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Western philosophy includes discussions on the arguments for and against the existence of God, religious experience, the nature of the mind and body and what implications this has for a possible life after death. In Ethics, you will compare and contrast different ethical theories and apply them to ethical dilemmas such as euthanasia, business and sex. You will also study the philosophy of ethical language and the role of the conscience in moral decision making. The Christianity pathway involves the study of the ways in which Christianity has responded to various challenges including scientific advances, secularism, religious pluralism and sex and gender issues.
What will I study in Philosophy & Religion (Christianity) A-level?
In year one, students explore the debate over the existence of God, studying arguments for his existence, such as the design and cosmological arguments as well as claims that God does not exist, such as new atheism and the problem of evil.
In year two, students look at miracles and religious experiences, asking what they are and whether they can provide sufficient evidence for the existence of God. They also explore the issues of religious language, asking whether it is possible to talk meaningfully about God.
Ethics
In year one, students study a range of ethical theories, such as utilitarianism, natural law and situation ethics, exploring how they solve ethical dilemmas including capital punishment, polyamorous relationships and animal experimentation.
In year two, students go deeper into the problems of ethics, asking what does it mean to say something is good or bad and should we be held morally accountable for our actions? Or do we have no free will in how we act?
A study of Christianity
In year one, students examine core beliefs in Christianity, asking who was the historical Jesus? What is the Bible and how authoritative is it for Christians? They also explore the major theological debates within the church over the Trinity, atonement and salvation.
In year two, students explore more how Christianity has changed over the past 100 years, and why Christians hold such different views on wealth, poverty, women, secularisation and the role of science in religion.
Entry Requirements
At least five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects. Examinations are essay based so a good standard of English is required. There is no expectation that you have studied full course RE GCSE.
How will I learn?
Students are expected to complete their pre-reading tasks, which will give them an overview of the topic being explored. Students' knowledge is developed in lessons with videos, further readings and class activities such as card sorts. Students' will then evaluate the topic through a range of discussions and debates. Whilst students are not expected to make lots of notes in lessons, they are expected to create summary materials, essay plans and written essays based on the content they have learnt.
Over the course of the year, students will become confident in reading philosophical texts, writing extended essays, giving presentations and debating with their peers.
How will I be assessed?
Paper 1: A study of Religion (Christianity)
2 hours. 33.3%
2 essays out of a choice of 5.
Paper 2: Philosophy of Religion
2 hours. 33.3%.
2 essays out of a choice of 5.
Paper 3: Religion and Ethics
2 hours. 33.3%.
2 essays out of a choice of 5.
Any trips?
Trips are an important way to bring to life the ideas discussed in the classroom. The best way to learn about the ideas of religious believers, is to listen to members of that religion. This can include visiting a Buddhist vihara to try some meditation, or discussing theological issues with local clergy. We also offer a range of opportunities to explore how philosophy, ethics and religion can be taken beyond A level, with talks from local universities and annual webinars from Chester University. We are keen to offer an optional overseas trip and may run a trip to Auschwitz, exploring key debates surrounding God, evil and the Holocaust.
Are there any costs involved?
There will be a small charge for course booklets to cover reprographic costs.
FAQs
The Christianity topic does assume some prior knowledge about Christianity, so if you have not taken GCSE Religious Studies, it would be worth doing some of the Christianity background reading in the Flying Start summer task to ensure you're up to speed for the A level. However, the Buddhism pathway assumes that the module is new to all students, and so no prior knowledge is needed.
We will need you to be on the correct pathway within the first few weeks of Yr1 though. If you're still unsure, a member of staff will be happy to chat to you about the different pathways at enrolment.
Awarding Body
WJEC EDUQAS
Available As
[56 UCAS pts. available]

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What can I do after I have taken this course?
Available As
[56 UCAS pts. available]

Add to Application
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