Humanities – Theology & Philosophy Examination Board GCSE Type Specification No.
AQA GCSE RS Specification A (8062A)
What is Theology and Philosophy GCSE?
The course is a continuation and development of the units which have been introduced in Year 9. We will consider issues in the Philosophy of Religion and Ethics. Theology and Philosophy at GCSE combines the critical analysis of ideas and arguments with the very real intellectual and personal challenges encountered by those who face complex ethical dilemmas.
What skills are involved/developed through the course?
The course develops a range of skills including the facility to analyse, critique and formulate arguments; the capacity to empathise with others in difficult ethical situations; and the ability to understand different points of view before reaching a balanced conclusion. Pupils will also find their skills of interpretation enhanced.
GCSE Specification
Year 10 Unit/Topic
Assess ment
Component1: Worldview Analysis 1 hr 45 min (Beliefs, teachings and practices) written Topics covered: Buddhism: Buddhist beliefs about existence and the problem of suffering. Buddhist practices. Buddhist Ethics Christianity: The extent to which theism is coherent. The nature of salvation Arguments for life after death Reconciliation, persecution and poverty
examinati on at the end of Year 11
Year 11 Unit/Topic Component 2: Philosophy Religion and Ethics. Topics covered:
Assess ment
of 1 hr 45
Religion, Social Justice and Human Rights: Issues of inequality and discrimination Religion and Life: Religion, Science and Medical Ethics The Existence of God and Revelation: Arguments for and against God and analysis of the concept of revelation Religion, Peace and Conflict: The influence of beliefs on violence, terrorism and war Religion, Crime and Punishment: Causes, punishments and the place of forgiveness
min written examina tion at the end of Year 11
Nature and timings of assessment
Both written examinations will take place at the end of the course in Year 11. There is no coursework.
What sort of pupil does it suit and what will they get out of the course?
The course will suit a pupil who enjoys reflecting on and discussing questions of ultimate significance. There is a focus on the development of arguments and the critical evaluation of different points of view. Pupils will also need to be interested in a range of contemporary debates. The extent to which a pupil has enjoyed engaging with the topics considered in the Year 9 course is a good indicator of their suitability for the GCSE.
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