Head of Department:  H.F. Tatham         Board:  AQA

The Course:

The GCSE course is based around the study of Christianity. However, the 'specification does not presuppose faith and is designed to be accessible to persons of any religious persuasion or none' . Rather it gives pupils the opportunity to engage with the world's largest religion and consider its role in history and shaping the world we encounter today.

The course as a whole encourages students to acquire knowledge and develop understanding of beliefs, values and tradition and the influence these have on the world around them.

In Form IV pupils will have the chance to engage with a unique text in the form of Mark's Gospel and to consider the figure of Jesus, his life and teaching and continuing global importance.

In Form V pupils will be encouraged to identify, investigate and respond to fundamental questions raised by religion and human experience, including the meaning and purpose of life. Religious and other responses to moral issues such as abortion, euthanasia, justice and punishment, conflict, prejudice, the environment and poverty will be considered.

Assessment:

Candidates sit two papers, both at the end of Form V:

Unit 5  -  St. Mark's Gospel
Unit 2  -  Christianity:  Ethics

Each paper comprises 50% of the total mark awarded.
There is no coursework requirement.