Religious Studies

Remember this, whoever sows generously will also reap generously.      Apostle Paul

Introduction

Religious Studies is a valuable subject which creates learning opportunities which allow our pupils to develop socially, emotionally, spiritually, and academically. Pupils engage in activities inside and outside of the classroom which enable them to grow in confidence, develop communication skills, increase in knowledge and understanding of the subject and encourage independent thought, whilst developing their thinking skills.

We currently teach all girls in Years 8 – 12 and many girls in Years 11 – 14 have chosen to study GCSE, AS and A Level Religious Studies courses. These are 100% exam and are challenging courses which help improve literacy skills and promote independent learning and skills of analysis: skills necessary for university and working life. Our courses are relevant to the modern context and allow our pupils to explore key issues relating to ethics, world religions and the impact of beliefs on the community. To enhance pupil learning during the year, pupils are given the opportunity to learn in a variety of ways; through research, group work, visiting speakers, visits to local churches, synagogues and attendance at inter-schools’ workshops and courses. All Religious Studies students are given the opportunity to develop literacy and communication skills, developing research and essay writing skills and lessons are tailored to meet individual pupil needs and cater to differing learning styles.





Key Stage 3

In the study of Religious Studies in Year 8 students begin their studies in RS by exploring the subject and investigates:

• The importance of the Bible to Christians
• Christmas festival and the relevance for today
• Creation
• Fair trade and Care for the Environment
• St. Patrick
• Discipleship and Jesus’ teaching
• The Church today

In Year 9 they further develop their understanding of the subject by exploring topics such as:

• Abraham
• Judaism
• Moses
• The Ten Commandments and the Torah
• Jesus’ relationships with others
• Heroes of Faith

Year 10 gives the girls an opportunity to learn about:

• Geographical and social background to the Gospels
• Jesus’ encounter with others; disciples, religious leaders, tax collectors, women and others
• Events of Easter and how it is celebrated today
• Miracles of Jesus
• Islam
• Prejudice and reconciliation
• The Early Church




Key Stage 4

Non -exam Year 11 and 12 have one period a fortnight to explore relevant issues and enjoy exploration of various topics through interactive lessons.

GCSE Religious Studies

Year 11 – Revelation of God: Unit 3
Year 12 – Christian Ethics: Unit 6

Examination details: 2 external exams –

50% in Year 11 and 50% in Year 12

To read the GCSE Revised Religious Studies Specification visit:
http://www.rewardinglesrning.org.uk/




Key Stage 5

GCE Religious Studies
For both AS level and A2 students complete two units from the following areas of study:

1. Textual Studies
2. Systematic Study of One Religion

Students who continue to A2 will explore in greater depth these same broad areas or units from different areas of study with an emphasis on critical evaluation and synoptic assessment.

AS Two externally assessed written papers, 1 hour 20 minutes each
A2 Two externally assessed written papers, 2 hours each

Year13 – AS Religious Studies

Unit 2 – A study of Acts of the Apostles
Unit 4 – Church History

Year 14 – A2 Religious Studies

Unit 2 – A study of St Paul’s letters to Galatians, Ephesians and 1 Corinthians.
Unit 4 – Church History

To read the GCE Revised Religious Studies Specification visit:
http://www.rewardinglesrning.org.uk/

Students will become equipped with many of the skills needed in further and higher education and the workplace. Students will develop critical evaluation skills and the ability to construct logical and convincing arguments.




Visits / Trips / Extra-curricular offerings

To enhance teaching and learning the RS department have organised school trips to Queen’s and Ulster University, Belfast Bible College, Rome, local churches and places of worship. We also value community links with local ministers and youth and charity workers and invite them into school as visiting speakers and also go out to visit them in their places of work.

Students are given opportunities to lead whole school assemblies throughout the year, eg Harvest, Christmas and Easter which helps to further develop their communication skills. Scripture Union is an extracurricular club available which allows our girls to explore faith for themselves.