and commitments.

The course is in two sections:

Religion and Morality

The aim of this unit is to enable candidates to address fundamental questions about the basis for religious beliefs and behaviour and to investigate ways in which religious beliefs and values are relevant to specified moral issues and behaviour. Students will undertake case studies in different religions with an emphasis on Christianity and Islam.

This unit will provide students with the opportunity to:

• develop their knowledge, skills and understanding of religion by exploring the significance and impact of beliefs, teachings, sources, practices, ways of life and forms of expressing meaning;

• express their personal responses and informed insights on fundamental questions and issues about identity, belonging, meaning, purpose, truth, values and commitments.

Within the areas of study outlined in Topics 1 to 6, candidates are expected to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• relevant teachings from both sacred texts and contemporary religious leaders and organisations;

• the work of voluntary groups and organisations (religious and non-religious), where they make a significant contribution;

• the diversity of viewpoints which may exist within religions;

• significant secular responses and the legal position;

• the relationship between religious beliefs and teachings and action in the lives of believers.

Religious Expression in Society

This unit offers an opportunity to study the expressive arts through the medium of religion and spirituality. It also looks at how religious believers express their religion in society today. It is intended to be a generic exploration allowing for investigation through any number of religions. The following areas will be covered:

• What is Spirituality; Religion and Art; Religion and Architecture

• Religion and Media; Religion and Music; Religion and Literature

• Religion in Contemporary Society

Both sections will be examined by a 90 minute paper and there is no coursework.

An ideal RS student would be one who enjoys exploring issues within a relaxed, yet purposeful atmosphere; someone who asks questions; is prepared to question preconceptions and most of all knows that everyone has motivations for doing something and wants to know why!

Examination Board: OCR

What do I need to know, or be able to do, before taking this course?

It is not necessary to have taken RS at GCSE to be able to sit this course successfully. Some background knowledge to any World Religion would be an advantage, but not a requirement.  What is essential is that you are interested in the way that people think and what their motivations are.

What will I learn on this course?

You will gain a greater understanding of society through the study of its religious heritage.  You will also be more able to relate to people of different faiths and therefore be prepared for working within a global community.  You will have the opportunity to frame questions about life and then find the answers.  As a result, you will develop the ability to think more deeply about issues of life and have some idea where to look for the answers!

For what kind of student is this course suitable?

Any student who has an interest in the world and what makes it tick. It is likely you will have a natural aptitude for discussion and debate, although this is not essential.

What could I go on to do at the end of my course?

Religious Studies is possibly the most cross-curricular subject available for study. It can prepare you for any career or degree course. The ethics element of the course is especially suitable for prospective lawyers and doctors; the study of other religious cultures is a perfect background for working in any sector of today’s multi-cultural world. In short, RS can prepare you for a greater understanding of the world irrespective of which career path you follow.

Are you worried about all the big words?

Don’t be – they are all technical terms in the same way that every subject has them and they have to be learned; however, once they are broken down, they are quite straight-forward!