This course looks at the big questions of life and how to apply theories and religious beliefs to everyday life. For example, Why does God allow suffering? How should we treat the planet? What do religions say about War and Conflict? Did Jesus have to die? What do religions say about abortions? If these topics and those listed below interest you, Religious Education is probably for you.
The units available on the course, from which two will be chosen, are as follows:
Paper 1 will consist of questions about Christian and Buddhist beliefs, teachings and practices. Question 1 (Christianity) and Question 5 (Buddhism). The questions will be both on beliefs and practices.
Paper 2 will consist of the following themes:
You get marks for showing your understanding of view and practices (and the thinking behind them). Also for expressing your own view with reasons.
Being able to think, talk and write about the issues studied gives you a great background to many other subjects, and the skills you will use, such as considering the views of others, are applicable in lots of other areas of study. Philosophy and Ethics can help you understand other people better, and help form your thinking on many topics that could affect your life.
Paper 1 is 1 hour 45 minutes which you will sit at the end of Year 11. You answer Question 1 (Christianity) and Question 5 (Buddhism). The questions will be on both beliefs and practices. You are advised to spend 50 minutes on each religion.
Paper 2 is also 1 hour 45 minutes which you will sit at the end of Year 11. You will answer four questions/themes on: Relationships and Families; Religion and Life; Religion, Religion, Peace, Conflict and Crime and Punishment. You are advised to spend 25 minutes on each theme.
A healthy interest in religious ideas and how religion influences life decisions, enjoyment of debate and discussion; this is a written subject which will require you to read and willing to learn to write essays; being open-minded is essential.
Career Opportunities
Post-16 opportunities
After you have finished this course you may want to go on to further study, such as A levels in Religion and Philosophy, Politics and Law.