A-Level Religious Studies
What Topics Will I Study?
Philosophy
- The Problem of Evil
- Arguments for the Existence of God (Design and Cosmological) Miracles
- Arguments for the Existence of God (Experience and ontological)
- What is ‘proof’? Life After Death
- Religious language and how it is criticised/defended
Religious Ethics
- Where does ‘morality’ come from?
- Ethical theories
- Ethical language
- A wide choice of issues, including abortion & politics, Euthanasia, suicide, embryo research, attitudes towards homosexuality
- The Moral Argument for the existence of God.
- What does ‘good’ mean?
Please click on the plus sign below for links to an exam and course overview.
What Grades do I Need at GCSE Level?
Apart from the minimum entry requirements for the Sixth Form you are expected to achieve at least a grade 5 in English Language and a grade 5 in RE or Philosophy if you have taken them at GCSE. No previous study of Religion or Philosophy is required, but an open and enquiring mind definitely is! We look for students who are effective communicators, ready to analyse and discuss issues, who we will encourage to form a variety of opinions and support them with research and balanced judgements.
What Other Subjects Should I Study?
Many Philosophy and Ethics students study a selection of subjects such as English, Sociology, History, Science and Art. Many of these subjects require skills such as essay writing, independent research, and interpretation of information, which are also important in Philosophy and Ethics.
What About Choices After A-Levels?
In the world of work employers look for someone with a lively mind, an appreciation of different viewpoints and an ability to come to clear balanced decisions. Careers in Law, teaching, journalism, policing, publishing, and working abroad are some of the options into which previous students of Philosophy and Ethics have progressed. It is a valuable qualification that leads on to a variety of courses, in Humanities, Arts and Sciences, as well as to specific courses in Religious Studies, Theology or related disciplines.
Further Information
If you would like further information on any aspect of Philosophy and Ethics, please contact Mrs R. Calvert (Head of Religious Studies): rcalvert@idsall.shropshire.sch.uk
Exam Board: AQA