Religious Studies
A Level |OCR
“I enjoy studying Philosophy & Ethics as it allows me to look at the world with a deeper understanding. It has given me a greater knowledge of religion and different ethical issues and how they may be applied in society today.” Rebecca, Year 12
Why study Religious Studies?
The Ancient Greek Philosopher Socrates once said that, "the unexamined life is not worth living." Religious studies comprises of three distinct disciplines; Philosophy of Religion, Religious Ethics and Developments in Christian Thoughts (DCT) 'Philosophy' literally means 'the love of wisdom'. Philosophy includes the study of traditional ideas about God and the world, providing students with the opportunity to unravel the Big Picture, to critically examine their own lives as well as the world in which they live. It explores such questions as these: What is the essence of a human being? What is the meaning of human life? Ethics is Moral Philosophy; it is the study of human behaviour and how we make decisions. In Developments in Christian thought, we get to apply these ideas to how Christianity has changed over the centuries.
Extra-curricular aspects of the course
Students taking this A Level can expect to participate in various conferences, debates and activity days, often with other schools, to explore certain aspects of the course in further detail.
Entry Requirements
A GCSE Grade 6 expected in GCSE Religious Education for students considering studying A Level Religious Studies.For those who have not studied Religious Education at GCSE level, a grade 6 in GCSE English is required.
Higher Education and Careers
As with any subject in the area of Humanities, students acquire a great range of skills, such as analysis, interpretation, critical thinking and the ability to produce extended evaluative pieces of writing. These are skills that will prepare students well for a range of higher education courses and, beyond that, in employment generally. An A Level in Religious Studies can naturally lead to further studies at university, including philosophy, ethics, theology, anthropology, history, classics, medicine, law, psychology, social work and education. Those who have studied Religious Studies have often progressed onto careers in advertising, the civil service, education, film and television, information technology, journalism, law, marketing, and Management.
Equipment required for the course
Pens, pencils, lined paper. A4 File - one for each of the three examined components.
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First year of study Developments in Christian Thought – consists of the study of human nature and purpose of life; the self and |
Assessment of pupil progress will be made during two Pre |
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A Level Examination at the end of the two year study |
3 x 2 hour examinations. |
“If you're interested in other people perspectives on the universe and
morality, with the opportunity to debate and express your thoughts, youshould choose this subject!” Curtis, Year 12
morality, with the opportunity to debate and express your thoughts, youshould choose this subject!” Curtis, Year 12