Higher RMPS

Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies, RMPS is an important academic subject which delivers  a broad range of vital skills which will benefit learners in all subjects and also in the important decisions in daily life into adulthood. 

Learners study a broad variety of interpretations of the human experience, as well as looking at the development of their own character. Learners will tackle important moral, religious and philosophical questions. Learners are equipped with critical thinking skills, constructing arguments, questioning ideas and debating. These are all skills which are essential in learning, life and employment. Employers and colleges/universities appreciate the skills that students gain from engaging with Higher RMPS.

Pupils will study three units:

1. World Religion: Islam

Explore what Muslims believe about God, about human beings, what our purpose is in living. How do Muslims live out their beliefs on a day-to-day basis? What do key festivals symbolise?

2. . Morality & Belief: Justice

The morality unit allows pupils to firstly explore the ways in which people make moral decisions. We will study the causes of crime, the purposes and consequences of punishment, the morality of the death penalty, and related topics.

3. Religious and Philosophical Questions: Existence of God

What evidence is there for the existence of God – what are some of the traditional arguments that have been made? What evidence is there against the existence of God, from, for example, science? It is possible to prove God’s existence, or should we be asking other questions altogether?

Higher RMPS focuses on three main skills:

•Knowledge and Understanding

•Analysis

•Evaluation

These skills are part of a wider skill set addressing:

·       Critical Thinking

·       Self-reflection

·       Discussion

·       Debate

·       Investigation

·       Research

·       Making informed judgements

Highly regarded for further study in the arts and humanities, social studies (including e.g. law), as well as the sciences, these skills are also welcomed by employers seeking creative and critical individuals.

The RMPS exam is worth 73% of the total mark. Pupils will answer questions on all three units (30 marks Islam, 30 marks Justice, 20 marks Existence of God).

In addition, pupils must research a religious, moral or philosophical topic and complete a piece of coursework on this. This assignment essay (30 marks) will be written up in exam conditions in 1 hour 30 minutes and is worth 27% of the total mark.