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Luton Sixth Form

Religious Studies (A Level)

Why study Religious Studies?

Religious Studies is a popular subject and the subject is highly regarded by universities and employers alike. It is one of the traditional academic subjects and it indicates that the student is someone with depth who is able to understand people, cultures and new ways of thinking and is someone who has thought about those essential questions relating to God, one’s purpose, life, morals and death. We expect our students to have a real desire to learn and to have a good positive
attitude and excellent manners.

Entry Requirements

In addition to our general entry requirements, you must have:

  • GCSE English – grade 4

The Course

Religious Studies is a subject about people, faith and hearts and so is possibly one of the most relevant and useful courses you can ever take, especially in today’s world. The subject looks at some of the most inspiring individuals who have walked this earth. We look at how societies and people were radically changed through just a few words and excellent behaviour. Religious Studies makes one think and reflect on one’s purpose and what it means to be human.

Course Activities

You will learn in a variety of stimulating ways through discussion, independent research, debate, videos, guest speakers, the internet, trips in the UK and abroad and keeping up-to-date with current world affairs. In Religious Studies we will teach you how to think critically and become great learners, but the work and effort comes from you and you alone. Real learning is not limited to a classroom and we expect great things from Religious Studies students. You are encouraged to learn actively by developing yourself as an individual, perfecting your character and caring for the community you live in. We recommend that you devote 4.5 hours of private study time per week to this subject.

Career and Progression Opportunities

Our students progress to a variety of university courses and careers. Religious Studies students are highly regarded by many institutions as they are individuals who understand people and have thought deeply about profound topics. Our students have gone on to study all sorts of subjects from Religious Studies to Law to Medicine. Religious Studies students train in all fields and enter all types of professions including working in policy making, law, management, teaching, medicine, social work, and science.

Course Structure and Assessment

The syllabus is divided into three units.

Unit title and content Assessment

Unit 1: A Study of Religion (Islam)

  • Religious figures and sacred texts.
  • Religious concepts and religious life.
  • Significant social and historical developments in religious thought.
  • Religious practices and religious identity.
  • Two-hour written
    examination.
  • Students must answer TWO questions: one from Section A out of a choice of two, one from Section B out of a choice of three.
  • 33.3% of total A Level.

Unit 2: Philosophy of Religion

  • Arguments for the existence of God.
  • Challenges to religious belief.
  • Religious experience.
    Religious language.
  • Two-hour written
    examination.
  • Students must answer TWO questions: one from Section A out of a choice of two, one from Section B out of a choice of three.
  • 33.3% of total A Level

Unit 3: Religion and Ethics

  • Ethical language and thought.
  • Deontological ethics.
  • Teleological ethics.
  • Freewill and determination
  • Two-hour written
    examination.
  • Students must answer TWO questions: one from Section A out of a choice of two, one from Section B out of a choice of three.
  • 33.3% of total A Level.

Additional Information

Examination Board: Pearson Edexcel

 

 

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