Sixth Form Subject Guide 2019-2021 REDRAFTED Sixth Form Choices Guide | Page 35

A Level Religious Studies (OCR) HEAD OF DEPARTMENT: Mr S Gates ([email protected]) Entry Requirements None. Where next? Religious Studies is highly respected amongst University admissions tutors as it places thinking skills at the heart of study. The course leads directly to Philosophy, Theology & Religious Studies at University as well as to almost any course that requires logical thinking and cogent argument including Law, Business, Medicine and a wide range of Humanities degrees. Future careers are also considerably varied with opportunities presented in education, management, law, business, broadcasting, marketing, medicine and the Civil Service to name just a few. It is an excellent preparation for any career that requires the transferable skills of analysing information, precise evaluation and clear thinking. WHAT WILL I STUDY? There are three components to the course and it is intended that these will be taught by the three members of the department simultaneously, with each delivering the paper connected to their specialist interest. [1] Philosophy of Religion (H573/01) – candidates will study a variety of philosophical issues including ancient philosophical influences, issues of soul & body, life after death, religious experience, the existence & nature of God, challenges to belief, religious language and 20th century perspectives. [2] Religion & Ethics (H573/02) – candidates will study the principles & development of ethical theories, applied ethics including medical ethics, ethical language, freewill, conscience and developments in ethical thought. [3] Developments in Religious Thought (H573/06 Buddhism option) – candidates will study the philosophy and practices of Buddhism as a contrast to the western thought studied in the other two modules. Topics include the life & ideas of the Buddha, the noble truths & eightfold path, meditative practice, different schools of Buddhist thought and modern influences. In addition to the curriculum lessons all sixth form students have the opportunity to attend meetings of the philosophy society, presentations by visiting speakers and external conferences delivered by experts in this field. HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? Each of the three components in the course is assessed by a 2hr written linear examination, sat at the end of the two year course. Each paper is worth 33.3% and the marks from each paper form a combined total for the A level result.