Religious Studies Short Course GCSE
What is the main aim of the course?
Our aim is for students to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills to engage in discussion about life, ethics and spirituality in a modern pluralistic society. Students will be able to hold well-informed, far-reaching discussions in the classroom on key beliefs in Christianity and Islam, as well as respectful conversations with anyone they encounter outside of school. They will approach different ethical positions with an open mind, empathising with different perspectives and displaying the flexibility to reason from various viewpoints, and the analytical and evaluative skills to produce compelling and convincing arguments.
What will you learn?
In Section A, the religions paper, students will deepen their knowledge of Islam and Christianity; consider similarities and differences between their beliefs and teachings; and understand the impact they have on the lives of Muslims and Christians today. Common and divergent views in the way beliefs and teachings are understood and expressed within Christianity and Islam are included throughout.
In section B, the philosophy paper, students will study religious and non-religious philosophical and ethical ideas related to issues around sex, relationships, families and gender in theme A; violence, terrorism, war and pacifism in theme B; and their impact and influence on the modern world.
Section A
The study of religions: beliefs and teachings (50%)
Christianity
Islam
Section B
Thematic studies: religious, philosophical and ethical studies (50%)
Theme A - Relationships and families
Theme B - Religion, peace and conflict
How is the course assessed?
The Religious Studies Short Course is assessed through one written examination at the end of Year 11, covering the two sections outlined above. This is worth 100% of the final grade. There is no coursework.
How does this course connect to the world of work and allow students to reach ambitious destinations?
The ability to understand and explore different worldviews is incredibly important in today’s society, both culturally and economically, as we continue to operate on an increasingly globalised scale. Academically, it is a strong base for discussion, debate and analytical subjects such as Philosophy, Law, Politics and, of course, Theology.
Who do you need to contact if you have any further questions about this course?
Nicky Bureau, Director of Personal Development, nbureau@srwa.co.uk
