Religious Studies AS and A Level

Please make sure you have checked the entry requirements before submitting your application. Please also be aware that we use an Attainment 8 requirement for students choosing to do Science and Maths subjects. This is explained further on our website: https://www.taptonschool.co.uk/page/?title=Subjects&pid=69

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Philosophy and Ethics (Religious Studies):

Philosophy and Ethics is an academic discipline which promotes an enquiring, critical and sympathetic approach to the study of ethical and philosophical issues from a religious and non religious point of view. The course is both challenging and demanding, enabling students to develop analytical, critical and interpretation skills at a high level. The emphasis is on developing individual reasoned argument rather than formulaic uniform response. The course leads to a qualification in Religious Studies but must not be confused with Religious Studies options involving a more detailed study of religious belief and practice. The course is appropriate for students of any religious persuasion or none.

Qualities Required

An open and enquiring mind and a willingness to examine issues in a rigorous and logical fashion.

Links with other subjects

A Level Religious Studies is an academic discipline which aims to promote an enquiring, critical and sympathetic approach to the study of religious, philosophical and ethical issues. It combines well with both arts and science A Levels and is highly regarded by universities and College Admissions Tutors. It is not considered to be a soft option; rather it features on the Russell Group Universities higher tier of preferred subjects at A Level. The only difference between Religious Studies and facilitator subjects is that it may be studied without prior knowledge while others may not.

This is essentially a Philosophy and Ethics course leading to a qualification in Religious Studies. The two year course is made up of three modules. The modules chosen build on knowledge gained at GCSE Level, both Full and Short courses, but is not dependent on previous experience. Subjects in bold are studied at A Level.

Philosophy of religion

• Ancient Greek influences on philosophy of religion, specifically looking at Plato and Aristotle.
• The nature of the soul mind and body.
• Arguments for the existence or non-existence of God.
• Issues in religious language
• The nature and impact of religious experience.
• The problem of evil and suffering and its challenge to belief.
• Ideas about the nature and attributes of God
• Issues in religious language

Religion and Ethics

• Normative ethical theories such as Kantian ethics, natural law and situation ethics.
• The application of ethical theory to euthanasia and business ethics.
• Ethical language and thought.
• Debates surrounding conscience and free will.
• Sexual ethics and the influence of ethical thought on developments in religious belief

Developments in religious thought

• Beliefs, teachings and ideas about human life, the world and ultimate reality: Augustine’s teaching on human nature; Death and the afterlife
• The origins and development of Christianity, and the sources of wisdom on which it is based: knowledge of God’s existence; the person of Jesus
• Christian moral principles; Christian moral action
• Gender and society; gender and theology
• The challenge of secularism; liberation theology

Extension and Enrichment Opportunities

Trips to conferences organised by examinations boards and Higher Education Providers are offered to students as and when they are available.

5 in English Language or a 5 in Religious Studies at GCSE if studied.

Tapton School's minimum entry requirements for all students: Grade 5 in English Language; Grade 4 in Mathematics and three other GCSEs at grade 4 and above.

A Level Religious Studies and in particular the Philosophy and Ethics options places emphasis on problem solving and a rigorous examination of evidence together with the development of sustained and well supported arguments. While it is a perfect choice for students hoping to pursue degrees in Philosophy, Theology or Religious Studies, it is also particularly useful for students considering careers in medicine, social work, personnel management, education, public relations, the police force, journalism and the legal professions.