Religious Studies A Level

Religious Studies is devoted to understanding the beliefs and practices of the world religions. This subject gives students the opportunity to understand a diverse range of philosophical thoughts and ethical dilemmas at a deeply thought-provoking level as well as applying world religions to these ideas. Religion is a crucial aspect of human existence. It can be seen throughout the world and religious practices are so often the foundation on which societies are built. Studying this phenomenon can offer clarity and the chance for debate on modern day dilemmas. We ask questions on subjects such as the nature of our conscience, the problems of evil and suffering, life after death, the existence of God. Through logical analysis and critical thinking, we will attempt to answer these questions.

Religious Studies offers an academic approach to the study of religion by developing understanding and building on evaluative skills of the world faiths. This is an essay-based subjects where students have the opportunity to answer deep and profound questions about a wide range of philosophical and ethical based questions. Students can expect to have meaningful discussion and debate and will be expected to participate to present their own ideas and listening to others points of views.

Component 1: Philosophy of Religion and Ethics

Section A:

This section focuses on philosophy of religion by developing an understanding of the influence of religious and non-religious beliefs and teachings on individuals, communities and societies, the cause and significance of similarities and differences in beliefs and teachings, and the approach of philosophy to the study of religion and belief. Questions may be asked about arguments for the existence of God, evil and suffering and religious experience.

Section B:

This section surrounds the study of ethics and religion by looking at ethical theories. For example, natural moral law, situation ethics and virtue ethics. In the section we will also discuss issues of human life (e.g. capital punishment) and death and issues of animal life and death (e.g. use of animals in scientific procedures; cloning).

Component 2: Study of Religion

Section A:

Students are required to study aspects of the religious beliefs, teachings, values, and practices within Christianity. In addition, students will evaluate the different ways in which these are expressed in the lives of individuals, communities, and societies. This will involve studying sources of wisdom and authority, God/gods/ultimate reality, life after death, key moral principles, and religious identity.

Section B:

The dialogue between philosophy of religion and Christianity.

This section of the course explores how religion is influenced by and has an influence on philosophy of religion in relation to the issues studied. Such as God, the afterlife, and key moral principles.

Section C:

The dialogue between ethical studies and religion.

In this final section students will be looking at Christianity as an influence on ethical ideas and how Christianity is influenced by ethical theories. For example, deontology and teleology.

Two external exams at the end of Year 13, each of 2 hours and each representing 50% of the course

Grade 6 in either English language or English literature and if you have taken it, level 6 in RS.

Successful completion of this A level will give access to a range of possible career and educational opportunities, for example careers in law, education, politics, social work, medicine, administration, and the media. Employers and universities value the range of transferable skills accumulated by the students throughout their A level which include critical thinking and evaluating a variety of scholarly sources and the need for the research to be effectively communicated.