What does my child need to know for Religious Studies?

Course Content 

A student taking the Eduqas GCSE Religious Studies specification Route A would complete three written exams:

Component 1: Religious, Philosophical, and Ethical Studies in the Modern World (2 hours, 50% of qualification)

This compulsory component explores four key themes: Relationships, Life and Death, Good and Evil, and Human Rights. Students will examine how religious, philosophical, and ethical perspectives influence individuals, communities, and societies. They will engage with key sources of wisdom and sacred texts, understanding how interpretations may vary within religious traditions. The study encourages critical thinking and an appreciation of different perspectives, including religious and non-religious worldviews such as humanism and atheism. It also ensures students understand the diversity of religious traditions in Great Britain, where Christianity is the main religion but exists alongside many others.

Component 2: Study of Christianity (1 hour, 25% of qualification)

This compulsory component explores key Christian beliefs, including the nature of God, creation, Jesus Christ, salvation, and the afterlife. Students will also study forms of worship, sacraments, pilgrimage, and religious celebrations, alongside the role of Christianity in Britain, the local community, and the worldwide Church. This study helps students understand how Christian faith and practice shape individual lives and society.

Component 3: Study of a World Faith (1 hour, 25% of qualification)

This component focuses on key beliefs and practices in Islam, exploring concepts such as the nature of Allah, prophethood, angels, and life after death (Akhirah). Students will study the foundations of faith, including the Five Pillars of Sunni Islam and the Ten Obligatory Acts of Shi’a Islam, alongside topics like jihad and religious festivals. The course examines how these beliefs and practices are observed both in Britain and around the world.

So how exactly can I help?

Help your child to get organised and give them a quiet space to work

• Help your child to come up with a revision timetable and plan that is manageable. Remember spaced practice is better than cramming.

• Check that your child is sticking to their revision timetable, or when they are not able to, that they make up the time.

• Watch or read the news with your child to help them stay informed. Students will need to understand key issues such as euthanasia and abortion and be able to explain religious viewpoints on these topics.

• Encourage your child to explain topics to you; teaching others is a powerful way to reinforce learning