A Level Religious Studies

Studying Religious Studies at A Level

Introduction by Subject Specialist of Religious Studies

Hear from the Students:

Exam Board:  OCR
Expected Entry Criteria:  Grade 6 in GCSE Religious Education

Why study this course?
This is the most challenging and interesting subject you can study at Gumley. It will make you think and allow you to really investigate some of the biggest issues in life! In our modern world with the threat of religious extremism, it is essential to have this A Level. Philosophy, Ethics and Theology will help you learn about issues that matter for our world
today. Whatever you study at university and in every job, you will need to know about these issues. This is an exciting and interesting subject, which goes perfectly with every other A Level. It goes particularly well with Maths, Psychology, Science, Languages, History, English, Sociology and Psychology. Universities will be pleased to see that you have taken this A Level because it shows both depth and breadth. It is a subject most connected with Philosophy.

What will I learn?
You will learn to debate and discuss things like: why is there evil? How should we live? Do belief about the Trinity or the Incarnation really matter these days? You will learn how to present your ideas and think as a scholar, summarising your ideas and make rational judgements.

How will I be taught?
In lessons you will have great debates and be introduced to some of the greatest thinkers, including Plato and Aristotle. You will be given great teaching and plenty of support from really experienced and well qualified teachers. 

How many hours a week private study will I have?
You will need to consolidate your learning through private study/homework for a minimum of five hours each week.

You’ll enjoy this course if…
You are open minded and able to cope with challenging ideas and arguments. 

Course Description
A special part of this A Level is that it will introduce you to three really important subjects all once. You will begin by learning about the Philosophy of Religion (issues such as ‘Is there really a God’); Ethics (issues such as ‘why not lie and cheat?’) and Theology (what is it that Christians are actually supposed to believe). It is like getting three for the
price of one!

Assessment
You will have three examinations at the end of the course:

Paper 1:  Philosophy of Religion
External written examination (33.3% of A Level)

Paper 2:  Religion and Ethics
External written examination (33.3% of A Level)

Paper 3:  Development in Religious Thought
External written examination (33.3% of A Level)

For more information, contact Ms S Victor and Dr S Whittle