What is a GCSE in Religious Studies?

If you like arguing, debating and being critical then this is the course for you. So many careers need you to have an open and critical mind, an ability to listen to others and be able to justify what you think. You need an open mind and willingness to discuss important and complex issues. It enables you to think about yourself as well as religious and moral issues. This course is a perfect stepping stone for you into an ever changing, interconnected and often challenging modern world.

Course Details

Qualification Exam Board Specification
GCSE Religious Studies AQA 8062

Subject Leader

Mr J. Huthart
Subject Leader for Religious Studies

Course Overview

The video below explains the different topics you will study on the Religious Studies course.

 

You will study two components over the two year course:

  • Component 1 – The study of religions: beliefs, teachings and practices
  • Component 2 – Religious, Philosophical and Ethical Thematic studies

 

Component 1

You will study the beliefs, teachings and practices of two religions. At Kepier we will study Catholic Christianity and Hinduism:

  • Catholic Christianity – You will look at the key beliefs of God as a trinity of three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. You will study the creation story in Genesis, the belief that Jesus is incarnate, the idea of redemption and life after death. You will also look at the importance of worship, prayer, the seven sacraments and the work of the church in the community.
  • Hinduism – You will look at the key beliefs of Brahman and the manifestations of God in the world. You will study how the divine presents in the form of different deities and avatars including Krishna and Rama. You will also look at the ideas of atman, reincarnation and dharma. You will finally analyse different Hindu festivals, like diwali and Holi and the impact Hindu belief has on peoples’ lives and ways of worship.

How will it be assessed? Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes, 96 marks, plus 6 marks for spelling, punctuation and grammar (SPaG) – 50% of GCSE

 

Component 2

You will study four religious, philosophical and ethical studies themes:

Religion and Life: The existence of God and revelations:
  • Abortion
  • Euthanasia
  • Animal Experimentation
  • Origin of the Universe
  • VIsions
  • MIracles
  • Arguments for the existence of God
Religion, Peace and Conflict: Religion, crime and punishment:
  • Violence
  • Weapons of mass destruction
  • Pacifism
  • Corporal punishment
  • Death penalty
  • Forgiveness

How will it be assessed? Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes, 96 marks, plus 3 marks for spelling, punctuation and grammar (SPaG) – 50% of GCSE

 

Got A Question?

If you have a question about Religious Studies you can use the form below to contact Mr Huthart, Subject Leader for Religious Studies.

     

    Updated: 07/02/2024