Religious Studies

RELIGIOUS STUDIES – PHILOSOPHY AND ETHICS   AQA   8062

Why study Religious Studies – Philosophy and Ethics?

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.

How is the course organised?

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

How is it assessed?

Two written papers of 1¾ hours each.

What are the special features of the course?

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.

Other information

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.

How can I find out more?

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