RELIGIOUS STUDIES
“Be the change that you want to see in the world.”
– Mahatma Gandhi
OUR CURRICULUM INTENT
Within Religious Studies at Aylward Academy, we expect our students to experience a knowledge-rich, diverse, and inquiry-focused curriculum. Our curriculum nurtures student curiosity through the use of Big Questions, and is accessible for all students regardless of starting point. We believe that all students are entitled to a curriculum that enhances religious literacy, and also reflects the diversity of their communities.
We aim to prepare our students to be confident, respectful members of society by encouraging them to articulate their opinions using academic language and evidence. The RS curriculum provides unique opportunities to learn differing points of view, and can foster tolerance, empathy and understanding of a students local, national and global community.
THEMES
Beliefs and practices of the 7 main world views (Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism and Atheism)
Exploration of holy texts
Critical analysis of religious and ethical beliefs
Exploration of differing ethical and moral principles
Application of religious beliefs to the world around us
SKILLS
Ability to articulate your thoughts, both verbally and in writing, using academic language and evidence to support your claims.
Ability to criticise beliefs and theories within the academic framework.
Ability to make links between religions and beliefs.
Apply knowledge of religious beliefs to current events.
Approach new challenges with confidence and resilience.
ASSESSMENT
Summative assessment of extended writing pieces
ILT assessments throughout the year
Formative assessment of students' exercise books and weekly exam practice
Continuous one to one verbal feedback in lessons
Peer and self-assessment in lessons
STRETCH & CHALLENGE
Stretch and challenge activities embedded into every lesson
Independent research projects in KS3
Key Stage 3 : Modules Taught
Year 7
Religious worldview - what is the religious makeup of the UK and our local area?
Biblical literacy - decoding the Old Testament
Biblical literacy - decoding the New Testament
Year 8
Judaism - key beliefs and practices
Christianity - what caused divergence within Christianity?
Christianity - key beliefs and practices
Year 9
Islam - key beliefs and practices
Philosophy - how can we argue for the existence of God?
Ethics - how do we respond to ethical dilemmas?
Key Stage 4
At KS4 we follow the EdExcel (Pearson) GCSE Religious Studies specification. This course encourages students to think through some of the most important issues facing us all today, including euthanasia, life after death, the environment, and capital punishment. Students also have the opportunity to learn about Christian and Muslim beliefs and practices. This involves learning about two religions in depth :
Paper 1: Area of Study 1 – Religion and Ethics (Christianity).
50% written exam
This is a written examination lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes. It includes the study of Christian beliefs, Marriage and the Family, Living the Christian Religious Life and Matters of Life and Death.
Paper 2: Area of Study 2 – Religion, Peace and Conflict (Islam).
50% written exam
Students must study Muslim beliefs, Crime and Punishment, Living the Muslim Life and Peace and Conflict.
Examination Boards : KS4 : Religious Studies - Pearson (EdExcel)
EXTRA CURRICULAR & ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES
KS4 Booster Clubs
Visits to places of worships
GCSE Candle Conferences
