Religious Studies, Philosophy & Ethics

Specification

Entry Requirements

Grade 6 or better in GCSE English or a Humanities subject.

Course Content

The course is wide ranging and interesting looking at some of the deepest questions to ever face humanity - What is the truth? Does God exist? Do we know the meaning and purpose of existence? How do we know the right thing to do?

Should we allow Euthanasia, Abortion, Capital Punishment and Animal Experimentation? Are there two sides to the story? Furthermore, the course explores the implications of Artificial Intelligence in Ethics – taking you into cutting edge territory.

In terms of techniques and skills the two main Assessment Objectives are Knowledge (AO1) and Analysis/Evaluation (AO2). More weight is given to evaluation as it is a higher level skill. In the second paper Christianity is analysed and any pupil with a strong background/knowledge in Christianity would have an advantage although the course is designed for all to do well.

Paper 1: Philosophy of Religion and Ethics

Paper 2: Christianity & Dialogues with Philosophy

Assessment

By written examination, there are various medium

length to long essays over the two papers and this

makes the course particularly suitable to those who

enjoy extended writing.

Progression Routes

Philosophy itself offers a path towards university or other forms of higher education. Students interested in philosophical issues could pursue a career in Business, Journalism, Politics, Law or any of the branches of Social Care or Human Resources as well as Teaching, Environmentalism, Communications and Advertising.

The course develops a number of skills that are transferable and useful in a variety of careers. Analysis of evidence, evaluation and essay writing skills will develop. Any future which requires you to question and consider options will welcome you after this course.