Religious Studies
Mrs L Cartwright (Head of Department)
For up to date information on KS4 and 5 courses, please see the Options Booklets
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Key Stage 3
Year 7
Terms: 1/2 – Multi-culturalism
Understanding how, when and why people/communities migrated to Wales/UK.
Exploring the impact that migration has had on Wales/UK in relation to communities, faith, beliefs etc.
Our World
Exploring religious and scientific views of creation.
Exploring and understanding how and why people show concern and responsibility for the world in which we live.
Investigating ways in which to improve our local area.
Term 2 – World religions and humanist beliefs
An introduction to the beliefs and teachings of the world’s major religions.
An introduction to Humanism.
Term 3 – Journey through life
Understanding what is important and meaningful in our lives.
Exploring the experiences of people as they journey through life, and how these experiences are acknowledged e.g. through Rites of passage.
Year 8
Term 1 – Journeys and Places
Exploring the significance of places of pilgrimage for religious believers e.g. Varanasi and the River Ganges.
Understanding the impact of pilgrimage on the lives of believers and the environment around them.
Term 2 – Anti-Racism
Exploring why and how we should seek to eradicate racism in our community.
Identifying key figures who have played a vital role in promoting equality.
Term 3 – Celebrations
Exploring key religious festivals such as Christmas, Easter, Hannukah, Passover, Diwali and Eid.
Identifying similarities and differences between beliefs and practices associated with specific religious festivals.
Understanding the importance of festivals for religious believers, and the impact they have on their lives.
Year 9
Term 1 – GCSE Christianity: Core beliefs, teachings and practices
The nature of God
The Trinity
The birth, life, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus
The Teachings of JesusTerm 2 – GCSE Christianity / GCSE Hinduism: Core beliefs, teachings and practices
The role of the Church
The Persecution of Christians
Interfaith Dialogue
The Sacraments
The nature of Brahman and the atman
The Trimurti
Vaishnavite and Shaivaite traditions
The importance of GaneshaTerm 3 – GCSE Hinduism: Core beliefs, teachings and practices
Worship – Puja
Pilgrimage
Changing attitudes to the caste system
Ashramas (Stages in life) including birth, marriage and death ritualsWays in which parents can help:
- Check planners to ensure pupils have completed any homework.
- Assist pupils with their revision for tests and exams.
- Don’t reinforce any prejudices they may have about religion and encourage open minds.
Useful websites:
- Google “Hinduism”, “Judaism” or “Christianity” with specific topic.
- BBC Religion
- BBC Bitesize KS3 Religious Studies
- BBC Religion – Judaism
- WJEC Religious Studies
- GCSE Religious Studies – WJEC – BBC Bitesize
Useful books/magazines/publications:
- The Encyclopaedia of Religion
- Current newspapers/magazines
