Middle School Curriculum 2024-2026

Religious Studies

AQA GCSE Religious Studies 8062MA

Why study Religious Studies? Whether you know it or not, everybody believes something. From the most ardent atheist to the most dedicated monk, everyone’s understanding of the world rests on fundamental beliefs. Religious Studies is about asking the ‘big questions’ in life and searching for answers: Do human beings have free will? Has modern science disproved the existence of God? Can war be justified? What is the nature of sex, love and marriage? In exploring different worldviews and the complexities of responses to important ethical issues, pupils investigate questions that move beyond the simple answers of whether something is right or wrong. They are encouraged to develop a sense of self-worth, responsibility and respect for others, whilst developing their powers of enquiry. RS is excellent preparation for careers in law, politics, public policy, social work and many other careers that involve critical evaluation.

What does the course cover? The specification allows focus on the philosophical and ethical approaches of two religious faiths: Christianity and Islam. In the study of beliefs, teachings and practices, topics investigated include the nature of God, the afterlife, the prophets, and pilgrimage and prayer. In the thematic section of the course, the following religious, philosophical and ethical studies themes will be studied from a religious and non-religious perspective: Relationships and families; Religion and life; The existence of God and revelation; Religion, peace and conflict; Religion, crime and punishment; Religion, human rights and social justice. How is the course assessed? The final grade is based on performance in two written examinations: Paper 1: The study of religions: beliefs, teachings and practice 50% of final grade 1 hour 45 minutes Pupils answer two five-part questions of 1, 2, 4, 5 and 12 marks on each religion studied. Paper 2: Thematic studies 50% of final grade 1 hour 45 minutes Pupils answer one five-part question of 1, 2, 4, 5 and 12 marks on each of the themes studied.