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.