RELIGIOUS STUDIES

Specification: AQA Religious Studies A

• •  The study of religions: beliefs, teaching and practices

  •  Thematic studies on religious, philosophical and ethical themes

Introduction

To ensure a diverse choice of intriguing subjects to explore, the new RS GCSE syllabus will cover beliefs, teachings and practice of two religions and four religious, philosophical, and ethical study themes. Boys will be challenged with questions about belief, values, meaning, purpose and truth enabling them to develop their own attitudes towards religious issues. They will also gain an appreciation of how religion, philosophy and ethics form the basis of society and culture. They will develop analytical and critical thinking skills, the ability to work with abstract ideas, leadership and research skills. All these skills will help prepare them for further study and how to become good, respectable and productive global citizens. 

The new syllabus will comprise two components.  

Component 1: 

The study of religions: beliefs, teaching and practices. 

Boys must study these beliefs, teaching and practices through the following two religions: 

• • Islam

  • Christianity

 (50% of GCSE. 1hr 45mins written examination)

Component 2: 

Thematic studies: Boys must study four religious, philosophical and ethical themes through the following: 

Theme A: Relationships and families

Theme D: Religion, peace and conflict

Theme E: Religion, crime and punishment 

Theme: F: Religion, human rights and social justice 

(50% of GCSE; 1hr 45mins written examination)

Advantages of the course

This is an excellent preparation for ‘A’ Level Social Sciences (law, sociology, psychology, etc) as well as ‘A’ Level Religious Studies, History, English etc.  In addition, many jobs appreciate the skills GCSE Religious Studies gives you, for example: medicine, the police, the armed forces, a caring profession, and any job where you have to be able to understand the fundamental nature and value of humanity.