Garth Hill College - KS4 Options Handbook 2024 - Flipbook - Page 13
Religious Studies GCSE
Subject Leader: Mrs D Brown-Fyffe
Examination Board: AQA: Specification A
Please note that this course is completely separate from core studies.
Course Outline
GCSE Religious Studies provides the opportunity to explore big questions about life and ethics. Pupils will
develop key skills in expressing opinion and considering a variety of other viewpoints, including religious and
non-religious views.
The development of literacy skills through the course will also benefit pupils in their other GCSE studies. The
ability to understand and appreciate others is essential to any career that involves working with people
including healthcare, armed forces, education, social work, law and the media.
The course complements other humanities subjects, but also includes elements of scientific enquiry, for
example studying the implications of the big bang theory and evolution for believers. It is ideal preparation
for anyone considering further study in the areas of philosophy, sociology, law or psychology.
The course is hugely relevant to everyday life and supports the development of key knowledge and skills that
will be beneficial throughout life.
Unit 1: The Study of Religions: Beliefs, Teachings and Practices
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Christianity
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Hinduism
Unit 2: Thematic Studies
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Theme A: Relationships and families
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Theme B: Religion and life
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Theme C: The existence of God and revelation
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Theme E: Religion, crime and punishment
Each unit is worth 50% of the final grade and is assessed through a 1 hour 45-minute examination worth 118
marks. There is no coursework.
Home Learning
One hour of home learning will be set per week. Pupils will also be expected to devote additional time to
research and revision. We encourage them to make use of the library, the internet and discussion with
other people.
KEY STAGE 4 OPTIONS
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