Why should I study this subject?
To understand people’s beliefs and values is to really know what makes them tick.
GCSE Religious Studies helps you explore the beliefs, values, and traditions that shape people’s lives around the world. With most of the global population following some form of religion, this subject gives you a deeper understanding of people, cultures, and societies.
You will study a range of religious beliefs, including Christianity, Islam, and other major world religions, as well as non-religious perspectives. The course also examines some of the most important and controversial issues facing society today, such as relationships, equality, medical ethics, and the environment.
Through evaluating evidence, exploring different viewpoints, and engaging in thoughtful discussions, you will develop critical thinking, empathy, and the ability to form your own informed opinions – skills that are valuable both inside and outside the classroom.
What will I study?
You will learn about the beliefs, teachings and practices of two world religions and you will also study four of the following religious, philosophical and ethical themes:
- Relationships and families
- Religion and life
- The existence of God and revelation
- Religion, peace and conflict
- Religion, crime and punishment
- Religion, human rights and social justice
- St Mark's Gospel – the life of Jesus
- St Mark's Gospel as a source of religious, moral and spiritual truths
How will I be assessed?
The exam board for Religious Studies is AQA and assessment is 100% by examination at the end of the two-year course. This is broken down into two papers, as detailed below.
Paper 1: Religious Beliefs, Teachings and Practices
- Topics covered: The beliefs, teachings and practices of two world religions
- Exam duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Worth 50% of final mark
Paper 2: Thematic Studies
- Topics covered: • Religious, philosophical and ethical studies themes
- Exam duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Worth 50% of final mark
Are there higher and foundation tiers?
No. All students sit the same exam and study the same content, with questions designed to allow achievement across the full range of grades (9–1).
Are there any field trips or enrichment opportunities?
The RE Department strongly believes in the value of studying actual places of worship with visits to churches, synagogues and mosques and will try to organise such visits if circumstances allow.
Will the course be good preparation for post-16 study?
Yes it will. RE enables students to get an overview of religious beliefs across the world, which often contribute to events in history and our own times. RE, Philosophy and Sociology are increasingly popular subjects at A Level and the GCSE is good preparation for such studies. It is also an invaluable preparation for future study and your career as it will help you to understand and get along with the different people you will be working with.
