Curriculum overview for GCSE Religious Studies

Curriculum intent – the knowledge, understanding and skills that students will learn
During the GCSE Religious Studies course, students will develop their knowledge and understanding of two major world religions – Christianity and Islam – alongside non-religious beliefs, such as atheism and humanism, specifically in relation to ethical issues. Their understanding of Christianity and Islam will comprise of learning about key religious beliefs and teachings, as well as considering sources of wisdom and authority, specifically the holy books and key religious figures, that underpin these and support contemporary faith, analysing and evaluating the value and application of these teachings in today’s society. Students will engage with questions of belief, value, meaning, purpose, truth, and their influence on human life, reflecting on and developing their own values, beliefs and attitudes in light of what they have learnt and will contribute to their preparation for adult life in a pluralistic society and global community.  They will learn to construct well-argued, well-informed, balanced and structured written arguments, demonstrating their depth and breadth of understanding of the subject, drawing on and supporting the development of these skills in other curriculum areas. By the end of the course, students will understand the influence of religion on individuals, communities and societies, and significant common and divergent views between and/or within religions and beliefs.  They will be able to accurately apply their knowledge and understanding to answer questions relating to the topics covered, drawing on their own lived experiences and understanding of the world around them, to construct well-informed and balanced arguments to analyse and evaluate these beliefs and teachings.

Curriculum implementation – teaching, learning and assessment strategies
The GCSE Religious Studies course is taught in Year 10 and Year 11 using the same format. Beliefs of the religion are taught first (Christian Beliefs in Year 10; Muslim Beliefs in Year 11), followed by the practices associated with each religion (Living the Christian/Muslim Life) to embed understanding of how and why beliefs are put into practice within the religious context. This enables students to have a clear understanding of what Christians and Muslims believe and how each religion is practiced today, before progressing onto the two ethics sections where students are able to understand the ethical implications of holding specific beliefs and values. As this subject is assessed completely by examination at the end of Year 11, students complete written assessments regularly throughout the course.  Formalised end-of-unit assessments are set, alongside regular practice of exam-style questions in timed conditions, as well as low stakes quizzes.  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 
This course includes two in-depth areas of study – Christianity and Islam – as lived religions within the UK and throughout the world, both comprising of four sections, two focusing on the religious beliefs and practices and two ethics based, focusing on teachings about life. In Year 10 (the study of Christianity), these teaching are relating to issues within and surrounding families, and with regard to matters of life and death.  In Year 11 (the study of Islam) these teachings are relating to the issues surrounding crime and punishment and peace and conflict.  Throughout the course there are opportunities to compare and contrast religious and non-religious beliefs and teachings, with two areas – beliefs about life after death and worship – specifically referenced. The GCSE Religious Studies course will not only help students understand theological concepts and religious doctrines, but will encourage students to understand the significance and importance of beliefs to individuals and communities, as well as the impact these beliefs have.  Additionally, students should recognise that there are multiple understandings and expressions of beliefs and teachings, both religious and secular. This course will also promote and provide 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.

Course overview for GCSE Religious Studies
Exam board: Edexcel - https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/religious-studies-b-2016.html
Coursework: N/A

Area of study 1: Religion and Ethics based on a study of Christianity (Paper 1)
Section 1: Christian Belief
Section 2: Marriage and the Family
Section 3: Living the Christian Life
Section 4: Matters of Life and Death

Area of study 2: Religion, Peace and Conflict based on a study of Islam (Paper 2)
Section 1: Muslim Beliefs
Section 2: Crime and Punishment
Section 3: Living the Muslim Life
Section 4: Peace and Conflict