Philosophy AS Level

Religious Studies AS/A Level
Humanities
Board and Syllabus details
Board: Edexcel - Syllabus: AS Level (8560), A Level (9560)
About the subject

Why do people believe what they believe? Religious Studies at AS and A level explores this and other fundamental questions such as "Does God exist? - Can we prove God exists?", "Why is there evil in the world?", "Is there life after death?", "What is a miracle?", "What did Jesus say?", "Why do religions have conflicting views?".
Religious Studies aims to encourage your interest and enthusiasm for the study of religion and religious belief, an increasingly important global and socio-political issue. The subject is essential for anyone who wishes to understand the complexity of human societies, and provides you with important critical and evaluative skills in analysing the reasons which lie behind statements of faith or unbelief.
You do not require previous knowledge or qualifications in RS, and are welcome whether you have a faith or not. Employers value RS, will recognising that you have demonstrated an interest in what motivates people, gained an understanding of the complex role of religion both for individuals and for societies, and developed an ability to evaluate ideas using a range of communication skills, both written and spoken.
The course follows three fields of study: Philosophy of Religion, (topics include the existence of God, the problem of evil, miracles, science and religion, life after death); New Testament, (a study of Luke's Gospel and aspects of Jesus' teaching); Coursework, (an essay from a wide-ranging choice of topics including world faiths and ethical issues).

Learning Styles

We recognise that you like to learn in different ways so lessons follow a variety of approaches to learning, aiming both to be enjoyable and to develop important skills. The ability to analyse critically, to describe and define ideas, to present information clearly and accurately, to understand and evaluate conflicting opinions, is important for many career choices. To promote these and other skills, learning in RS lessons involves discussions, note-taking, presentations, answering structured questions, writing essays, independent research, as well as input from video/DVD/ppt resources and occasional visiting speakers, plus attendance at student conferences.

Subject combinations and progression

A good preparation for employment or further study, RS provides an excellent subject to combine with other Humanities subjects, Social Sciences and Psychology, but is equally capable of being followed as a stand alone subject bringing breadth to your curriculum choice. It provides excellent preparation for further study at university in a variety of related disciplines, as well as developing useful key skills, knowledge and understanding. Students have gone on to a variety of careers; teaching, nursing, personal management, the Civil Service, youth and community work, to name but a few.

Subject modules and assessment
AS Level
Unit 1: Foundations 50% AS (25% A2)
Written exam of 2 hrs (June). Students answer three essay questions.
Content: Philosophy of Religion/New Testament (Luke)
Unit 2: Investigations 50% AS (25% A2)
Coursework essay of 2000 words marked internally, moderated externally (April).
A2 Level
Unit 3: Developments 25% A2
Written exam of 2 hrs in June (three essay questions)
Content: Philosophy of Religion/New Testament (Luke)
Unit 4: Implications 25% A2
Written exam of 1 hour 15 minutes (June) 1 essay from a choice of 9
Essay questions based on an Anthology of articles and extracts published by Edexcel.

Entry Requirements
C in English Language.