Qualification: GCSE Religious Studies (9–1), Route A

Level: 1 & 2
Exam Board: Eduqas

What you learn about:

Eduqas GCSE Religious Studies (Route A) invites students to explore fundamental religious, philosophical, and ethical questions that influence individuals and societies. Through this course, learners engage with themes such as relationships, life and death, good and evil, and human rights. They also study the beliefs, teachings, and practices of Christianity and a chosen world faith (such as Buddhism), helping them understand diverse perspectives and develop informed, reflective thinking.

During the course, students will study:

• Component 1: Religious, Philosophical and Ethical Studies in the Modern World – Four key themes: relationships, life and death, good and evil, and human rights.

• Component 2: Study of Christianity – Covering Christian beliefs, teachings, and practices.

• Component 3: Study of a World Faith – In-depth study of Buddhism.

Assessment:

• Component 1 – Religious, Philosophical and Ethical Studies in the Modern World
  Written exam: 2 hours, 50% of qualification
  All questions are compulsory and test knowledge, understanding, and evaluative skills.

• Component 2 – Study of Christianity
  Written exam: 1 hour, 25% of qualification
  Focused on Christian beliefs, teachings, and practices.

• Component 3 – Study of a World Faith
  Written exam: 1 hour, 25% of qualification
  Covers the selected world faith, focused on Buddhist beliefs, teachings, and practices.

Other Information:

• Linear structure: All exams are taken in a single assessment series at the end of the course.

• Assessment Objectives:

  • AO1 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of religion and belief*, including:
    • Beliefs, practices and sources of authority
    • Influence on individuals, communities and societies
    • Similarities and differences within and/or between religions and beliefs

  • AO2 Analyse and evaluate aspects of religion and belief*, including their significance and influence *

  • The term ‘belief’ includes religious and non-religious beliefs as appropriate to the subject content requirements

  • Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar (SPaG) forms part of the marks in required questions.

• What students will gain:
  A rich understanding of religious and non-religious worldviews, the ability to debate and reflect on ethical issues, and the capacity to construct balanced, respectful arguments about belief and values in a multicultural society.

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