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COURSE CONTENT
Religious Studies is a modular course.
At AS Level, 2 modules are studied:
1. Religion and Ethics 1
How do we decide what is right?
This examines issues such as Abortion and Euthanasia and the related issues such as the legislation of the UK and right of humans to decide who lives and who dies.
Three ethical standpoints are examined: Utilitarianism, Situation Ethics and the Religious Teaching on the Nature and Value of Human Life. These are applied to various ethical issues, such as Cloning, Genetic Engineering, Transplantation and War and Peace.
2. World Religions: Buddhism
Buddhism is one of the fastest growing religious traditions in the West.
It has a myriad of famous followers .......... but what are its beliefs?
This module examines the basic traditions and beliefs of Buddhism and shows how these beliefs affect the everyday life of a Buddhist. The module specifically addresses Buddhist beliefs about life after death, how Buddhists strive to avoid pain and suffering and reach Enlightenment or Nirvana. It is expected that the majority of candidates will continue the course onto A2 Level. At A2 Level, a further 2 modules are studied.
3. Ethics
Are human beings really free? Are we ‘fated' to act in a certain way? Is it a question of genetics?
The ethical theory of Virtue Ethics is examined and applied to modern ethical issues such as Cloning. Religious views on sexual behaviour and human relationships are examined - is sex outside marriage wrong?
The ethics of animal experimentation will be discussed, alongside the ethics of modern science such as cyber crime and surveillance.
4. Life, Death and Beyond
This examines religious and secular perspectives on the nature and value of human life.
The Bible is examined for clues as to what happens after we die.
Is it a physical or non-physical existence?
Are there any ‘clues' or ‘signs' as to when the world might end?
Is it important to have a belief in life after death?
How important is the present life on Earth?
Different ideas about life after death are discussed, both religious and non-religious, and from the Eastern and Western traditions.
How do we decide what is right? Examines issues such as Cloning; Genetic Engineering; Abortion; Euthanasia; Organ Donation; The Environment. What are the issues involved with these? Are they right? What would a Christian think of them?
TEACHING
Various methods of teaching are employed, including the use of texts, small group discussion, investigating case studies, and individual research. Written tasks will be complemented by appropriate video material.
ASSESSMENT
Primarily a modular course, with each module assessed with a 1 hour examination usually in the Summer Term. Summaries, set questions and essays are set regularly as a means of assessing progress through the course and preparing for external examinations. Additionally, periodic tests of factual recall are set to check learning and understanding.
THE REQUIREMENTS
An inquiring and open mind is a must.
A passion for ideas, difficult questions and the ability to process information.
A Grade C at GCSE short course or full course is a minimum requirement.
THE FUTURE
Philosophy graduates are much sought after although many who do AS/A2 level often follow degrees not related to Philosophy, Theology or Religious Studies, although nearly half of this year's intake have been inspired to do so! Popular combinations with Religious Studies at degree level include Philosophy, Politics and the Humanities.
FURTHER INFORMATION
See Mr A Rogers, Subject Leader for Religious Studies.
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