Subject Choices for GCSE CO R E S U B J E C T S
O P T I O N S / T WO
Religious Studies Knowledge of the beliefs, values and traditions of those in your community is key to building a society where everyone is understood and respected. RELIGIOUS STUDIES
WHO TAKES RELIGIOUS STUDIES GCSE?
‘GCSE Religious Studies was the course I most enjoyed
Anyone who has some curiosity about, interest in and
in Year 10 & Year 11.’
sensitivity to philosophy, religious ideas and ethical
‘The course was fun, relevant and always interesting.’
issues will enjoy the course. You may be uncertain
‘Religious Studies introduced me to many issues and
about what you believe and be open to new insights;
topics that I had never studied before and prepared me
you may have strong traditions in your family and
for my degree in Medicine.’
firm convictions of your own and wish to study
(Quotes from former students)
them in depth; perhaps you would rather develop an understanding of unfamiliar beliefs and cultures in order
WHAT IS THE COURSE ABOUT?
to enhance your career prospects, become a better
Knowledge of the beliefs, values and traditions of
citizen or travel the world with greater enjoyment.
those in your community is key to building a society where everyone is understood and respected. With
WHAT WILL I GAIN FROM TAKING THE COURSE?
this in mind, the Religious Studies department offers
Religious Studies will help you develop marketable
an exciting course that covers the main issues of
skills and aptitudes including:
Philosophy and Religion as well as Religion and Ethics.
•
analytical and strategic thinking;
The two units you will study cover the following
•
research skills;
fascinating topics and consider religious teachings,
•
critical judgement;
beliefs and attitudes about:
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the ability to work with abstract, conceptual ideas;
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Sex, marriage and divorce
•
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Families and gender equality
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an ability to ‘understand both sides’ and negotiate and resolve conflict;
Philosophical arguments for and against the
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problem-solving skills;
existence of God
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leadership skills;
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Religion, violence, terrorism and war
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Religion and belief in 21st century conflict
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Religion, crime and the causes of crime
•
Religion and punishment
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Human rights
understanding of the impact of conflicting ideologies;
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an appreciation of human diversity, belief systems, cultural and spiritual experiences.
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