Religious Studies Philosophy, Religion and Ethics

EDEXCEL : A LEVEL RELIGIOUS STUDIES INTRODUCTION

This qualification encourages students to develop an appreciation of religious thought and its contribution to individuals, communities and societies. It does this through an enquiring, critical and reflective approach to the study of religion. This involves developing insightful evaluations of ultimate questions about the purposes of human life.

Students compare works of scholars which enables them to reflect on and develop their values, opinions and attitudes in the light of their studies. They will research and present a wide range of well-informed and reasonable arguments which engage profoundly with moral, religious and spiritual issues. The content builds on the understanding developed at GCSE, while also ensuring that students new to the subject are not at a disadvantage.

COURSE CONTENT

There are three Units: Philosophy of Religion –Philosophical issues and questions; the nature and influence of religious experience; problems of evil and suffering; philosophical language; works of scholars; influences of developments in religious belief. Religion and Ethics –Significant concepts in issues or debates in religion and ethics; a study of three ethical theories; application of ethical theories to issues of importance; ethical language; deontology, virtue Ethics and the works of scholars; medical ethics: beginning and end of life issues. Christianity - Beliefs, values and teachings; the bible and Jesus; practices that shape and express religious identity; social and historical developments; works of scholars; religion and society; Primary texts.

ASSESSMENT AT THE END OF YEAR 13

For each Unit there will be a 2-hour exam comprising three sections. Students answer all questions in Section A, Section B and Section C. Section A - Two structured questions. Section B - One two-part essay question on an excerpt, sourced from a published extracts list. Relevant extracts will be printed in the examination paper. Section C - One extended essay question.

LOOKING FURTHER AHEAD

In recent years, up to 100% of the students have gained an A or B grade. One student, who gained full marks for one paper, went onto study Philosophy at King’s College, London. Every year he returns to the School’s Open Morning to persuade others to choose the subject he loves.

If you are interested in the meaning of life and the nature of reality, or the importance for society of religion and making moral decisions, this is the course for you, whether or not you have taken Religious Studies at GCSE. The course is recognised by universities to be one that makes students engage critically with philosophical, ethical and religious issues of contemporary relevance for life in the world today. The skills of thinking logically and having to justify your views are of value throughout life. Some pupils go on to study Philosophy, Theology or Religious Studies at university.

This subject complements the study of a variety of different subjects, including English, Science, Law, Psychology, History, Politics and Medicine.

Recently students attended a debate in London between Professors Richard Dawkins and Richard Swinburne.