GCSEWJEC Eduqas
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Religious StudiesNever before has learning about different religious beliefs been so important. Religion and beliefs inform our values and are reflected in what we say and how we behave. Religious Studies provokes challenging questions about the ultimate meaning and purpose of life, beliefs about God, the Self and the nature of reality, issues of right and wrong and what it means to be Human. RS develops pupils’ knowledge and understanding of the nature of religion and belief including Christianity, other principal religions, other religious traditions, and world views that offer answers to these challenging questions.
Quick informationWhat do we teach?
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Key Stage 3We have a discrete lesson for RE in key stage 3 because we feel that this best provides a basis for the GCSE that students pursue at KS4. There is one compulsory lesson a week in KS4 this meets the governments requirements for RE delivery. We follow short course because this then also gives the students a GCSE outcome which adds to their CV. Students who wish can top this up to the full course GCSE by opting for it as an option at KS4 at the end of Year 9. RE coverage at KS5 remains ad hoc and is covered through the Tutorial programme covered by the Head of 6th form through guest speakers etc. Key Stage 3 pupils study a wide range of religious beliefs and then compare and contrast them. They then begin to apply these beliefs to philosophical and moral issues that affect us today. Topics and religions covered at Key Stage 3 include;
There are many enrichment and extra-curricular activities for Key Stage 3 pupils to take part in to help raise their attainment, including guest speakers – specifically the Youth Net, visits to local places of worship, visits to Lichfield Cathedral, and foreign visits. GCSEKey Stage 4 pupils currently study for the WJEC Eduqas GCSE. This consists of six topics (full course), including ethics topics on:
There are also topics on Christianity and Buddhism. These two religions were chosen as they give contrasting opinions and reflections on the various issues we have to deal with on the course. They also offer a diversity of eastern and western based religion. Students can opt to complete either short or full course GCSE RE. Short Course The short course only covers topics on Christianity, Buddhism, Relationships and Life and Death. Relationships covers topics on the family, attitudes towards sex; marriage and divorce. It is a popular topic in class. Life and Death looks at the complicated issues of abortion and Euthanasia focusing on questions to do with quality and sanctity of life. The topic also covers the many religious and scientific theories on creation and evolution. Full Course If students opt for the full course they will also cover the topics on Human Rights and Good and Evil. The former looks into the different religious positions and the evolution of the idea of Human Rights over time. There are also depth studies into religious leaders who have stood up to human rights abuses including Malala Yousafzai who fights for equal rights for girl’s education. The religious element of the course focuses on the beliefs and teachings of both Christianity and Buddhism. Students who choose full course will also cover practices of both religions as well. Religious Studies offers opportunities for personal reflection and spiritual development. It enhances awareness and understanding of religions and beliefs, teachings, practices and forms of expression and of the influence of religion on individuals, families, communities and cultures. There is support at both ends of the academic spectrum for the subject. Students who struggle to achieve are offered extra support from staff in the form of targeted planning and questioning, 1:1 support and revisions sessions. |
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