Curriculum overview for A Level Religious Studies (Philosophy, Ethics and Christian Thought)

Curriculum intent – the knowledge, understanding and skills that students will learn
During the A Level Religious Studies course, students develop their knowledge and understanding over a range of topics, across three components – Philosophy of Religion, Religion and Ethics, and Developments in Religious Thought (focusing on Christianity) – through a coherent and thought-provoking programme of study.  In Philosophy of Religion, students study philosophical issues and questions raised by religion and belief. These include arguments regarding the existence or non-existence of God, the nature and influence of religious experience and the problems of evil and suffering.  They explore philosophical language and thought, through significant concepts and the works of key thinkers, illustrated in issues or debates in the philosophy of religion. Religion and Ethics is characterised by the study of ethical language and thought, with exploration of key concepts and the works of influential thinkers. Ethical theories (Natural Law, Utilitarianism, Situation Ethics and Kantian Ethics) are applied to issues of importance, namely euthanasia, business ethics, and sexual ethics.  ‘Developments in religious thought’ provides an opportunity for the systematic study of one religious tradition. This will include the exploration of religious beliefs, values, teachings and practices that shape religious identity, as well as sources of wisdom and authority.  Also central to this unit are the ways in which religious traditions have developed over time, and religious responses to challenges and significant contemporary social issues.  Students will build on knowledge, understanding and skills learnt at GCSE, especially if they have undertaken GCSE Religious Studies, finding familiarity with some of the content.  They will continue to learn to construct well-argued, well-informed, balanced and structured written arguments, demonstrating their depth and breadth of understanding of the subject, using scholarly views and material to support their responses, and supporting the development of these skills in other curriculum areas.  The A Level Religious Studies course is designed to develop a greater understanding and appreciation of religious beliefs and teachings, as well as the disciplines of ethics and philosophy of religion.  Throughout the course students develop their skills of critical analysis in order to construct balanced, informed arguments and responses to religious, philosophical and ethical ideas.  This course promotes and provides students with valuable skills for their future development, such as analytical and critical thinking, the ability to work with abstract ideas, leadership and research skills, whilst also equipping them with the ability to consider challenging ethical ideas and the implications of them in the modern world.  Student engagement with questions of belief, value, meaning, purpose, truth, and their influence on human life, reflecting on and developing their own values, beliefs and attitudes, will contribute to their preparation for adult life in a pluralistic society and global community.

Curriculum implementation – teaching, learning and assessment strategies
The A Level Religious Studies course is taught across Years 12 and 13, with the three components interwoven throughout.  Each topic is taught in a similar format, teacher-led supported by various textbooks, along with questioning and much discussion and debate.  As the A Level is assessed completely by examination at the end of Year 13 – three exams, one for each component (Philosophy of Religion; Religion and Ethics; Developments in Christian Thought) – students complete a timed written essay at the end of each topic, which is assessed and graded.  Additionally, students complete three sets of ‘pre-public’ mock exams throughout the course.  In-class discussions enable students to formulate and structure arguments to explain key ideas which prepares them to write confident answers for the examination questions requiring evaluative responses.

Curriculum impact – intended outcomes for students 
Students undertaking the A Level Religious Studies course may have completed GCSE Religious Studies, and will build on knowledge, understanding and skills gained in Key Stage 4. However, this is not a requirement for studying the A Level qualification. The course aims to engage students thoroughly in their learning, to develop an interest in Religious Studies which extends beyond the classroom and can be applied to the world around them, thereby enabling students to finish the course with an understanding of theological concepts and religious doctrines, having explored some of the fundamental Christian beliefs and teaching which have shaped many Western societies for the last two thousand years. They will have some comprehension of the historical and cultural significance of these beliefs, the influence of philosophical and religious thinking on individuals, communities and societies, and the interwoven nature of philosophical, ethical and religious thought deeply embedded within contemporary British society today.  Furthermore, students will recognise multiple understandings and expressions of beliefs and teachings, having explored various philosophical and ethical standpoints, and Christian thought.  The course provides a suitable foundation for further study of Religious Studies and similar courses, using the same skills of reflection, enquiry, critical analysis and evaluation, and extended written argument expected in Further or Higher Education.  Likewise, the study of contemporary issues, and emphasis on critical analysis provides a strong foundation for progression directly into employment for those who do not wish to continue onto a higher level of education. By the end of the course, students will be able to accurately apply their knowledge and understanding to answer exam questions, as well as engage in discussions about our world and our existence within it, drawing on their own lived experiences and on their philosophical, ethical and religious learning.  

Course overview for A Level Religious Studies
Exam board: OCR - https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-and-a-level/religious-studies-h173-h573-from-2016/
Coursework: N/A

Area of study 1: Philosophy of Religion (Paper 1)
Ancient Philosophy
Soul, mind and body
Arguments for the existence of God based on observation
Arguments for the existence of God based on reasons
Religious Experience
Problem of Evil 
The Nature of God (Part 1
The Nature of God Part 2
Religious Language Part 1
Religious Language Part 2    

Area of study 2: Religion and Ethics (Paper 2)
Natural Law
Situation Ethics
Utilitarianism
Kantian Ethics
Euthanasia
Business Ethics 
Ethical Language
Conscience
Sexual Ethics

Area of study 3: Development in Christian Thought (DCT) (Paper 3)
Augustine on human nature 
Death & Afterlife
Knowledge of God’s Existence
Jesus Christ
Christian Moral Principles
Christian Moral Actions
Religious Pluralism and Theology
Religious Pluralism and Society
Gender and Theology
Gender and Society
The Challenge of Secularism
Liberation Theology and Marxism