Course Leader: Wendy O’Sullivan – wendyosullivan@kba.uk
WHAT WILL I NEED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?
Students must achieve a Grade 6 in GCSE English Language or English Literature and have an interest in exploring philosophical, ethical and religious issues.
You do not need to be religious to study A-Level Religious Studies. The course is open to students with a range of beliefs and viewpoints, including atheists, agnostics and theists. An open mind, a willingness to question ideas and an enthusiasm for discussion are important.
WHAT WILL I DO?
A-Level Religious Studies explores some of life’s biggest questions about existence, belief, morality and the world around us. You will investigate philosophical arguments, consider how we decide what is right and wrong, and examine the beliefs and influence of Christianity.
You will study the ideas of influential traditional and modern thinkers, explore different perspectives and develop your own reasoned arguments. You will also consider how religious and philosophical ideas relate to contemporary issues, including science, society, politics and moral decision-making.
The course involves a considerable amount of reading, writing and discussion. Lessons include debate, independent research, group activities, peer teaching, oral presentations, text and video analysis, problem-solving activities and examination workshops.
COURSE CONTENT AND COMPONENTS
Component 1: Philosophy of Religion and Ethics
You will consider some of life’s biggest questions:
- Does God exist?
- Why is there suffering in the world?
- Is there a soul, and what happens after death?
- How do we decide what is right and wrong?
- Do we have free will, and are we morally responsible for our actions?
You will explore arguments for the existence of God, evil and suffering, religious experience, religious language and miracles. In ethics, you will study influential ethical theories and apply them to issues such as abortion, euthanasia, capital punishment, animal welfare and the use of animals in scientific research.
You will also examine conscience, free will and moral responsibility, including a comparison of the ethical approaches of Bentham and Kant.
This thought-provoking component develops critical thinking, essay writing and discussion skills that are highly valued by universities and employers.
Component 2: Study of Religion and Dialogues – Christianity
You will explore the beliefs, teachings and influence of Christianity, one of the world's most significant religions, and consider the challenges Christianity faces in the modern world.
Topics include:
- Sources of wisdom and authority
- The nature of God and ultimate reality
- Self, death and the afterlife
- Good conduct and key moral principles
- Religious identity
- Religion, gender and sexuality
- Religion and science
- Religion and secularisation
- Religious pluralism and the relationship between different faiths
You will consider how science has challenged Christian belief, how Christianity responds to modern social and cultural changes, and how Christian beliefs connect with philosophical and ethical questions. You will engage with different viewpoints and evaluate how religious ideas influence individuals and society.
ASSESSMENT AND FEEDBACK
A-Level Religious Studies is assessed through two written examinations at the end of Year 13:
- Component 1: Philosophy of Religion and Ethics – 3-hour written examination, worth 50% of the A-Level.
- Component 2: Study of Religion and Dialogues (Christianity) – 3-hour written examination, worth 50% of the A-Level.
You will develop the skills needed to demonstrate detailed knowledge and understanding, analyse and evaluate arguments, interpret scholarly views and construct clear, well-supported conclusions.
You will complete regular examination-style questions throughout the course and receive teacher feedback to help you improve. Lessons also include knowledge-retrieval activities to assess prior learning, and termly folder checks to help you stay organised and on track.
Students should expect approximately 6–8 hours of independent study each week, including pre-reading, reviewing lesson content, independent research, planning and writing examination answers.
PROGRESSION – WHAT CAN I DO AT THE END OF THE COURSE?
Religious Studies develops highly transferable skills, including critical thinking, analysis, evaluation, problem-solving, research, communication and the ability to construct persuasive arguments.
The subject provides a strong foundation for further study in Philosophy, Theology, Religious Studies, Law, Politics, Sociology, History and other humanities and social science subjects.
It is also valuable for a wide range of careers, including law, journalism, media, publishing, politics, teaching, medicine, social work, marketing, advertising, public relations, communications, event management and working with charities.
Religious Studies is a respected academic subject that encourages students to question, reflect and understand different perspectives. It is relevant to anyone interested in exploring life’s big questions and developing skills for further study and future employment.