Religious Studies

RS v2.mp4

Why choose this subject?

Studying Religious Studies gives you the chance to explore some of life’s biggest questions — about belief, meaning, morality, and the human experience. You’ll learn how different religions and philosophies shape the way people think and act, and how these ideas influence cultures and societies around the world.

Religious Studies helps you develop key skills such as reasoning, critical thinking, and clear communication. It also improves your ability to understand different perspectives, making it a valuable subject for anyone interested in people, ethics, or global issues.

What does a typical lesson look like?

Lessons are interactive and discussion-based. You’ll explore religious teachings, ethical issues, and philosophical questions through reading, debate, and analysis. You might interpret religious texts, use case studies, and explore how different beliefs apply to modern issues such as equality, peace, and human rights. Visual and audio resources help bring religious ideas and cultural perspectives to life.

What sort of learner does well in this subject?

Religious Studies suits students who enjoy discussion, debate, and exploring big ideas. You’ll do well if you:
• Are curious about people, beliefs, and cultures
• Enjoy forming and expressing your own opinions
• Can listen to and respect different viewpoints
• Have strong reading and writing skills
• Like to think deeply about moral and philosophical questions

Being open-minded, reflective, and confident in expressing your ideas will help you thrive in this subject.

How is this course assessed?

GCSE Religious Studies is assessed through two written examinations, both taken at the end of Year 11.

• Paper 1: The Study of Religions – Beliefs, Teachings and Practices (50%)
You will study two religions in depth: Buddhism and Christianity, exploring their key beliefs, teachings, and forms of worship.

• Paper 2: Thematic Studies (50%)
You’ll explore a range of philosophical, ethical, and social themes, such as:
- 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

Each paper lasts 1 hour 45 minutes and contributes 50% of your total grade.

What could this course lead on to?

A GCSE in Religious Studies provides an excellent foundation for A Levels in Religious Studies, Philosophy, Ethics, or Classical Civilisation. It also supports courses in History, Politics, and Sociology. Employers and universities value the ability to think critically, analyse arguments, and understand cultural and ethical perspectives — skills you’ll develop throughout this course.

Possible future pathways include careers in law, education, journalism, politics, social work, counselling, and public service.

Who can tell me more about this subject?

Mrs Thompson-Bowen, Subject Leader of RS

Miss Bruce , Faculty Leader of Humanities

https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/religious-studies/gcse/religious-studies-8062/specification/specification-at-a-glance

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