Religious Studies

Religious Studies at A Level is a rigorous and thought-provoking exploration of ethics, philosophy and theology. It challenges students to question assumptions, dismantle bias and rebuild their understanding of the world with greater depth, precision and confidence.

At its core, A Level Religious Studies is a masterclass in critical thinking. Students engage with some of the most influential thinkers in history, from Anselm’s ontological argument to Jeremy Bentham’s utilitarianism, learning how to analyse complex ideas, evaluate arguments and construct well-reasoned judgements. The subject moves far beyond opinion: it teaches students how to handle abstract concepts such as the existence of God, the problem of evil, the nature of the soul and moral responsibility through logic, evidence and disciplined argument.

These skills are directly transferable to higher education and beyond. Whether in a philosophy seminar, a law lecture, a medical ethics discussion or a politics debate, the ability to identify assumptions, challenge weak reasoning and defend a clear position is invaluable. RS develops the confidence to read demanding texts, write with sophistication and think independently — skills that are highly respected by universities and employers.

The ethics component of the course also provides a powerful bridge to some of the most urgent issues in the modern world. Through the study of ethical theories and real-life moral dilemmas, students learn to articulate reasoned responses to topics such as abortion, euthanasia, animal experimentation and the value of human life. This makes RS especially relevant for careers in medicine, law, journalism, politics, education, social work and any profession where people must weigh competing claims and make difficult decisions with integrity.

Ultimately, A Level Religious Studies is not simply about studying religion. It is about understanding people, ideas and the world we live in. It equips students with the intellectual tools to question deeply, argue persuasively and approach complex issues with empathy, clarity and maturity.

We follow the WJEC Eduqas Examination syllabus which is a 2 year course with the main exams being at the end of Year 13. Students will study the following themes for the Christianity unit over the 2 years:

• Jesus’s birth and resurrection
• The Bible as a source of wisdom and authority
• The early Christian church
• Different scholarly views of Jesus
• The religious concepts of: the nature of God, the Trinity and atonement
• Religious Life including a study of the key moral principles such as charity and the community of believers
• Attitudes towards the following issues: wealth, migration and equality and discrimination
• The relationship between religion and society
• Historical developments in religious thought
• Religious identity through baptism, the Eucharist; festivals such as Christmas and Easter; unification; religious experience, responses to poverty and injustice

Students will study the following themes for the Philosophy of Religion unit over the 2 years:

• The Cosmological Argument
• The Teleological Argument
• The Ontological Argument
• The Problem of evil and suffering
• Religious belief as a product of the human mind
• Issues relating to the rejection of religion
• Religious experience
• Religious language

Students will study the following themes for the Religion and Ethics unit over the 2 years:

• Ethical Thought
• Natural Law and Proportionalism and its application to the ethical issues of abortion, voluntary euthanasia, immigration and capital punishment
• Situation Ethics and its application to the ethical issues of homosexuality, polyamorous relationships, animal experimentation and the use of nuclear weapons
• Determinism and Free will

A level RS students are required to complete 5 hours of private study per week, this is closely monitored with regular folder checks. Students are given support to develop their essay writing skills. This course is assessed entirely through examination in May/June in year 2.

EXPECTATIONS:

A level students are required to complete 5 hours of private study per week, this is closely monitored with regular folder checks. Students are given support to develop their essay writing skills. This course is assessed entirely through examination in May/June.

Examinations take place at the end of year 2 where students will be taking three examinations overall for each component; Christianity, Philosophy of Religion and Religion and Ethics.

SPECIFICATION WEBSITE LINK:

https://www.eduqas.co.uk/qualifications/religious-studies-as-a-level/#tab_keydocuments

Assessment Objective AO1 – Part (a) questions 20 marks

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of religion and belief, including: - religious, philosophical and/or ethical thought and teaching - influence of beliefs, teachings and practices on individuals, communities and societies - cause and significance of similarities and differences in belief, teaching and practice - approaches to the study of religion and belief.

Assessment Objective AO2- Part (b) questions 30 marks

Analyse and evaluate aspects of, and approaches to, religion and belief, including their significance, influence and study.

Reading List

Visual Curriculum Map