Religious Studies

Why Choose this course?

An A Level in Religious Studies will encourage learners to:

develop their interest in a rigorous study of religion and belief and relate it to the wider world

develop knowledge and understanding appropriate to a specialist study of religion

develop an understanding and appreciation of religious thought and its contribution to individuals, communities and societies

adopt an enquiring, critical and reflective approach to the study of religion

reflect on and develop their own values, opinions and attitudes in the light of their study

have the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to contemporary issues, giving a greater understanding of the world around them

feel inspired and motivated, while challenging and developing their perceptions of different world religions

respond critically and engage with a wealth of philosophical, ethical and religious concepts, equipping them with analytical skills readily transferable to other subjects.

Prospects

It is an A level that opens up many opportunities for a wide range of careers. You may wish to go into a career in law, medicine, or politics for example.

Course Content

Learners must study all three components.

Component 1: A Study of Judaism (option C)

Written examination: 2 hours 33% of qualification

Learners will be expected to answer one question from Section A out of a choice of two and one question from Section B out of a choice of three in this component. Questions can be taken from any area of the specification.

Component 2: Philosophy of Religion.

Written examination: 2 hours 33% of qualification.

There will be four themes within this component: arguments for the existence of God; challenges to religious belief; religious experience; religious language. Learners will be expected to answer one question from Section A out of a choice of two and one question from Section B out of a choice of three in this component. Questions can be taken from any area of the specification.

Component 3: Religion and Ethics.

Written examination: 2 hours 33% of qualification

There will be four themes within this component: ethical thought; deontological ethics; teleological ethics; determinism and free will. Learners will be expected to answer one question from Section A out of a choice of two and one question from Section B out of a choice of three in this component. Questions can be taken from any area of the specification.

Course Opportunities/ Activities

Opportunity to visit Rome and Pompeii at end of year 12/13 (after examinations).

Support and Challenge

The RE department support students by giving each student at the beginning of the year a folder, exercise book as well as a copy of the course outline and marking scheme. All lesson PowerPoints and additional reading are sent via Teams each half term. Students are available to contact Mrs Spike via Teams for additional support. Revision materials including course booklets are given to all students. Students are given differentiated presentation tasks to challenge them as well as extensive academic reading material.

Student Comment

I chose philosophy because I loved RE gcse, the step between GCSE and A level is that now it is a lot more realistic and interesting

I chose to study Religious Studies because it's a subject that is really enjoyable and makes you eager to learn more. Religious Studies makes you question everything and makes you want to know more.