Religious studies
Exam board: Eduqas
Qualification type: GCSE
Course code: C120QS
Contact: Mr James – mjames@retfordoaks-ac.org.uk
Religious studies encourages students to reflect on current ethical issues and philosophical questions such as:
• What happens when we die?
• Why are we here?
• Are miracles real?
What will be studied?
Component 1: religion, philosophy and ethical studies in the modern world (50%)
Theme 1: issues of relationships – family relationships, sexual relationships, marriage, changes in relationships, and issues of equality.
Theme 2: issues of life and death – the world (including religious and scientific beliefs), the value of life (humans/animals), beliefs about death and the afterlife, issues of sanctity and quality of life, medical ethics (abortion/euthanasia).
Theme 3: issues of good and evil – good (morality, conscience), evil (natural, moral evil), suffering (causes and type of suffering, work of a charity to alleviate suffering), crime and punishment (aims of punishment, death penalty, work of prison chaplains), forgiveness.
Theme 4: issues of human rights – human rights, racial prejudice and discrimination, issues of wealth and poverty, issues of social justice (issues about freedom of beliefs, censorship, extremism, freedom of speech), religion in 21st century Britain (role of Christianity, diversity of beliefs in the UK, inter-faith dialogue).
Component 2: study of Christianity (25%)
Beliefs and teachings – nature of God, creation, Jesus Christ, salvation, the afterlife. Practices – forms of worship, sacraments, pilgrimage, the church in the local community, the worldwide church.
Component 3: study of a world faith – Judaism (25%)
Beliefs and teachings – the nature of God, Messiah, Covenant, Life on Earth and the afterlife. Practices – worship practices in Britain, the Synagogue, rituals, daily life and festivals in Britain.
Course benefits
Religious studies gives you a greater understanding of other perceptions of life. It focuses on current key issues in the world and gives you an opportunity to be reflective about the choices you make in your life and those of others. The exam technique develops analytical skills,
which will help in many other GCSE subjects.
Career opportunities
Religious education provides a platform and skills base for a number of career pathways. The key components of discussions and development of reasoning are valued by many careers including:
• Teaching
• Social work
• Law
• Journalism
• Psychotherapy and counselling
* Parents and carers have the right to request their child is withdrawn from all or parts of religious studies. Requests can be made by contacting the academy at office@retfordoaks-ac.org.uk
