Religious Studies KS4

All pupils take Religious Studies at GCSE, following either the GCSE Full Course, or the GCSE Short Course options.

GCSE Short Course is of the same standard as the full GCSE, it is simply half the volume of material covered in half the number of periods. It is recognised qualification, equivalent to half a GCSE and appears with other subjects taken on the GCSE certificate.

What will I study?

Candidates for GCSE Religious Studies will study two units over the two years as follows:

1. An Introduction to Christian Ethics - This unit aims to introduce students to ethics within the study of religion.  Students explore personal and family issues, matters of life and death, care for the environment, equality, and war and peace.  Study will include investigation of Biblical teaching and Christian belief/ practice.

2. An Introduction to Philosophy of Religion - This unit aims to introduce students to philosophical ideas surrounding the study of religion.  It enables students to explore issues surrounding the existence of God, the nature of God, how human beings relate to God, the problem of evil/ suffering and issues of life after death.  Study will include an exploration of the belief/practice of different world religions with regard to these questions.

Candidates for GCSE Short Course Religious Studies will study one unit over the two years as follows:

An introduction to Christian Ethics ( see above for elaboration).

Coursework / Practical

There is no coursework requirement for either GCES Religious Studies or GCSE Short Course Religious Studies.

What Exams will I take?

GCSE Religious Studies candidates will sit two written examinations (one on each of the units studied) at the end of Form 5.  Each examination will represent 50% of the final mark awarded.

GCSE Short Course Religious Studies candidates will sit one written examination at the end of Form 5. This examination will represent 100% of the final mark awarded.