Aims

• To develop analytical and critical thinking skills and a reflective approach to the study of religion.

• To explore religions, beliefs, reflect on fundamental questions, engage with them intellectually and respond personally.

• To gain an appreciation of how religion, philosophy and ethics form the basis of our culture. 

• To reflect on and develop your own values, opinions and attitudes towards religious issues in the light of your own learning.

• To be challenged with questions about belief, values, meaning, purpose and truth.

Course Content

Students will study:

Component 1: The Study of Religions: beliefs, teachings and practices.

• Belief and teachings (Christianity and Buddhism)

• Practices (Christianity and Buddhism)

Component 2: Thematic Studies

• Relationships and families

• Religion and life

• Religion, crime and punishment

• Religion, peace and conflict

Assessment Structure

Each component will be assessed by two 1 hour 45 minute written exam paper. These papers have equal weighting. There is no coursework.

You need to

• Have an open mind to a wide range of differing points of view.

• Be concerned about the problems of our world, ranging from the rights and wrongs of abortion to religion and belief as a cause of war and violence in the contemporary world.

• Respect the beliefs of others, although you may not have a religious faith yourself.

• Be able to express yourself clearly, listen to other people’s points of view, weigh up the arguments and make a balanced evaluation and develop good essay writing skills.

• Enjoy asking questions and searching for possible answers.

For further information, see Miss Griffiths (Lead Teacher of Religious Studies)