Religious Education (GCSE)

Exam Board:  AQA (A Specification)

Course Overview:

Religious Studies will not only help students understand theological concepts and religious doctrines but it will also promote and equip students with valuable skills for their future development, such as analytical and critical thinking, the ability to work with abstract ideas, leadership and research skills.

The course comprises two key components:

• Component 1: Study of Religious Beliefs, Teachings and Practices (Christianity and Islam)

• Component 2: Thematic Studies

Course Content:

Component 1: The study of religions

Christianity

• Key beliefs

• Jesus and salvation

• Worship and festivals

• Role of the church

Islam

• Key beliefs

• Authority

• Worship

• Duties and festivals

Component 2: Thematic studies

Theme A: Relationships and families

• Sex, marriage and divorce

• Families and gender equality

Theme B: Religion and life

• Value of the universe

• Value of human life

Theme D: Peace and conflict

• Violence, terrorism and wars

• 21st century conflict

Theme E: Crime and punishment

• Crime and the causes of crime

• Punishment and death penalty 

Assessment Structure:

Two end of course examinations (one on each component) Each examination is worth 50% of the overall GCSE

Contains 96 marks (plus 5 spelling, punctuation and grammar) Duration of 1hr 45.

Career Prospects and Transferable Skills:

Skills developed transcend all career paths: Independent and critical thinking, evaluation of diverse viewpoints, application of information to a variety of issues, debating and discussion, analysis of key contemporary issues and their impact upon society. Religious studies is identified by top universities as being a valuable qualification.

Further Information:  Naima Khanom (Head of Religious Studies/LIFE Skills) - email: naima.khanom@scwa.org.uk