A-Level

Religious Studies

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Religious Studies

Entry Criteria

English GCSE

Grade 5

Humanities GCSE

Grade 6

Careers

With the world focusing on multiculturalism and globalisation, professionals who understand religious diversity and ethical frameworks are in high demand. Studying RS provides many transferable skills such as researching, analysis of evidence and data, written and verbal communication and literacy skills as well as highly developed critical thinking skills. It also develops interpersonal skills by gaining a deeper understanding of society and different walks of life. RS complements the study of most subjects, demonstrating to future employers that you have a breadth of skills and attributes. Taken in combination with another Humanities subject, English, French or Economics, RS supports an equally wide range of university courses such as Business, Law, Media, Politics and Philosophy. Some employment options are more directly associated with an RE degree than others, but it would be beneficial for the following: activist, author, charity coordinator, youth worker, police, clergyperson, diplomat, politician, human rights advocate, international aid worker, journalist, lawyer, mediator, teacher, victim’s advocate. 

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Course ID
AQA 7062
Faculty
Humanities
Department
Religious Education
Level
A-Level
Head of Faculty
E. Richman
Head of Department
B. Pasterny
Availability
Currently Studied, Offered Next Academic Year (subject to enrolment numbers)
Religious Studies

Course Overview

The A-Level Religious Studies course presents an exhilarating opportunity for students seeking a challenging and stimulating subject. A-Level Religious Studies invites you to explore some of life’s most profound questions, engaging with a range of contemporary issues from multiple perspectives. You will have the chance to dive deep into debates that spark intellectual curiosity, developing critical skills in interpretation, evaluation, analysis, and self-expression. This subject is not only intellectually challenging but also incredibly enjoyable, particularly for those who thrive in discussions surrounding controversial topics.

The A-Level curriculum is structured into two dynamic components:

Component 1: Philosophy of Religion and Ethics
In this component, students engage with fundamental philosophical and ethical themes that have shaped human thought throughout history. You’ll explore compelling arguments for the existence of God, grapple with the problem of evil and suffering, and examine the nuances of religious experience and language. The course also delves into the nature of miracles, the self, and life after death, alongside a critical analysis of various ethical theories. You will confront vital issues concerning human and animal life and death, investigate meta-ethics, and dissect concepts like free will, conscience, and moral responsibility. This rigorous examination will not only sharpen your analytical skills but will also challenge you to think deeply about your own beliefs and values.

Component 2: Study of Religion and Dialogues
Component 2 provides a rich opportunity for students to conduct an in-depth study of Christianity, encompassing a wide range of themes. You will explore influential religious figures and sacred texts while examining the practices that shape religious identity. This component critically engages with contemporary issues such as gender and sexuality, the relationship between science and religion, secularisation, and religious pluralism. You will analyse how religion interacts with philosophical inquiries and ethical considerations, enriching your understanding of the complexities within religious traditions.

Religious Studies is a thought-provoking subject that emphasises contemporary themes relevant to our diverse and interconnected world. In this course, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of various philosophical and ethical viewpoints, equipping you with the critical and evaluative skills highly sought after by higher education institutions and employers alike.

Course Content

Year 12

Term Unit of Work Assessment
Autumn 1 1. Philosophy of Religion Theme 1 Arguments for existence of God
2. Inductive & Religion and Ethics Theme 1 Ethical thought A-C
3. Islam – Religious Figures and sacred Texts & – A-C
End of unit examination, 1 Hour.
Autumn 2 1. Philosophy of Religion Theme 2: Challenges to religious belief – The problem of Evil and suffering
2. Religion and Ethics Theme 2 Deontological Ethics A-C
3. Islam – Religious Concepts A-C
End of unit examination, 1 Hour.
Spring 1 1. Philosophy of Religion Theme 3 Religious Experience A-C
2. Religion and Ethics Theme 3 Teleological Ethics A-C
3. Islam – Religious Life; A-C
End of Unit examination, 1 hour.
Spring 2 1. Philosophy of Religion Theme 4 Religious Language A-C
2. Religion and Ethics Theme 4 Determinism and Free Will A-C
3. Islam – Religious Practises that shape society
End of Unit examination, 1 hour.
Summer 1 Examination technique; revision and AS examination.  
Summer 2 Recall of Autumn Term and students create their own revision guides for Year 1. Mini assessments.

 

Year 13

Term Unit of Work Assessment
Autumn 1 1. Philosophy of Religion Theme 1: Philosophy of Religion Theme 1 Arguments for existence of God
2. Religious Figures and sacred Texts & – Deductive & Religion and Ethics Theme 1 Ethical thought D-F
3. Islam – Religious figures and sacred texts D-F
End of Unit examination, 1 hour.
Autumn 2 1. Philosophy of Religion Theme 2: Challenges to religious belief – Religious belief as a product of the human mind &
2. Religion and Ethics: Theme 2 Deontological Ethics D-F
3. Islam – Significant social and historical developments in religious thought A-C
End of unit examination, 1 hour.
Spring 1 1. Philosophy of Religion Theme 3 Religious Experience D-F
2. Religion and Ethics Theme 3 Teleological Ethics D – F
3. Islam – Significant social and historical developments in religious thought D-F
End of unit examination, 1 hour.
Spring 2 1. Philosophy of Religion Theme 4 Religious Language
2. Religion and Ethics Theme 4 Determinism and Free will D-F
3. Islam – Religious practices that shape religious identity D-F
End of unit examination, 1 hour.
Summer 1 Examination technique; revision.  
Summer 2 ‘A’ Level Examination. ‘A’ Level Examination.

 

Extended Learning

Year 12

Websites Read Visit or Watch Extra
Eduqas Specification; The Muslim Council of Britain; About Islam. Understanding Islam the first Ten Steps (C.T.R. Hewer); WJEC/Eduqas Religious Studies for A Level, Year 1 – Islam (Richard Gray); An Introduction to Islam 2nd Edition (David Waines). Ted Talk – The Doubt Essential to Faith.  

 

Year 13

Websites Read Visit or Watch Extra
  Muhammad: A Biography of the Prophet (Armstrong, Karen); No God But God: The Origins, Evolution and Future of Islam (Aslan, Reza); Understanding Islam: The First Ten Steps (Hewer, Chris); WJEC/Eduqas RS for Yr1/AS – Islam (Gray, R.); Islam – An Introduction: Teach Yourself (Maqsood, Ruqaiyyah Waris); The Messenger: The Meanings of the Life of Muhammad (Ramadan, Tariq); Islam: A Very Short Introduction (Ruthven, Malise); Islam: Beliefs and Teachings (Sarwar, Ghulam); Islam: The Basics (Turner, Colin); Islam: A Student’s Approach to World Religion (Watton, Victor).