S1 - 3 RE
The S1 course begins with basic concepts of Philosophy such as the existence of God before moving on to look at the religion of Islam. All the basics of Islam and its impact on society are discussed. The final topic is a project based on Nicky Cruz who is an American gangster turned preacher.
The S2 course is one based on looking at creation and origins. The first topic is Science where we look at Evolution and then the Big Bang, this is then contrasted with the biblical standpoint. The course moves to look at the teachings of Christianity before finish with a topic on Anti-Semitism and Anne Frank.
The S3 course looks at Morality and Conflict where we discuss ideas around Just War Theory and moves on to look at the religion of Hinduism. The basics of Hindu belief and festivals are discussed. The final topic is to look at minority religions and the impact they have had on individuals associated with them.
The main aims of the course are to enable learners to develop knowledge and understanding of the main beliefs and values of religion, philosophy and moral debates. In doing so students should gain the ability to reflect, investigate, analyse and express their own beliefs and views in a reasonable manner.
Unit 1: Morality and Belief: this unit aims to help students understand moral issues such as capital punishment and through discussion and debate they will be able to form their own religious and non-religious views.
Unit 2: Religious and Philosophical Questions: throughout this unit learners will be trying to comprehend big religious issues such as the existence of God and the nature of God through religious and non-religious views.
Unit 3: World Religion: the last of the three units looks at the major world religions such as Buddhism, the impact they have and why they are so important to so many people.
The course allows candidates to develop an understanding and respect for different beliefs, values and viewpoints, learn how to express their values and beliefs, put their values or beliefs into action in ways which benefit others, and make informed moral decisions
Unit 1: Morality and Belief: through this unit discussion and debate will be used to form students’ views on moral issues such as capital punishment and whether it is still relevant today. Religious and non-religious views on this issue will be analysed to help form opinions.
Unit 2: World Religion: students will be given the opportunity to have an in-depth understanding of Buddhism, and their beliefs and practices. In addition, they will analyse the relationship between different Buddhist beliefs, their relevance and impact, and the purpose of living according to beliefs and practices.
Unit 3: Existence of God: Why do people believe in God? What arguments do religious people use to prove the existence of God? What theories do non-religious people use to challenge the existence of God? These are just some of the questions which are deliberated by students in this unit to help decide if there is conclusive proof about the existence of God.