The course is designed to promote an enquiring, critical and sympathetic approach to the study of the Philosophy of Religion, our responses to moral issues and the fundamental questions of life. It is an enjoyable quest, and is open to everyone regardless of personal religious commitment. Students will learn how religion, philosophy and ethics form the basis of our culture and develop valuable skills that will help them prepare for further study.
There are two components:
Beliefs, teachings and practices of Christianity and Islam
Four Religious, philosophical and ethical studies themes. These are selected from the following options:
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
Two written papers of 1¾ hours each.
Studying two separate but mutually complementary units lets us study Religious Belief and the Philosophy of Religion in the greatest depth and detail possible at GCSE level. It provides a strong foundation for progression to the study of Religious Studies at A level. Although desirable, you do not need RS GCSE to study RS at A level at AHS, however you do need a humanity GCSE.
This course is designed to provide opportunities for students to develop skills in literacy, communication, co‑operation with others, taking responsibility for their own learning and the consolidation of ICT skills. The course has been chosen to promote an ability to analyse religious and moral attitudes to the everyday problems and issues in our society, as well as to the fundamental questions of mankind, and to discuss these in a mature and tolerant manner.
See Mrs Knight (Head of Religious Studies), email her (kknight@ahs.bucks.sch.uk) or contact the RS Subject Ambassadors. Have a look at the AQA website where you will find the specification: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/religious-studies/gcse/religious-studies-a-8062