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St Colman's High & Sixth Form College, Ballynahinch

Religion

GCSE:

All pupils will study Religion at GCSE level. Pupils who study Religion will be given the opportunity to enhance their spiritual and moral development, along with their understanding of different cultures locally, nationally and in the wider world, so they may contribute to social and community cohesion. The aim of this subject is to develop pupil’s interest in and enthusiasm for the study of religion, and relate it to the wider world.

The course offers opportunities to build on the skills and capabilities developed through the delivery of the Key Stage 3 curriculum in Northern Ireland.

The course content:

  • Year Eleven: Christianity through the Study of the Gospel of Mark.
  • Year Twelve: An Introduction to Christian Ethics.

Assessment

Year Eleven: Pupils will sit an exam ‘Christianity through the Study of the Gospel of Mark,’ worth 50% of their GCSE grade. The exam will last one hour and thirty minutes.

Year Twelve: Pupils will sit the exam ‘An Introduction to Christian Ethics,’ worth 50% of their GCSE grade. The exam will last one hour and thirty minutes.

Post- 16

This subject helps to assist pupils to develop advanced study skills that help them prepare for third level education and the world of work. Studying Religion at A-level develops higher order thinking skills and draws together different areas of knowledge, skills, understanding, synthesis and evaluation via synoptic assessment.

Pupils are given the opportunity to reflect on and develop their own values, opinions and attitudes in the light of their learning. Through the study of Religion pupils can make a key contribution to society and gain a greater understanding of different world religions, key historical events and the role of religion in the modern day.

Assessment:

Pupils study two of units at AS level and a further two units at A2.

Pupils at AS will study:

  • AS 4: The Origins and Development of the Early Christian Church to AD 325.
  • AS 7: Foundations of Ethics with Special Reference to Issues in Medical Ethics.

Each paper is worth 50% of AS and 20% of A level.

  • A2 4: Themes in the Early Church and the Church Today.
  • A2 7: Global Ethics.

Each paper is worth 50% of A2 and 30% of A level.