Religious Studies

Religious Studies is a core subject in the school. Pupils learn about the beliefs of different faith groups as well as those of Catholics. Moral issues are widely discussed and pupils learn to consider the values which they believe to be important when making moral decisions.

At GCSE level the assessment is based on religious beliefs and lifestyles, Christianity, and St Luke's gospel. Each paper has two parts:

  • Part A: four compulsory short-answer stimulus-response (48 marks)
  • Part B: one of two optional extended response questions (24 marks)
For millions of people, the practice of their Christian faith touches every aspect of their lives. Many of the laws and much of society in Britain have been formed under the influence of Christian teachings. The Bible is still one of the best selling books in the world. Although the Gospels were written two thousand years ago, they are certainly not ‘dead’ texts. Students are offered the opportunity to study in some depth how Christians apply the gospel message to their lives. Specific Christian traditions can offer insights into issues of identity, belonging, meaning, purpose, truth, values, commitments and social responsibility.
 
To succeed in Religious Studies pupils need to be prepared to think about and form opinions on a wide range of topics. They also need to learn how to exchange these views with tolerance and respect. The course does not make any assumptions about the faith background of the candidates. Pupils are encouraged to offer their own opinions and learn how to support their views with sound arguments and evidence.
 

 CONTENT OF UNIT 6

 
  • Why Luke wrote the gospel
  • The idea of salvation
  • The authority of Jesus
  • The suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus
  • Universalism
  • Discipleship

 CONTENT OF UNIT 2

 
  • Personal responsibility (with particular reference to drug taking and sexual relationships)
  • Social responsibility (with reference to marriage)
  • Protection, respect and preservation of human life
  • Global concerns (poverty and the environment)
  • Conflict (which covers both ‘war and peace’ and ‘crime and punishment’)