If you have studied Religious Studies GCSE, there is some overlap with the A Level syllabus, particularly the consideration of contemporary moral issues at GCSE and the study of applied ethics at A Level. However the A Level course focuses on philosophical approaches, as opposed to different religions.
Throughout your course, you can arrange for additional teaching support on all aspects of the course, from checking answers and talking through topics, to help with revision and exam preparation.
A Level content
Paper 1: Philosophy of religion (Paper code: 9RS0/01)
- Philosophical issues and questions
- The nature and influence of religious experience
- Problems of evil and suffering
- Philosophical language
- Works of scholars
- Influences of developments in religious belief
Paper 2: Religion and ethics (Paper code: 9RS0/02)
- Significant concepts in issues or debates in religion and ethics
- A study of three ethical theories
- Application of ethical theories to issues of importance
- Ethical language
- Deontology, virtue ethics and the works of scholars
- Medical ethics: beginning and end of life issues
Paper 3: New Testament studies (Paper code: 9RS0/03)
- Social, historical and religious context of the New Testament
- Texts and interpretation of the Person of Jesus
- Interpreting the text and issues of relationship, purpose and authorship
- Ways of interpreting the scripture
- Texts and interpretation: the Kingdom of God, conflict, the death and resurrection of Jesus
- Scientific and historical-critical challenges, ethical living and the works of scholars
A Level assessment
Paper 1: Philosophy of religion (Paper code: 9RS0/01)
Written examination: 2 hours (33.3% of qualification)
- Two structured questions
- One two-part essay question on an excerpt, sourced from a published list of extracts
- One extended essay question
Paper 2: Religion and ethics (Paper code: 9RS0/02)
Written examination: 2 hours (33.3% of qualification)
- Two structured questions
- One two-part essay question on an excerpt, sourced from a published list of extracts
- One extended essay question
Paper 3: New Testament studies (Paper code: 9RS0/03)
Written examination: 2 hours (33.3% of qualification)
- Two structured questions
- One two-part essay question on an excerpt, sourced from a published list of extracts
- One extended essay question