Heads of Department: Mr H F Tatham (MS) Mr J M Lewis (HMSG) Board: WJEC
Religious Studies is a subject that, by its very nature, requires the consideration of moral, ethical, social and contemporary issues. Students have the opportunity to study responses – both past and present – to ultimate questions, to explore the relationship between religion and culture, and to engage in a quest to find meaning in life. Students will explore the moral values and attitudes of contemporary society, including those of faith communities, and consider whether ultimate values exist.
Students gain investigative, analytical and evaluative skills. They are required to make reasoned judgements in relation to values, attitudes and actions. In considering key concepts, major issues and the contribution of significant people, religious language and terminology are also acquired. There is no requirement for prior study of the subject.
AS Level
Two modules will be studied:
Introduction to Philosophy of Religion (RS1/2 PHIL):
Questions about the existence of God and how philosophers have tried to prove or disprove this throughout history; the problem and nature of evil; mystical experiences of God.
Introduction to the New Testament (RS1/2 BS):
The life and work of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospels, with specific focus on the incarnation, death and resurrection, the miracles and parables.
A2 Level
A further two modules will be studied:
Studies in the New Testament (RS3 BS):
A study of the early church in the 1st century AD, focusing on its history, growth, practices, beliefs and ethical teachings.
Studies in Religion and Human Experience (RS4 HE):
The synoptic module, bringing together ideas from all areas of the syllabus, focusing on the nature, strengths, influence and limitations of religious authority.
Assessment:
At AS Level, there will be two written exams, each of 1¼ hours in length. Each paper consists of four essay questions, subdivided into two parts, from which candidates must choose two. At A2 Level, there will be a further two written exams, each of 1¾ hours in length. The New Testament paper consists of four essay questions, subdivided into two parts, from which candidates must choose two. The synoptic paper is a two-section essay, which is prepared in advance and reproduced under exam conditions.
"I feel that the AS-Level course has opened many paths of thought to me which would otherwise not have occurred. The philosophy element is deeply interesting as a study of the arguments for and against the justice of God allowing pain and suffering, and studying the arguments put forward throughout the centuries as attempts to prove His existence. The other part of the course, New Testament studies, is very different but equally as interesting. The reasons for the differences between the accounts of the Synoptic Gospels, how the writers influenced them and biblical criticism are all very relevant in understanding the way in which the church has progressed from its foundation. There is, as with all subjects, a certain amount of work, but it is not a strain if you are interested personally in the topics. The lessons’ tendencies to turn to intellectual debates result in them being more of a pleasure than a bore." Alasdair, VI.I
A Level Religious Studies...
… helps you to understand the world’s different religions and cultures.
… gives clear insights into current affairs and media issues.
… enhances your ability to discuss, debate and to make an effective argument, both orally and in essays.
… allows you to engage in discussion of challenging moral and ethical issues.
… makes you think!