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 inquisitive mind, an ability to listen to others and be able to justify what you think. Having these qualities 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 B Pearson (Edexcel) 1RB0

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:

  • Section 1: Religion and Ethics (Christianity)
  • Section 2: Religion, Peace and Conflict (Islam)

 

Section 1 – Christianity

This area of study comprises a study in depth of Christianity as a lived religion within the United Kingdom and throughout the world, and its beliefs and teachings on life, specifically within families, and with regard to matters of life and death.

Students should also recognise that within Christianity there may be more than one perspective in the way beliefs and teachings are understood and expressed. Common and divergent views within Christianity in the way beliefs and teachings are understood and expressed should be included throughout, including reference to Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant and other Christian traditions.

Topics:
Christian Beliefs
Christian Practices (Living the Christian Life)
Marriage and the Family
Matters of life and Death

Assessment:
Paper 1: 1hr 45 minutes

 

Section 2 – Islam

This area of study comprises a study in depth of Islam as a lived religion within the United Kingdom and throughout the world, and its beliefs and teachings on life, specifically about the issues of peace and conflict, and crime and punishment.

There are four sections: Islamic Beliefs, Crime and Punishment, Living the Muslim Life and Peace and Conflict. Students should also recognise that within Islam there may be more than one perspective in the way beliefs and teachings are understood and expressed. Common and divergent views within Islam in the way beliefs and teachings are understood and expressed should be included throughout, including reference to Sunni and Shi’a traditions.

Topics:
Muslim Beliefs
Muslim Practices (Living the Muslim Life)
Peace and Conflict
Crime and Punishment

Assessment:
Paper 2: 1hr 45 minutes

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: 31/01/2025