GCSE Religious Education

Information Pack
2019
Page |
3
 Contents:

Exam summary …………………………………………………………………………………………….5

Page |
Paper 1 List of topics with quotes and key words …………………………………………6 4
Paper 1 Key Words ……………………………………………………………………………………..11
Paper 1 Exam practice questions ………………………………………………………………..17
Paper 2 List of topics with quotes and key words …………………………..…………..21
Paper 2 Key Words ……………………………………………………………………………..……...30
Paper 2 Exam practice questions …………………………………………………………….….34
Marking Criteria and Structures of exam questions …………………………………….42
Command words and phrases …………………………………………………..………………..44
Using religious teachings and quotes ………………………………………….…………..….45
Connectives and opening of sentences, etc ………………………………….……………..53
Important links and dates …………………………………………………………………………...55

You have studied TWO world religions – Christianity and Islam. By now, you
know both, the beliefs and practices of the two religions you have studied.
You have also studied FOUR themes: Relationships and Families, Religion and
Life, The Existence of God and Revelation, and Religion, Peace and Conflict.
You will have one exam paper for the religions: PAPER 1.
Paper 1 includes:
 Christianity – Beliefs = 24 marks
 Christianity – Practices = 24 marks Total 48 marks

 Buddhism – Beliefs = 24 marks

 Buddhism – Practices = 24 marks Total 48 marks
Total marks for Paper 1 = 96 marks (+SPaG) and you will have 1 hour 45
minutes to complete the Paper.
This exam will take place on the 13th of May 2019 in the afternoon (pm). Page |
5
You will also have one exam paper for the Themes studied: PAPER 2.
Paper 2 includes:
 Theme A: Relationship and Families = 24 marks
 Theme B: Religion and Life = 24 marks Total
 Theme C: The Existence of God and Revelation = 24 marks 96
 Theme D: Religion, Peace and Conflict = 24 marks
 Theme E: Religion, Crime and Punishment = 24 marks
 Theme F: Religion, Human Rights and Social Justice =24 marks
You will answer four full sets of questions, one set per each theme.
Total marks for Paper 2 = 96 marks (+SPaG) and you will have 1 hour 45
minutes to complete the Paper.
This exam will take place on the 20th of May 2019 in the morning (am).
The questions within each religion and Themes, have a common structure made
up of five part-questions of 1,2,4,5 and 12 marks.
You need to aim to score at least 14 marks per set if you want to reach the higher grades.
You will more likely achieve this if you score evenly across all the sets.
AQA GCSE Religious Studies Specification A (8062)

Page |

Paper 1 6

The study of religions:

Beliefs, Teachings and Practices

 Christianity

 Buddhism
Paper 1: Unit 1

UNIT 1 BELIEFS AND TEACHINGS CHRISTIANITY

PAPER 1

Topics
1. The Nature of God 6. Crucifixion Page |
2. Just, omnipotent God 7. Resurrection and ascension 7
3. The oneness of God and Trinity 8. Life after death and judgement Day
4. Creation 9. Heaven and hell
5. Incarnation of Jesus 10. Sin and salvation

Quotes
Christianity:

“I am the Lord, your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. You shall have no other gods before me.”
(Exodus 20:2-3)
“Nothing is impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37)
“God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
(John 3:16)
“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the
surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. And God said:’Lets there be light’ , and there was
light.” (Genesis 1:1-3)
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.
Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.” (John 1:1-3)
“This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before
they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 1:18)
“The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” (John 1:14)
“Again the highest priest asked Him, ‘Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?’ ‘I am’, said Jesus. (Mark 14:61b-62a)
“You may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and by believing you may have life in his name.” (John 21:31)
“When Jesus was baptised, a voice from heaven said:’You are my Son.’ (Mark 1:11)
“Jesus called out with a loud voice, ‘Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.’ When he had said this, he breathed his last.”
(Luke 23:46)
“Surely this man was the Son of God.” (Mark 15:39)
“When he had let them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. While he was blessing them, he
left them and was taken up to heaven.” (Luke 24:50-51)
“So will it be the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; it is sown in dishonour,
it is raised in glory;it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power,;it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is
a natural body, there is also a spiritual body.” (1 Corinthians 15: 42-44)
“He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead; I
believe in … The resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting.” (The Apostles’ Creed)
“I am the way, and the truth and the light. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)
“For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead also comes through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in
Christ all will be made alive.” (1 Corinthians 15:21)
”If anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father – Jesus Chirst, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for
our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.” (1John 2:1-2)

Key
concepts/ Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant, denomination, God, omnipotent, omniscient, omnibenevolent, omnipresent, justice, Trinity,
key words Holy Spirit, Son of God, creation, the Word, blasphemy, incarnation, resurrection, crucifixion, ascention, heaven, hell , Day of
Judgement, afterlife, purgatory, Satan, sin, Original Sin, salvation, grace, forgiveness, atonement, Mass,

Don’t forget about the ‘universal quote’ : “Love your neighbour as you love yourself” (Mark 12:37)
Paper 1: Unit 2

UNIT 2 PRACTICES CHRISTIANITY

PAPER 1

Topics
1. Worship 8. The role of the Church in a local community : Food Page |
2. Prayer Banks 8
3. Baptism 9. The role of the Church in the local community:
4. Holy Communion Street Pastors
5. Celebrating Holy Communion 10. The places of mission and evangelism
6. Pilgrimage Lourdes, Iona 11. Church growth
7. Celebrating Festivals: Christmas and Easter 12. The importance of the worldwide Church
13. Christian persecution
14. The Church’s response to the world poverty

Quotes
Christianity:

“Bless us o Lord, and these your gifts, which we are about to receive from your bounty, through Christ, our Lord.” (Catholic
Grace before meals)
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.”
(Matthew 28:19)
“The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he has given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘This is my
body which is for you,; do this in remembrance of me.’ In the same way, after supper, he took the cup, saying, ‘ This cup is the
new covenant in my blood, do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.’ For whenever you eat this bread and drink
this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.” (1 Corinthians 11:23-26)
“As I raised my head to look at the grotto , I saw a lady dressed in white, wearing a white dress, a blue girdle and a yellow rose
on each foot, the same colour as the chain of her rosary; the beads of the rosary were white.” (Bernadette describing her first
vision of the Virgin Mary)
“And God placed all thing under his [Jesus’] feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his
body.” (Ephesians 1:22-23)
“Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life.” (Traditional
Orthodox hymn at the Easter Divine Liturgy)
“Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” (James 2:17)
“For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been
reconciled, shall we be saved through his life.” (Romans 5:10)
“If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be
in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” (1John 3:17-18)
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21)
“If one part suffers, every part suffers with it. “ (1Corinthians 12:26)
“I want to know Christ – yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his suffering.” (Philippians 3:10)
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and
you invited me in, I eeded clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to
visit me.” (Matthew 25:35-36)
“Go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, and teaching
them to obey everything I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19-20)
“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for there is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when
people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because
great is your reward in heaven. “ (Matthew 5:10-12)

Key
concepts/ Worship, liturgical worship, non-liturgical worship, informal worship, private worship, prayer, set prayers, informal prayer,
key words vision, rosary beads, nonconformist, Lord’s Prayer, sacraments, baptism, protestant, believers’ baptism, infant baptism, Holy
Communion, Eucharist, Mass, the Divine Liturgy, pilgrimage, festival, Christmas, Easter, Church, The Trussell Trust, The
Oasis Project, The Alpha Course, agape, mission, The Great Commission, missionary, evangelism, discipleship, reconciliation,
persecution, Christian Aid, Tearfund, CAFOD,

Don’t forget to read the Lord’s Prayer. Research: Trussell Fund, The Alpha Course, The Oasis Project, Tearfund, CAFOD, Christian
Aid, Pilgrimage to Lourdes and Iona.
Paper 1: Unit 3 (to be updated)

Page |
9

Paper 1: Unit 4 (to be updated)

Paper 1 Key words:

Page |
10
Christianity:
Ascension – The event 40 days after the Resurrection, when Jesus returned to God, the Father, in heaven, recorded
in Luke 24 and Acts 1.

Atonement - Literally ‘at-one-ment’, it refers to the reconciliation between God and humanity that was sealed by
the sacrificial death of Jesus.

Baptism - The sacrament through which people become members of the Church. Baptism involves the use of water
as a symbol of the washing away of sin. It is a rite of initiation.

Believers' baptism - Initiation into the Church, by immersion in water, of people old enough to understand the
ceremony/rite and willing to live a Christian life. Some denominations prefer this to infant baptism. This form of
baptism contains many similarities to the baptism of Jesus.

Bible - Sacred book for Christians containing both the Old and New Testaments.

Catholic - The tradition within the Christian Church which is led by the Pope.

Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD) - A Christian charity that provides emergency and long-term
aid to the developing world.

Christ - The leader promised by God to the Jews. The word literally means 'Anointed One' in Greek; the Hebrew
equivalent is Messiah. Christians believe Jesus to be the Christ.

Christian - Someone who believes in Jesus Christ and follows the religion based on his teachings.

Christian Aid - A Christian charity that provides emergency and long-term aid to the developing world.

Christmas - The Feast Day commemorating the birth of Jesus (25 December in most Churches).

Church - The Holy People of God, also called the Body of Christ, among whom Christ is present and active. Members
of a particular Christian denomination/tradition. A building in which Christians worship.

Creation - Christians believe that the world is God’s loving creation.

Crucifixion - Roman method of execution by which criminals were fixed to a cross. The execution and death of Jesus
on Good Friday.

Easter - The religious season celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus from the dead. It starts on Easter Day and finishes
with the feast of Pentecost.

Eucharist - Literally 'thanksgiving'. Another name for Holy Communion and a service in which the sacrificial death
and resurrection of Jesus are celebrated, using bread and wine. Thanks are given to God for his creation of the
world, for the life, death and resurrection of Jesus and for the bread and wine which many Christians refer to as
Jesus' Body and Blood.

Evangelism - Preaching the gospel (the good news about God) to convert people to the Christian faith.

Evil - The opposite of good. A force that is seen in many traditions as destructive and against God.

The Father - The first Person of the Trinity, the creator and sustainer of the universe.

Food banks - This relates to Christian charities collecting donated food to distribute to the poor in Britain.
Grace - The unconditional and generous love that God shows to people who do not deserve it.

Heaven - The state after death of being with and enjoying eternity with God

Hell - The place of eternal suffering or the state after death of separation from God for those who want no
relationship with him.

Holy Communion - Another name for the Eucharist in which the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus are Page |
celebrated using bread and wine. 11

Holy Spirit - The third person of the Holy Trinity who descended like a dove on Jesus at his baptism. Christians
believe that the Holy Spirit is present and inspires them.

Incarnation - Literally 'in flesh', or 'enfleshed', the doctrine that God took the human form as Jesus.

Infant baptism - Initiation of babies and young children into the Church, where promises are taken on their behalf by
adults. The infant is freed from sin and introduced to the saving love of God and the support of the Christian
community.

Informal prayer - This takes the form of extempore prayer, consisting of spontaneous prayers spoken from the heart
as opposed to the use of set prayers.

Informal worship - Worship which has no set structure It is usually spontaneous and sometimes charismatic in
nature.

Iona - An island of the west coast of Scotland founded by Columba in the 4th century. It is used by Christians today
as a centre for pilgrimage and religious retreat.

Jesus - First century Jewish teacher and holy man, believed by Christians to be the Son of God.

Judgement - When God decides whether each person should receive eternal life or eternal punishment.

Just - This refers to the nature of God as one who treats each individual human being fairly and equally.

Liturgical worship - A church service which follows a set structure or ritual.

Law - This refers to the law of God, revealed in the Bible, which Christians are called to obey. St Paul made it clear,

however, that salvation is not earned by obedience to the law but is God’s free gift.

Lourdes - A town in France, where the Virgin Mary appeared to Bernadette in a series of visions, and now a place of

pilgrimage, where it is claimed that miraculous healings have taken place.

Lord's Prayer - The prayer taught to the disciples by Jesus; also known as the 'Our Father'.

Mission - Literally ‘sent out’. It refers to the duty of Christians to spread the gospel (the good news about Jesus).

Non-liturgical worship - A service which does not follow a set text or ritual. This type of worship is sometimes
spontaneous or charismatic in nature.

Omnipotent - The belief that God is ‘all powerful’. The Oneness of God The belief that God is ‘One’.

Original sin - The traditional belief that is still held by some Christians that human nature is basically flawed, and so
humans have a tendency to go against God’s will. Christians who think that the Bible is literally true believe that it
has been passed down from Adam and Eve.

Orthodox - The most popular Christian tradition in some parts of Eastern Europe. There are two main Orthodox
Churches –Greek and Russian.

Persecution - Throughout the centuries and still in some parts of the world, Christians face punishment and even
death for adherence to their faith.
Pilgrimage - A journey by a Christian to a holy site, eg Lourdes, Iona. Pilgrimage is itself an act of worship and
devotion.

Prayer - Communicating with God through words of praise, thanksgiving or confession, or requests for his help or
guidance. Listening to and speaking to God.

Private worship - A believer giving God praise and worship on his or her own.
Page |
Protestant - The Churches that 'protested' against and broke away from the Catholic Church during the Reformation. 12
Services are generally based more closely on the Bible than those of the Catholic and Orthodox Churches.

Reconciliation - The process of restoring harmony after relationships between people has broken down.

A sacrament in the Roman Catholic and some Anglican Churches.

Resurrection - The event celebrated on Easter Day of Jesus rising from the dead, an event recorded in all four
gospels and the central belief of Christianity. The form that many Christians believe the afterlife will take, referring
to either physical or spiritual bodies.

Sacrament - The outward and visible sign of an invisible and spiritual grace. Baptism and the Eucharist are
recognised as sacraments by most Christians.

Salvation - Saving the soul and deliverance from sin and admission to heaven brought about by Jesus.

Set prayers - These are prayers written throughout the centuries by Christian holy men and women, which many
Christians use. The Lord’s Prayer is an example of a set prayer.

Sin - Behaviour which is against God's laws and wishes/against principles of morality. A thought, word or action
which is wrong, which people know is wrong and which people freely choose.

The Son - The second Person of the Trinity. This is Jesus, in whom God became incarnate.

Son of God - A title used for Jesus, the second person in the Trinity; denotes the special relationship between Jesus
and God.

Sources of wisdom and authority - Christians believe that the Bible, religious leaders and statements of belief, e.g.
the Apostles' Creed, should be respected as conveying deep religious truths.

Street pastors - A Christian organisation consisting of people who work mainly at night on city streets, caring for
those who need help.

Suffering - When people have to face and live with unpleasant events or conditions.

Tearfund - A Christian charity that provides emergency and long-term aid to the developing world.

Trinity - The belief that there are three Persons in the One God. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit are separate, but are
also one being. Word St John’s Gospel 1 describes God creating the world through his Word and links this to Jesus in
the statement: ‘The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us’.

Worship - Offering to God the praise that he is due. This may be done in public or in private worship.
BUDDHISM:

Page |
13
AQA GCSE Religious Studies Specification A (8062)
Paper 1 Exam Practice Questions
Christianity: Beliefs and Teachings and Practices
1 mark questions:

1. Which of the following words means that God is all-powerful?

a) Just b) omnipotent c) immanent d) benevolent
2. Which of the following is Jesus’ return to heaven to be with God the Father?
a) resurrection b) Last Supper c) ascension d) crucifixion
3. What is meant by incarnation?
a) Fully divine b) Being born c) Returning to earth d) Embodiment
4. Which one of the following is the idea that God became human in Jesus?
a) Atonement b) Incarnation c) Resurrection d) Creation
5. Which of the Gospels refers to the ‘role of the word’ in creation?
a) John b) Luke c) Mark d) Matthew
6. Which one of the following is a type of worship that follows a set pattern?
a) Informal worship b) private worship c) non-liturgical worship d) liturgical worship
7. Which one of the following is the festival that celebrates the incarnation of Jesus?
a) Easter b) Good Friday c) Christmas d) Lent
8. What does the term ‘eucharist’ refer to?
a) Thanksgiving b) Praise c) Last meal d) Bread and wine ceremony

2marks questions:

9. Give two reasons Jesus had to die.

10. Give two ideas about heaven for Christians.
11. Give two reasons Jesus’ death is important for Christians.
12. Give two ways that Christians believe salvation can come about.
13. Give two Christian beliefs about life after death.
14. Give two examples of different types of evil.
15. Give two ways that Christians celebrate Easter.
16. Give two meanings of the word ‘church’.
17. Give two examples of how the Church has helped to work towards reconciliation.
18. Name two types of prayers.
19. Give two ways in which Christians support those in countries where it is forbidden to follow Jesus.

4 marks questions:

20. Explain two ways in which a belief in Jesus’ crucifixion influences Christians today.
21. Explain two ways in which the belief in creation by God influences Christians today.
22. Explain two contrasting Christian views on the Eucharist.
23. Explain two ways in which the resurrection of Jesus influences Christians today.
24. Explain two ways in which the belief in hell does not fit with the belief in a loving God.
25. Explain two contrasting Christian views about the creation story.
 26. Explain two ways in which the belief in the Trinity influences Christians today.
27. Explain two contrasting examples of Christian pilgrimage.
28. Explain two similar ways that Christian Aid and Tearfund help the poor.
29. Explain two similar beliefs found in the idea of Christian evangelism.
30. Explain two contrasting beliefs about whether baptism is necessary or not.
31. Explain two ways in which Holy Communion has an impact on the lives of believers. Page |
5 marks questions: 14

32. Explain two Christian beliefs about Jesus’ incarnation. Refer to sacred writing in your answer.
33. Explain two reasons why evangelism is important to Christians. Refer to sacred writing in your answer.
34. Explain two Christian beliefs about Judgement. Refer to sacred writings or another source of Christian belief
and teachings in your answer.
35. Explain two Christian teachings about the means of Salvation. Refer to sacred writings or another source of
Christian belief and teachings in your answer.
36. Explain two ways that Christians may work for reconciliation. Refer to sacred writings or another source of
Christian belief and teachings in your answer.
37. Explain two ways that Christian charities help the poor in less economically developed counties. Refer to
sacred writings or another source of Christian belief and teachings in your answer.
38. Explain two ways in which pilgrimage is important for Christians today. Refer to sacred writings or another
source of Christian belief and teachings in your answer.
39. Explain two ways that food banks demonstrate ‘faith in action’. Refer to sacred writings or another source of
Christian belief and teachings in your answer.
40. Explain two ways in which the Eucharist is important to Christians. Refer to sacred writings or another source
of Christian belief and teachings in your answer.
41. Explain two Christian teachings about God. Refer to sacred writings or another source of Christian belief and
teachings in your answer.
42. Explain two Christian teachings about Trinity. Refer to sacred writings or another source of Christian belief
and teachings in your answer.
43. Explain two Christian teachings about atonement. Refer to sacred writings or another source of
Christian belief and teachings in your answer.
12 marks questions:

For each of the questions below the instructions are as follow:

Evaluate this statement. In your answer you should:

• refer to Christian teaching

• give reasoned arguments in support of this statement

• give reasoned arguments to support a different point of view

• should reach a justified conclusion.

44. ‘Pilgrimage is the best way for a Christian to develop their relationship with God.’
45. ‘God cannot be all-loving because evil and suffering exist.’
46. ‘Creation was so long ago it doesn’t matter what actually happened.’
47. ‘The stories of the incarnation prove that Jesus was the Son of God,’
48. ‘As nobody is perfect, it is impossible not to sin.’
49. ‘The crucifixion is the most important belief for Christians.’
50. ‘The sacraments are just excuses for celebrations.’
51. ‘Worship should always be liturgical.’
52. ‘The churches should focus on the worship of God rather than helping the community.’
53. ‘A Christian’s most important duty is to tell others about their faith.’
54. ‘Reconciliation to God is more important than reconciliation to other people.’
55. ‘Christians should just rely on evangelists for Church growth.’
56. ‘There is no difference between a pilgrimage and a holiday.’
57. ‘Christmas is no longer a religious festival.’ Page |
15
AQA GCSE Religious Studies Specification A (8062)
Paper 1 Exam Practice Questions
Buddhism: Beliefs and Teachings and Practices

AQA GCSE Religious Studies Specification A (8062)

 Paper 2 Page |
16

Thematic Studies:

1.Theme A – Relationships and Families

2.Theme B – Religion and Life

3.Theme C – The Existence of God and Revelation

4.Theme D – Religion, Peace and Conflict

Contrasting topics for each Theme (use for 4-mark questions)

Theme A Theme B Theme C Theme D

Visions
Contraception Abortion Violence
Weapons of Mass
Sex before marriage Euthanasia Miracles
Destruction (WDM)
Homosexual Nature of General
Animal experimentation Pacifism
relationships revelation

Paper 2: Theme A
THEME A: RELATIONSHIPS AND FAMILIES
PAPER 2

Topics
1. Teachings about human sexuality 6. Divorce and remarriage
2. Sexual relationships before and outside of marriage 7. Nature of families and the role of parents
3. Contraception and family planning 8. Purpose of families
4. Marriage 9. Gender equality Page |
5. Cohabitation
17
Quotes
Islam:
‘He gives daughters to whom he will and sons to whom he pleases.’ (Surah 42:49)‘
‘May his nose be rubbed in dust who found his parents approaching old age and lost his right to enter paradise because he did
not look after them’. (Hadith)
‘The Lord has decreed that you be kind to your parents. (Surah 17.23)
‘No one can be their mother except those who gave birth to them’ (Surah 58:2)
‘”And do not go anywhere near adultery: it is an outrage, and an evil path” (Surah17:32)
“A man should not stay with a woman in seclusion unless he is a relative.” (Hadith)
“All people are equal… as the teeth of a comb.” (Hadith)
“Honour your children and perfect their manners.” (Hadith)
“People, We created you all from a single man and a single woman, and made you into races and tribes so that you should
recognise one another.” (Surah 49:13)
“When any of you intend to divorce women, do so at the time when their prescribed waiting period can properly start… if you
are in doubt, the period of waiting shall be three months.”(Surah 65:184)
“Divorced women shall also have maintenance as is considered fair: this is a duty for those who are mindful of God.” (Surah
2:241)
‘Women have the same rights in relation to their husbands as are expected in all decency from them; while men stand a step
above them.’ (Surah 2:28)
“Marry those who are single among you for (God) will develop their moral traits (through marriage) “ (Hadith)
“There is no institution in Islam more beloved and dearer (to God) than marriage.” (Hadith)

Christianity:
‘So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female’ (Genesis 1:26)
‘Honour your father and your mother.’ (Exodus 20:12)
“Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her. And if she divorces her husband and
marries another man, she commits adultery.” (Matthew 10:11-12)
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
(Galatians 3:28)
“Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.” (Proverbs 23:22)
“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24)
“Husbands love your wives, just as Christ loved the Church and gave himself up for her.” (Ephesians 5:25)
“Children are the heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him.” (psalm 127)
“Children obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become
discouraged.” (Colossians 3:20-21)
“However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.” (Ephesians
5:33)
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has
already committed adultery with her in his heart.” (Matthew 5:27-28)
“So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” (Matthew 19:6)
“A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her
husband.” (1Corithians 7:10-11)
“The husband should fulfil his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband” (1 Corinthians 7:3)
“You shall not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14)
“The sexual act must take place exclusively within marriage. Outside of marriage it always constitutes a grave sin.” (Catechism
2390)

Key
concepts/ Contraception, family planning, human sexuality, adultery, celibacy, age of consent, chastity, commitment, contract,
key words heterosexuality, homosexuality, responsibility, sex before marriage, sex outside of marriage, civil marriage, civil partnership,
same-sex marriage, cohabitation, religious marriage, nature of family, purpose of family, nuclear family, stepfamily, extended
family, polygamy, bigamy, same-sex parents, procreation, stability, protection of children, annulment, divorce, remarriage,
second marriage, sexual stereotyping, gender equality, gender prejudice, gender discrimination,
Paper 2: Theme B

THEME B: RELIGION AND LIFE

PAPER 2

1. The origin of the universe: Creation, The Big Bang 6. Origins of human life: Natural selection, evolution Page |
Theory 7. Sanctity, quality and value of life 18
Topics 2. The value of the world: Stewardship, Dominion, 8. Abortion: Pro-life, pro-choice
Khalifahs, 9. Euthanasia: the right to die
3. The use and abuse of the environment: The Assisi 10. Death and afterlife
and Ohito meetings
4. Pollution
5. The use and abuse of animals: experiments, food,
value of animals

Christianity:
“You shall not murder.’ Ten Commandments, (Exodus 20;13)
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and
wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139:13-14)
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.” (Jeremiah 1:5)
“Don’t you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit? If anyone destroys this temple, God will destroy him.”
(Corinthians 3, 16-17)
'The earth is Lord’s and everything in it.' (Psalm 24:1)
“Every human act of irresponsibility towards creatures is an abomination (disgrace).” Assisi Declaration on Nature
“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God.” (Luke 12:6)
Animals are part of creation and deserve respect and protection. (Assisi Declaration)
Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground. ” (Genesis1:28)
“Everything that lives and moves about will be food for you.” (Genesis 9:3)
“The righteous care for the needs of their animals.” (Proverbs 12:10)
“The one who eats everything (meat) must not treat with contempt the one who does not, and the one who does not eat
everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted them.” (Romans 14:3)
“Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over
Quotes every living creature that moves on the ground.” (Genesis 1:28)

Buddhism:

Key Universe, Big Bang, creation, natural selection, evolution, adaptation, responsibility, stewardship, khalifah, environment,
concepts/ dominion, awe, renewable energy, wonder, pollution, natural resources, sustainable development, abuse, recycling, non-
key words renewable resources, deforestation, vegan, vegetarian, sanctity of life, quality of life, value of life, abortion, ensoulment, pro-
life, pro-choice, euthanasia, active euthanasia, passive euthanasia, heaven, hell, Jannah, Jahannam, barzakh, akhirah, the
Day of Judgement, eternity

Paper 2: Theme C

THEME C: EXISTENCE OF GOD AND REVELATION

PAPER 2

Topics
1. The Design Argument 6. Special Revelation: Visions, Enlightenment
2. The Causation Argument: First Cause, Thomas 7. General Revelation: Nature, People, Scriptures
Aquinas 8. The value of Revelation
3. The argument from Miracles 9. Nature of the Divine (God): immanence,
4. Argument against the existence of God: evil and transcendence, personal and impersonal God
suffering
5. Science as a challenge to belief in God

Quotes
Islam:
 “For men and women who engage much in Allah’s praise, for them has Allah prepared forgiveness and great reward.” (Surah
33.35)
“We built the skies with Our power and made them vast…” (Surah 51:47)
“Travel throughout the earth and see how He brings life into being. God has power over all things.” (Surah 29:20)
“The work of Satan… cannot harm (believers) in the least, unless God permits it . Let the believers put their trust in God.”
(Surah 58:10)
“He is God the One, God the eternal. He begot no one nor was He begotten. No one is comparable to Him.” (Surah 112) Page |
“This is the scripture in which there is no doubt, containing guidance for those who are mindful of God.” (Surah 2:2)
19
“The most excellent names belong to God. Use them to call on Him, and keep away from those who abuse them – they will be
requited for what they do.” (Surah 7:180)

Christianity:

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1)
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now, the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the
surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. And God said, ‘Let there be light’, and there was
light.” (Genesis 1:1-3)
“When there is a prophet amongst you, I , the Lord, reveal myself to them in visions, I speak to them in dreams.” (Numbers
12:6)
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the works of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night
after night they reveal knowledge.” (Psalm 19:1-2)
“Why do you ask me about what is good?’ Jesus replied. ‘There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, keep the
commandments.’ “ (Matthew 19:17)
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal
life.” (John 3:16)

Key
concepts/ Design argument, theist, atheist, agnostic, First Cause argument (Causation argument), eternal, creation, miracle, proof, faith,
key words evil, suffering, vision, ultimate reality, the divine, revelation, special and general revelation, enlightenment, nature, scripture,
omnipotent, omniscient, benevolent, immanent, transcendent, personal and impersonal nature of God, illusion,

Don’t forget about the ‘universal quote’ : “Love your neighbour as you love yourself” (Mark 12:37)

Paper 2: Theme D

THEME D: RELIGION, PEACE AND CONFLICT

PAPER 2

Topics
1. Peace, Justice, Forgiveness and Reconciliation 6. The Just War
2. Violent protest 7. Holy War and religion as a cause of violence
3. Terrorism 8. Pacifism and peacemaking
4. Reasons for War 9. Religious responses to victims of war
5. Nuclear War and weapons of mass destruction
Quotes Christianity:

“He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many people… Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor
will they train for war anymore.” (Isaiah 2:4)
“Do not repay anyone evil for evil… if it is possible , as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans12:17-
19)
“For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.” (1 Timothy 6:10)
“But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.” (Matthew Page |
5:39)
20
“You shall not murder.” (Exodus 20:13)
“If there is a serious injury, you are to take eye for an eye, tooth for tooth.” (Exodus 21:23-24)
“Put your sword back in its place, Jesus said, for all who draw the sword die by the sword.” (Matthew 26:52)
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)
“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago. ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders swill be subject to
judgement..’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgement.” (Matthew 5:21-22)

Key
concepts/ War, peace, justice, forgiveness, reconciliation, protest, violence, terrorism, greed, self-defence, retaliation, nuclear weapons,
key words weapons of mass destruction, chemical weapons, biological weapons, just war, holy war, pacifism, peacemaker,
peacemaking, lesser jihad, pacifist, conscientious objectors,

Don’t forget about the ‘universal quote’ : “Love your neighbour as you love yourself” (Mark 12:37)

A brief overlook of Paper 2 Themes

Christianity Topic / Issue Buddhism
Many Christians think that contraception Theme A
is acceptable in many circumstances, Contraception
such as a couple unable to cope
financially with having a child. They see
this as a responsible use of the God-given
autonomy that is part and parcel of being
created in the image of God.
Roman Catholic teaching states that
artificial contraception goes against
natural law. Every sexual act should be
open to the possibility of creating life.
This fulfils God’s command to be fruitful
and multiply.

Pope Francis teaches that marriage is for Theme A:

sexual relationships, but he has also Sexual
stated that this is a matter for conscience relationships
rather than strict rules and recognised before marriage
that financial and cultural issue might
underlie cohabitation as opposed to
marriage. In ‘The Joy of Love’ he said: ‘In
such cases, respect also can be shown for
those signs of love which in some way
reflect God’s own love’.
Many Christians think that sex before
marriage devalues the God-given gift of
sexuality. It was intended by God to be
enjoyed within marriage. In the NT Paul
Page |
said that those whose sexual urges were
21
very strong should marry.
Some Christians believe that the biblical Theme A:
denunciation of these relationships was Homosexual
part of the ancient culture and was Relationships
concerned with the promiscuous
excesses of fertility religions.
Monogamous homosexual relationships
reflect the same self-giving love that is
encouraged by situationists and live up to
the same ideals of fidelity and
commitment that are a part of Christian
marriage vows.
Fundamentalist Christians believe that
the biblical texts denouncing homosexual
relationships are the word of God and so
are valid for all time. They regard it as a
form of fornication and Paul said that
fornicators would not inherit the
kingdom of God.
Christianity Theme /Topic Buddhism
Theme B:
In the Old Testament life is associated Abortion
with breath, so before birth the
embryo/foetus is a potential person. The
embryo/foetus does not therefore have a
right to life.
Psalm 139 speaks of God seeing ‘my
unformed body’, so from conception, the
embryo is precious to God. Abortion is
the wrongful destruction of a human
being with potential.
Theme B:
The Bible tells Christians to clothe Euthanasia
themselves with kindness and
compassion, and ending a life of
intolerable suffering may be the most
compassionate thing to do. Scripture
states that death is better than a
miserable life.
Hospices enable terminally ill people to
experience dignity and quality of life right
to the end. They give the dying the sense
that their lives are still sacred, whereas
euthanasia denies that. Whatever their
situation, all humans are created in the
image of God.
Theme B:
The Catechism of the Catholic Church Animal
accepts this ‘within reasonable limits’ andExperimentation
providing there is no cruelty. Humans
Page |
alone are created in the image of God
22
and possess sanctity of life.
The book of Proverbs teaches that a good
man is kind to his animals. Some
Christians believe that to inflict any
suffering or discomfort on animals that is
not in the animals’ interests is not an act
of kindness. It is exploiting animals’
defencelessness for human benefit.
Christianity Theme / Topic Buddhism
Theme C:
The transformation in people’s lives Visions
shows that religious visions are
genuine. For instance, Paul’s vision on
the road to Damascus transformed
him from a persecutor of Christians to
a Christian evangelist who died for his
faith.
Because they are so personal, it
cannot be proved that visions are
genuine. It may be that some visions
have a medical explanation, eg
symptoms of migraine.

Theme C:
The very thorough medical and Miracles Allah alone can perform miracles. The
Church investigations into the claims greatest miracle is the Qur’an. This
of cures at Lourdes are strong contains Allah’s complete self-
evidence for the genuineness of those revelation.
declared to be miracles. They are
signs of the love of God.
Miracles are a psychological
phenomenon, showing the power of
mind over matter. People are
sometimes cured because of their
absolute conviction that they will be.
Jesus said to many of those whom he
cured, ‘Your faith has cured you’.
 Theme C:
The Old Testament says that the Nature as
heavens declare the glory of God. His general
presence can be detected in the revelation
wonder of the world that he created.
It shows his omnipotence. Page |
God reveals himself solely through the 23
Bible, which is the infallible word of
God. Nature was corrupted by the
Fall, so it does not provide a reliable
guide to the nature of God.

Christianity Theme / Topic Buddhism

Theme D:
Violence may be justified as a last resort. Violence Islam is a religion of peace. A Muslim’s
It may be the only way to get rid of a greeting is ‘Peace be upon you’ and so
corrupt regime and restore justice. In violence is to be rejected unless there is
protest at the misuse of the Temple, good cause for it. ‘Hate your enemy
Jesus overturned the merchants’ tables mildly; for he may become your friend
Jesus taught that violence is counter- one day’ (Hadith).
productive. Violence encourages Violence is accepted in defence of
retaliation and so makes the situation oneself, one’s community or Islam. In
worse. At his arrest he said to his such cases war is a duty so violence is
disciples, ‘Put away your swords. Those inevitable The Qur’an teaches: ‘To those
who live by the sword die by the sword.’ against whom war is made, permission is
given to fight’.

Theme D:
The possession of nuclear weapons is Weapons of Mass The amount and extent of destruction
justified on the grounds of deterrence Destruction caused by these weapons contravene the
and protection. Governments have a duty rules of lesser jihad so their use is
to keep their citizens safe. Protection of impermissible. They kill innocent civilians
the vulnerable is a key biblical teaching and harm the environment. Grand
The potential for indiscriminate killing Ayatolla Javadi Amoli: ‘Scholars believe
and injury to thousands of innocent that possession and development of
people, eg at Hiroshima, can never be atomic weapons and WMDs are not
justified on any grounds. These weapons permitted’.
create terrible long-term misery and their Example: Pakistan is a Muslim country
use does not show ‘love of neighbour’. and possesses nuclear weapons. It sees
these as a deterrent against India. It is
prepared to use them in self-defence. It
would then be justified as lesser jihad.

Theme D:
Martin Luther King taught that hatred Pacifism Lesser jihad is a duty for Muslims. It is
could only be driven out by the force of wrong to allow the practice of Islam to be
love. He achieved civil rights for black suppressed or injustice to prevail. The
Americans without ever responding to Qur’an instructs Muslims to fight in the
violence with violence. This refusal to use
 force fulfilled Jesus’ command to turn the cause of Allah and of those who are ill-
other cheek. treated and oppressed.
‘Blessed are the peacemakers’ does not Some Muslims are pacifist. Islam is based
always prohibit some use of force and a on the principles of peace. The Qur’an
war that follows the rules of the Just War teaches that reconciliation and peace are
theory may result in lasting peace a better way of fighting than war.
Page |
Bonhoeffer accepted that sometimes ‘Paradise is for those who curb their
24
regimes are so evil that only the use of anger and forgive their fellow men’
violence will overthrow them and restore (Qur’an).
justice.

Paper 2 Key Words:

Theme A: Relationships and Families:
Adultery - A sexual relationship between a couple not married to each other, but married to/in relationship with
others (affair).

Age of consent - According to the law, the age at which a person is considered old enough to give consent to have
sex.

Annulment - Cancellation of a marriage in Roman Catholic tradition, as if marriage never was.

Civil marriage - Non-religious marriage.

Civil partnership - Legal union of two people of same gender; now of equality with heterosexual marriage in all
respects.

Commitment - Making a promise or pledge, in this case, in marriage.

Celibacy - Not having sexual relations.

Chastity - Sexual purity, eg not having sex before marriage.

Cohabitation - Where a couple live together without being married/in civil partnership.

Contraception - Precautions taken to prevent pregnancy and to protect against contracting/transmitting STIs
(sexually transmitted infections).

Contract - A binding agreement between two sides.

Covenant - An agreement based on promises between two sides, here in marriage where the agreement is made
before God (as a witness) and with God (as a partner).

Divorce - Legal ending of a marriage.

Extended family - Family unit comprising mother, father and children, but also grandparents, cousins etc.

Family planning - Planning when to have a family and how big a family to have by use of birth control practices
and/or contraception.

Gender discrimination - Acting on prejudices against someone because of their gender.

Gender equality - Belief that both genders have equal status and value, so discrimination against either is wrong.

Gender prejudice - The belief that one gender is ‘better’ than the other.
Heterosexuality - Being physically/sexually attracted to persons of the opposite gender.

Homosexuality - Being physically/sexually attracted to persons of the same gender.

Nuclear family - Family unit made up of mother, father and their child(ren).
Polygamy - The practice of one man having several wives; legal under Shariah law (up to four wives, given specific
Page |
circumstances).
25
Procreation - Having a child; seen as a duty in many religions.

Remarriage - Marriage for the second time, after divorce ending an earlier marriage.
Responsibility - Duties; what a person has to do as part of the agreement they have made, or role they have taken on.

Single parent family - Family unit in which child(ren) and one parent, either mum or dad, live together.

Vows - Promises made by bride and groom during marriage ceremony.

Theme B: Religion and life

Abortion - Deliberate ending of a pregnancy, intended to prevent new life.

Afterlife - Beliefs about what happens to ‘us’ after our body has died.

Animal rights - Belief that animals should be treated with respect, so have rights to adequate
food/water/shelter/rest/freedom.

Awe - Sense of wonderment, often linked to the feeling that God is involved/revealed.

Big Bang Theory - Scientific theory about the origins of the universe – that the universe was created in a huge
explosion.

Charles Darwin - The man who proposed the theory of evolution (19th century).

Creation - Belief that God created the world/universe from nothing, eg Genesis creation story.

Conception - Point at which sperm fertilises an egg to begin pregnancy.

Conservation - The practice of repairing/protecting the natural environment and/or animal species.

Dominion - Belief that humans have been given control/charge of the world.

Environment - The world around us, can be natural or artificial.

Euthanasia - Mercy killing; ending the life of a person who is terminally ill or has degenerative illness. Can be
voluntary (person seeks this), or non-voluntary (person is on life support so family makes decision). Can be active
(what is done kills directly), or passive (medical support removed to allow natural death).

Evolution - Scientific theory of the development of species, which comprises natural selection and survival of the
fittest.

Fossil fuels - Coal, oil, gas – fuels that developed over millions of years beneath the earth’s surface.

Hospice - Place of medical care for the dying, but which also gives emotional support to the dying and their families.

Natural resources - Resources which are found in nature – fossil fuels, plants etc.

Pesticide - Chemicals used to kill pests, especially on farmed crops.

Pro-life - Stance of being anti-abortion and/or anti-euthanasia; many pressure groups exist with this view, e.g. SPUC.

Pro-choice - Stance of being for a woman’s right to decide what happens to her own body, which extends to the
right to have an abortion.
Quality of life - How good or comfortable a person’s life is.

Right to die - Belief that a human has the right to end their life, or seek it to be ended if they want that.

Sanctity of life - Belief that life is sacred/special, because it was created by God, or because we are each unique
individuals.

Science - Knowledge that comes from observed regularity in nature and experimentation. Page |
26
Stewardship - Duty given by God to mankind to look after the created world, and all life within it.

Sustainable energy - Resources that are renewable and will not run out, eg solar, wind, etc.

Theme C: The existence of God and revelation

Agnostic - Belief that there is insufficient evidence to say whether God exists or not.

All-compassionate - Characteristic of God; all-loving, omnibenevolent.

All-merciful - Characteristic of God; always forgiving and never vindictive.

Atheism - Belief that there is no God.

Benevolent - Characteristic of God; all-loving.

Conscience - Sense of right and wrong; seen as the voice of God within our mind by many religious believers.

Design argument - Also known as teleological argument. An argument purporting to prove God’s existence by
focusing on evidence of design in the world, which therefore proves the existence of a designer – God. One version
put forward by William Paley in the 18th century.

First cause argument - An argument purporting to prove God’s existence by logical argument that everything is
caused by something else. This requires an uncaused cause, which must be God. One version put forward by Thomas
Aquinas in 13th century.

General revelation - Indirect revelation; the idea of being able to see something of God through nature, for example.

Humanism - Belief system which excludes God, but focuses on the morally good behaviour of human beings.

Illusion - That something is not real, but a trick of the mind.

Immanent - Characteristic of God; at work in the world, involved in the creation, eg miracles.

Impersonal - Characteristic of God; beyond human understanding.

Miracle - An event that contradicts the laws of nature, so should be impossible, eg recovering from a terminal illness;
usually attributed to God.

Omniscient - Characteristic of God; all-knowing.

Omnipotent - Characteristic of God; all-powerful.

Personal - Characteristic of God; relatable, humans can build close relationships with this God.

Polytheist - Belief that there are many gods/deities.

Reality - What is real, actual or provable by science.

Revelation - When God reveals Himself; can be special or general.

Science - The collection of knowledge from observation and testing.

Transcendent - Characteristic of God; beyond space and time, controlled by neither.

Vision - Seeing something which is not physically real.

Page |
27

Theme D: Religion, peace and conflict

Anti-war - Attitude that (a) war is wrong and should be protested/worked against.

Civil war - Armed conflict between factions within the same country.

Conflict - Dispute between sides, can be between individuals, groups or nations.

Conventional warfare - War fought using ‘ordinary’ weapons, ie those covered/sanctioned by the Geneva
Conventions.

Forgiveness - Letting go of blame against a person for wrongs they have done; moving on.

Genocide - The killing of groups of/many people from a specific ethnic group, having targeted them for their
ethnicity.

Guerrilla warfare - Form of warfare in which a small group fights in a non-regular manner against a Government and
its forces.

Holy War - War sanctioned by God, used in Islam and Judaism; rules for such a war.

Humanitarian organisation - For example, Red Cross/Crescent; organisation which works to alleviate the suffering of
those made victims by war (or natural disaster).

Justice - Bringing fairness back to a situation.

Just War - Set of rules for fighting a war in a way acceptable to God, used in Christianity and Sikhism.

Nuclear weapons/war - A weapon of mass destruction; war fought using such a weapon (none so far in world
history).

Pacifism - Belief that all violence is wrong, which then affects all behaviours.

Peace - The opposite of war; harmony between all in society.

Protest - Making known one’s disagreement over something.

Reconciliation - Making up between two groups/sides after disagreement.

Retaliation - To pay someone back for their actions that have caused harm.

Terrorism - Use of violence and threats to intimidate others, usually Government; used for political purposes to build
fear in the ordinary population and so secure demands from Government.

War - Armed conflict between two or more sides.

Weapons of mass destruction - Weapons which are uncontrollable and cause indiscriminate damage, eg nuclear,
chemical, biological.

Page |
28

AQA GCSE Religious Studies Specification A (8062)

Paper 2 Exam Practice Questions
Theme A: Relationships and Families
1mark questions:
1. Which of the following describes when an unmarried couple live together?
a) Sex outside of marriage b) Cohabitation c) Heterosexuality d) Promiscuity
2. Which of the following is not a reason why some marriages fail?
a) Domestic violence b) Adultery c) Addiction d) Stability
3. What is means preventing pregnancy?
a) Conception b) Cohabitation c) Contraception d) Conscience
4. Which one of the following means to be ‘sexually pure’?
a) Celibacy b) Chastity c) Adultery d) Contraception
5. Which one of the following is a term for being married to more than one person?
a) Procreation b) Adultery c) Arranged marriage d) Polygamy
6. Which one of the following is the phrase for the traditional view of men and women’s roles?
a) Gender discrimination b) Same and equal c) Separate but equal d) Gender stereotypes
7. Which one of the following describes a nuclear family?
a) A couple, children and grandparent b) A couple and their children
c) A couple, children, aunts and uncles d) A couple without children

2marks questions:

8. Give two reasons people divorce.

9. Give two religious beliefs about homosexuality.
10. Give two religious reasons for having children.
11. Give two religious reasons about the significance of procreation.
12. Give two religious beliefs about women’s roles.
13. Give two religious beliefs about the use of contraception.
14. Give two religious attitudes about divorce.
15. Give two religious beliefs about cohabitation.
16. Give two religious beliefs about gender equality.
17. Name two types of family.
18. Give two religious beliefs about, the nature of the family.

4 marks questions: In your answers you should refer to the main religious tradition of Great Britain and one or
more other religious traditions.
 19. Explain two contrasting religious beliefs about contraception in contemporary British society.
20. Explain two contrasting beliefs in British society today about promiscuity.
21. Explain two contrasting religious beliefs about human sexuality.
22. Explain two contrasting religious beliefs about homosexual relationships.
23. Explain two contrasting religious beliefs about family planning.
24. Explain two contrasting beliefs in British society today about the nuclear family model. Page |
25. Explain two contrasting religious beliefs about divorce. 29
26. Explain two contrasting beliefs in contemporary British society about sex before marriage.
27. Explain two similar religious beliefs about the purpose of families.
28. Explain two similar religious beliefs about women in work.
29. Explain two contrasting religious views about remarriage.
30. Explain two similar religious beliefs about sex before marriage.

5 marks questions:

Refer to sacred writings or another source of religious belief and teaching in your answer.

31. Explain two religious beliefs about the nature of marriage.

32. Explain two religious beliefs about the purpose of families.
33. Explain two religious beliefs about the role of children in a religious family.
34. Explain two religious beliefs about same-sex marriage.
35. Explain two religious beliefs about divorce.
36. Explain two religious beliefs about children’s responsibilities towards their parents.
37. Explain two religious beliefs about non-traditional families.
38. Explain two religious beliefs about remarriage.
39. Explain two religious beliefs about homosexual relationships.
40. Explain two religious beliefs about the roles of men and women in society today.
41. Explain two religious beliefs about the role of parents in a religious relationship.
42. Explain two religious beliefs about adultery.
43. Explain two religious beliefs about gender equality.

12 marks questions:

For each of the questions below the instructions are as follow:

Evaluate this statement. In your answer you should:

• refer to Christian teaching

• give reasoned arguments in support of this statement

• give reasoned arguments to support a different point of view

• should reach a justified conclusion.

44. ‘Religious believers should never be sexist.’

45. ‘Ceremonies for remarriage should not be allowed in places of worship.’
46. ‘Marriage ceremonies are out of date nowadays.’
47. ‘A vow should never be broken so divorces should not be allowed.’
48. ‘Women as well as men should be able to be leaders in their religion.’
49. ‘Marriage is a lifelong union between a man and a woman.’
50. ‘The love and care parents show in bringing up their children is all that matters; the sex of the parents is
unimportant.’
51. ‘Marriage is the proper place to enjoy a sexual relationship.’
52. ‘It is wrong for religious couples to use artificial contraception within marriage.’
 53. ‘Families should do more for their elderly relatives in Britain today.’
54. ‘Divorce is never right.’
55. ‘Children should grow up in a loving, secure family whatever the gender of their parents.’
56. ‘Religious authorities should not preach about family planning.’
57. Marriage gives more stability to society than cohabitation.’
58. ‘Sex has been devalued in British society.’ Page |
59. ‘Gender prejudice cannot be ended.’ 30
60. ‘There should not be an age of consent for sex.’
61. ‘Muslims are right to disapprove of same-sex parenting.’
62. ‘Christian mothers should stay at home and care for children.’
63. ‘Educating children in a faith is just brainwashing them.’
64. ‘There is too much sexual freedom in contemporary British society.’

AQA GCSE Religious Studies Specification A (8062)

Paper 2 Exam Practice Questions
Theme B: Religion and Life
1mark questions:

1. Which of the following is not an effect of global warming?

a) Conservation b) Deforestation c) Pollution d) Climate Change
2. Which of the following terms means ‘to protect an environmental area’?
a) Conservation b) Sustainable development c) Stewardship d) Recycling
3. Which of the following is the theory that humans evolved from apes?
a) The Big Bang b) Reincarnation c) Ensoulment d) Evolution
4. Which one of the following is the idea that believers must look after God’s creation?
a) Veganism b) Dominion c) Stewardship d) Pikuach nefesh
5. Which of the following words means ‘to terminate a pregnancy’?
a) Abortion b) Euthanasia c) Conception d) Purgatory
6. Which one of the following is the approach of making decisions by looking at each individual case?
a) Utilitarianism b) Situation Ethics c) Humanism d) Compassion
7. Which one of the following gives the meaning of the term euthanasia?
a) A type of abortion b) A method of animal testing c) A good or gentle death d) A view on creation
8. Which one of the following gives the meaning of the rem ‘sanctity of life’??
a) Life never ends b) Life is sacred c) Life is of high quality d) Life has an end

2marks questions:

9. Give two legal criteria that would allow abortion in the UK.
10. Give two beliefs about heaven.
11. Give two examples of what religious people could do to protect the environment.
12. Give two religious beliefs about dominion.
13. Give two religious beliefs about eating meat.
14. Give two religious beliefs about how people might experience God’s presence through the natural world.
15. Give two effects of pollution.
16. Give two reasons a person may be vegetarian.
17. Give two reasons for animal experimentation.
18. Give two reasons people might use to disagree with euthanasia.
19. Give two reasons why Muslim encourage scientific discovery.
4 marks questions: In your answers you should refer to the main religious tradition of Great Britain and one or
more other religious traditions.

20. Explain two contrasting religious beliefs about abortion in contemporary British society.
21. Explain two contrasting religious beliefs about euthanasia.
22. Explain two contrasting religious beliefs about eating meat.
23. Explain two contrasting religious beliefs about animal experimentation in Britain today. Page |
24. Explain two contrasting religious beliefs about heaven. 31
25. Explain two contrasting beliefs about the origin of the universe.
26. Explain two different religious beliefs about how the human race began.
27. Explain two contrasting beliefs about the use of natural resources.
28. Explain two similar religious beliefs about the sanctity of life.
29. Explain two similar religious beliefs about animal experimentation.
30. Explain two similar religious beliefs about what happens after death.

5 marks questions:

Refer to sacred writings or another source of religious belief and teaching in your answer.

31. Explain two religious beliefs about the sanctity of life.

32. Explain two religious beliefs about caring for the world.
33. Explain two religious beliefs about the Genesis creation story.
34. Explain two religious beliefs about stewardship.
35. Explain two religious beliefs about abortion.
36. Explain two religious beliefs about evolution.
37. Explain two religious beliefs about how the world was created.
38. Explain two religious beliefs about what happens when a person dies.
39. Explain two religious beliefs about the duty of human beings to protect the earth.
40. Explain two religious beliefs about the origins of the universe.
41. Explain two religious beliefs about euthanasia.
42. Explain two religious beliefs about animal experimentation.
43. Explain two religious beliefs about life after death.

12 marks questions:

For each of the questions below the instructions are as follow:

Evaluate this statement. In your answer you should:

• refer to Christian teaching

• give reasoned arguments in support of this statement

• give reasoned arguments to support a different point of view

• should reach a justified conclusion.

44. ‘Pollution can never be stopped.’

45. ‘Everyone should be vegetarian.’
46. ‘Religion proves that God created the world.’
47. ‘The law on abortion should be changed.’
48. ‘Euthanasia can be the most compassionate way to help someone who is terminally ill.’
49. ‘Humans should use the earth’s resources however they wish.’
50. ‘The fear of eternal punishment is the only thing that makes religious people value human life.’
51. ‘Active euthanasia should never be allowed.’
52. ‘If the quality of life is not going to be good, abortion is the best option.’
 53. ‘The story of Adam and Eve (Hawwa) is more important than whether or not life evolved on earth.’
54. ‘Experimentation on animals is wrong because it is cruel.’
55. ‘Religious believers are not doing enough to help the environment.’
56. ‘The right to die should always take priority over the sanctity of life.’
57. ‘Religion is about ideas not truths.’
58. ‘Both science and religion are valuable in our world today.’ Page |
59. ‘Pollution is a fact of life; it cannot be stopped.’ 32
60. ‘We must ban the use of fossil fuels now.’
61. ‘Humans are misusing their power over animals.’
62. ‘Eating meat is disrespectful to God’s creation.’
63. ‘Religious believers should always fight for life to be preserved.’
64. ‘The only acceptable reason to have an abortion is when woman’s life is at risk.’
65. ‘Everyone should have the right to die if that is what they want.’

AQA GCSE Religious Studies Specification A (8062)

Paper 2 Exam Practice Questions
Theme C: The Existence of God and Revelation
1mark questions:

1. Which of the following describes a person who believes in God?

a) Atheist b) Agnostic c) Theist d) Humanist
2. Which one of the following is not an attribute of God?
a) Compassionate b) Moral c) Transcendent d) Eternal
3. What is meant by ‘personal’ in relation to the Divine?
a) Beyond b) Able to have a close relationship with God c) Absolute d) All-knowing
4. What is meant by immanent?
a) Absolute b) All-powerful c) Beyond time and space d) Active in the world
5. Which of the following is not a type of revelation?
a) Vision b) God c) Miracle d) Scripture
6. Which one of the following is the theory developed by Darwin?
a) Genesis b) Big Bang theory c) Theory of evolution d) Design Argument
7. Which one of the following means all-powerful?
a) Omnipotent b) Omniscient c) Infinite d) Transcendent
8. Which of the following believe it is impossible to know for certain if God exists or not?
a) Atheists b) Humanists c) Theologians d) Transcendent

2marks questions:

9. Give two aspects of the First Cause Argument.

10. Give two religious beliefs about special revelation.
11. Give two examples of how God’s compassion might be shown through revelation.
12. Give two examples of people who have had visions.
13. Give two weaknesses of the First Cause Argument.
14. Give two alternative explanations to the claim that a person has met God.
15. Give two reasons why scripture helps people to understand God.
16. Give two reasons why some people believe the Design Argument is weak.
17. Give two possible causes of suffering.
4 marks questions: In your answers you should refer to the main religious tradition of Great Britain and one or
more other religious traditions.

18. Explain two contrasting beliefs about miracles.

19. Explain two contrasting beliefs in contemporary British society about the Design Argument for the existence
of God.
20. Explain two contrasting beliefs about the revelation of God in nature. Page |
21. Explain two contrasting religious beliefs about proving the existence of God. 33
22. Explain two contrasting religious beliefs about evolution.
23. Explain two contrasting beliefs in British society today about visions.
24. Explain two similar beliefs about general revelation.
25. Explain two similar religious beliefs about ideas about the divine.
26. Explain two similar religious beliefs about the scriptures as revelations.
27. Explain two similar religious beliefs about God’s characteristics.

5 marks questions:

In your answer you should refer to the main religious tradition of Great Britain and non-religious beliefs or to at
least one religious tradition. Sometimes, the command phrase will ask you to refer to scripture or sacred writings
in your answer.

28. Explain two religious beliefs about visions.

29. Explain two religious beliefs about how creation proves the existence of God.
30. Explain two religious beliefs about miracles in the scriptures.
31. Explain two religious beliefs about how God can allow evil and suffering.
32. Explain two religious beliefs about enlightenment as a source of knowledge about the divine.
33. Explain two religious beliefs about general revelation.
34. Explain two religious beliefs about God being immanent.
35. Explain two religious beliefs about special revelation.
36. Explain two religious ideas about God.

12 marks questions:

For each of the questions below the instructions are as follow:

Evaluate this statement. In your answer you should:

• refer to Christian teaching

• give reasoned arguments in support of this statement

• give reasoned arguments to support a different point of view

• should reach a justified conclusion.

37. ‘It is impossible to know what God is like.’

38. ‘The existence of evil proves that God does not exist.’
39. ‘Miracles prove God exists.’
40. ‘God doesn’t exist.’
41. ‘Those who see visions are only hallucinating.’
42. ‘It is not possible to fully express God’s nature in words.’
43. ‘Revelation proves that God exists.’
44. ‘The First Cause Argument proves that God exists.’
45. ‘The Design Argument proves that God exists.’
 46. ‘Humans could never understand God.’
47. ‘It does not matter if people have different ideas about God.’
48. ‘It is impossible to believe in both, science and religion.’
49. ‘We should always believe it when someone says God spoke to them.’
50. ‘Religious believers should make it a priority to gain enlightenment.’
51. ‘God is an illusion.’ Page |
52. ‘As revelation is based on belief, it will always be subject to doubt.’ 34
53. ‘There are too many different ideas of God for revelations to be true.’
54. ‘God cannot be omniscient if people have free will.’
55. ‘The First Cause Argument is a stronger argument for the existence of God than the Design Argument.’
56. ‘Natural disasters prove that the world is not designed.’
57. ‘Miracles make God appear unfair.’
58. ‘It is easier to think about God as personal rather than impersonal.’
59. ‘If the universe has a beginning, it must have a creator who began it.’

AQA GCSE Religious Studies Specification A (8062)

Paper 2 Exam Practice Questions
Theme D: Religion, Peace and Conflict
1mark questions:

1. Which of the following best expresses the religious ideal of bringing about what is right and fair?
a) Peace b) Forgiveness c) Justice d) Defence
2. Which one of the following are not weapons of mass destruction?
a) Chemical weapons b) Nuclear weapons c) Biological weapons d) Conventional weapons
3. What does WMD mean?
a) Weapons of mass devastation b) Weapons of major destruction
c) Weapons of death d) Weapons of mass destruction
4. Which of the following is not a reason for war?
a) Greed b) Terrorism c) Self-defence d) Forgiveness
5. Which of the following is the act of deliberately causing suffering and fear through violence?
a) Passive resistance b) Pacifism c) Holy war d) Terrorism
6. Which one of the following is the idea that everyone should get what they deserve?
a) Justice b) Peace-making c) Reconciliation d) Forgiveness
7. Which one of the following is starting a war in revenge for something?
a) Tribalism b) Retaliation c) Self-defence d) Honour

2marks questions:

8. Name two reasons for a country to keep nuclear weapons.

9. Give two religious beliefs about terrorism.
10. Give two reasons for forgiveness.
11. Give two effects of conflict.
12. Give two conditions of a just war according to some religious believers.
13. Give two religious beliefs about violent protest.
14. Give two reasons why many religious people do not support violent protest.
15. Give two reasons why some religious people believe it is right to fight a war.
16. Give two features of holy wars.
17. Name two examples of peace-making in contemporary Britain.
18. Give two ways in which religious believers help victims of war.
4 marks questions: In your answers you should refer to the main religious tradition of Great Britain and one or
more other religious traditions.

19. Explain two contrasting religious beliefs in contemporary British society about whether countries should
possess weapons of mass destruction.
20. Explain two contrasting beliefs in contemporary British society about pacifism.
21. Explain two similar religious beliefs about forgiveness. Page |
22. Explain two contrasting religious beliefs about violence in contemporary British society. 35
23. Explain two similar religious beliefs about peace.
24. Explain two similar religious beliefs about justice.
25. Explain two contrasting religious beliefs about pacifism.
26. Explain two contrasting beliefs about war in contemporary British society.
27. Explain two similar religious beliefs about helping victims of war.
28. Explain two contrasting beliefs about just war.

5 marks questions:

Refer to sacred writings or another source of religious belief and teaching in your answer.

29. Explain two reasons why religious believers should help victims of war.
30. Explain two reasons why some religious people believe it is right to fight in a war.
31. Explain two religious beliefs about reconciliation.
32. Explain two religious beliefs about the importance of peace.
33. Explain two religious beliefs about just war.
34. Explain two religious beliefs about holy war.
35. Explain two religious beliefs about how peace can be achieved.
36. Explain two religious beliefs about terrorism.
37. Explain two religious beliefs about peace.
38. Explain two religious beliefs about fighting a war.

12 marks questions:

For each of the questions below the instructions are as follow:

Evaluate this statement. In your answer you should:

• refer to Muslim teaching

• give reasoned arguments in support of this statement

• give reasoned arguments to support a different point of view

• should reach a justified conclusion.

39. ‘All religious believers should be pacifists.’

40. ‘War can never bring peace.’
41. ‘Greed is the greatest cause of war.’
42. ‘It is justified for a country to possess nuclear weapons.’
43. ‘Pacifism and non-violence are always the best option.’
44. ‘The just war theory is the best religious response to whether it is right to fight.’
45. ‘Religion is the main cause of wars.’
46. ‘Religious people should be the main peacemakers in the world today.’
47. ‘The point of war is to kill the enemy, not help them to survive.’
 48. ‘Retaliation is the justifiable reason for war.’
49. ‘Religion does not cause war.’
50. ‘Religion cannot end a war.’
51. ‘Religion does not keep the peace.’
52. ‘There cannot be such thing as a just war, because the innocent always suffer.’
53. ‘Peace is an impossible dream.’ Page |
54. ‘Greed is never a good reason for war for religious people.’ 36
55. ‘Terrorism is never right.’
56. ‘It is always wrong for religious believers to protest violently.’
57. ‘Religious people should always forgive those who do wrong to them.’
58. ‘The best way to bring about world peace is for more individuals to become pacifists.’
59. ‘It is acceptable to do anything to win a war if it ultimately leads to a better outcome.’
60. ‘Everybody, regardless of their beliefs, should be expected to fight in a war.’

AQA GCSE Religious Studies Specification A (8062)

Marking Criteria
and
Structures of the GCSE answers
 Page |
37

This is how examiners mark:

Mark Wording examiners follow What that means to you
1 Award a mark for a correct answer Right answer gets one mark
2 Award a mark for each correct answer Two correct points made get the 2
marks; each point one mark.
4 First belief/way/etc For the first way, influence or
Simple explanation of a relevant and accurate point – 1mark similar/contrasting belief 1 mark is
Detailed explanation of a relevant and accurate point– 2 marks given for a simple explanation, 2
marks are given for detailed
explanation.
Second belief/way/etc Second set of two marks is given for
Simple explanation of a relevant and accurate point – 1mark doing the same thing for a new point.
Detailed explanation of a relevant and accurate point– 2 marks
5 First teaching/belief/way/etc For the first reason/teaching/belief
Simple explanation of a relevant and accurate point – 1mark 1mark is given for a simple
Detailed explanation of a relevant and accurate point– 2 marks explanation, 2 marks are given for a
detailed explanation.
Second teaching/belief/way/etc Second set of two marks is given for
Simple explanation of a relevant and accurate point – 1mark doing the same thing for a new point.
Detailed explanation of a relevant and accurate point– 2 marks
Relevant and accurate reference to scripture and/or sacred writing You get a mark for a relevant teaching,
quote, Make sure it is clearly relevant.
12 10 – 12 marks You give several arguments from
A well-argued response, reasoned consideration of different at least two points of view. These
points of view. Logical chains of reasoning leading to are mostly /all explained and
judgement(s) supported by knowledge and understanding of expanded in a clear/effective way.
relevant evidence and information. References to religion Your points are clearly relevant to
applied to the issue. the statement.
Religious argument is strongly
present in your answer.
You argue logically and coherently.
 7 – 9 marks You give several arguments from
Reasoned consideration of different points of view. at least two points of view. You
Logical chains of reasoning that draw on knowledge and explain/expand some of these.
understanding of relevant evidence and information. Most of them will be relevant to
Claer reference to religion. the statement and your points are
clear. You make clear reference to
religion. You evaluate the Page |
statement, not just write about the 38
attitudes about the topic of the
statement.
4 – 6 marks If you write only about one point
Reasoned consideration of a point of view. of view, you cannot achieve a
A logical chain of reasoning drawing on knowledge and higher level than this one.
understanding of relevant evidence and information. It might be one-sided. If it is, it will
OR Recognition of different points of view, each supported by have several explained and
relevant reasons/evidence. expanded arguments OR, you give
Maximum of Level 2 if there is no reference to religion. a series of arguments for more
than one point of view with limited
explanation of any argument.
1 – 3 marks You haven’t explained very much
Point of view with reason(s) stated in support. at all, you have listed a few
reasons to support what you think.

Command words and phrases used in the exam – so you know what to do.

Wording Explanation Marks

Give two … You just list two things – could be words or 2
phrases.
Explain two ways in which … influences You must give and explain two ways, but you 4
______ today must show the impact on behaviour/thinking of
people in that religion today.
Explain two contrasting _____ in You must give and explain two 4
contemporary British society beliefs/teachings/practices but they must be
contrasting or different.
In the Themes (paper 2) you must answer from a
Christian perspective for one view.
Explain two similar … You must give and explain two 4
beliefs/teaching/practices.
Explain two contrasting …. You must give and explain two 4
beliefs/teaching/practices. They need to be
different/contrasting (e.g. two denominations in
within Christianity or two religions).
Explain two (religion) teachings about … You must give and explain two religious 5
teachings. Using a quote or a version of it will
gain you the fifth mark. It is easier to get the
marks by using clear, specific teachings.
Explain two contrasting ways in which … You must give and explain two ways in which 5
something is done. Use of quote/teaching will
gain you the fifth mark.
Explain two religious beliefs about …. You must give and explain two beliefs (attitudes 5
really). Use of quote/teaching will gain you the
fifth mark.
Refer to (religion) teaching You must include clear and repeated reference to 12
the teachings of the specified religion in order to
reach high levels. In our case it is Islam or/and
Page |
Christianity.
39
Give developed reasons to support this You must support the statement and explain the 12
statement reasons you give.
Give developed reasons to support a You must provide a different point of view and 12
different point of view explain the reasons you give for it.
Should refer to religious arguments You must use religious arguments in your answer 12
– it cannot be entirely non-religious. If you give
only non-religious arguments it will limit you to
fewer than half the available marks.
May refer to non-religious arguments You could – but don’t have to – use non-religious 12
arguments.
Reach a justified conclusion You should provide a concluding paragraph which 12
comes from what you have said but it is not just a
repeat of it. Keep some reasons back to explain in
your conclusion as your own view.

Using Religious teachings and quotes

How well you learn and use religious teachings and quotes will determine the
grade you achieve. The wider the range of teachings you can refer to, the
better your answer will be and the higher marks you will get. It is well worth
the effort in your revision to learn teachings.
On the Religious beliefs and Practices and on the Themes paper the 5- and 12-
mark questions specifically instruct you to ‘refer to religious teachings in your
answer’. This means that 17/24 marks are reliant on you using teachings to
explain your answers. Over the whole Paper 1 it makes it 68/101 marks and
Paper 2 it also makes 68/101 marks!
4-mark questions on both Papers will also be easier to answer if you have
teachings you can refer to.
Good advice form an examiner: Learn 3 teachings from two religions (in our
case Islam and Christianity) for each theme in Paper 2 .
So, e.g. Paper 2 Themes: 4 themes = 12 quotes each from the two religions
studied.
They don’t have to be absolutely exact, as long as your examiner can tell which
quote, teaching you are referring to, that will be enough.
If you haven’t learnt any quotes yet, don’t panic! Learn 6 quotes per week for
the moth leading up to your exam or start now with one or two per week and Page |
give yourself a break later! 40

The quotes are listed under each topic in this guide. You have more quotes
listed than needed so, you can choose which ones you can memorise the best.

Structures of the GCSE answers:

1-mark Question :

It is a multiple choice.
Answer by choosing the right word.

Example:
1. Which one of the following best expresses the religious view that one
purpose of marriage is to have children?
A Procreation.
B Contraception.
C Stability.
D Polygamy.
2-mark Question:

Answer by writing two words or phrases.

Page |
‘Give’ means that you don’t need to explain anything or write in full sentences. 41

4-mark Question:
To answer these questions, you need some key building blocks.

Know the key term know the relevant beliefs know a generalreligious
1

3
and teachings which migt attitude to the
and what it means. be applied to this. term/issue.

Answer by writing TWO paragraphs.

In each you need ONE way/reason/belief explained.
Use Point and Explanation in each paragraph.
Remember: often it is asking about CONTRASTING ways/beliefs/reasons.
If it asks for DIFFERENT ways/beliefs/reasons/views – it does not need to be contrasting.
Sometimes it may ask you to ‘Refer to the main religious tradition of Great Britain and one or more other
religious traditions.’ The main religious tradition is Christianity, so in your answer you MUST refer to
Christianity. You can refer to two different denominations within religion, or you can compare a Christian
belief with that from another religion (we have studied Islam).
For Theme C – The Existence of God and Revelation (Paper 2), the wording will often say: ‘In your answer
you should refer to the main religious tradition of Great Britain and non-religious beliefs.’ You must refer
to Christianity and a non-religious (secular) belief. You are expected to show secular attitude – what a
humanist or an atheist might say as your contrasting belief.
‘Main religious tradition in contemporary British society’ = CHRISTIANITY

How to answer 4-mark question in Paper 1:

 Most/Some Christians/ Catholics/
Point: Protestants/Muslims believe/ say/ think….
reason/way/belief/view One way / belief is….

Paragraph 1 This shows/This suggests……………………….

In the _______________ it says ………………… Page |
Explanation For example………………………….
42

Most/Some Muslims/Christians believe/ think/

Point: say/….
Paragraph 2 reason/way/belief/view Another/Second way/ belief is ……

This shows/This suggests……………………….

Explanation In the _______________ it says …………………
For example…………………………

You may need to use ‘However’ before you start the second paragraph if the question is asking about
contrasting views.
Or you can answer Paper 1: 4-mark question this way:

Explain one way One way in which a belief in ………………….. influences

Muslims/Christians today is that they …………………….

Paragraph 1 Explanation
(develop your explanation This shows/This suggests……………………….
with more detail/an In the _______________ it says …………………
example/reference to a For example………………………….
religious teaching or
quotation)

Explain a second way A second way in which a belief in …………………..

Paragraph 2 influences Muslims/Christians today is that they
…………………….

Explanation
(develop your explanation This shows/This suggests……………………….
with more detail/an In the _______________ it says …………………
example/reference to a For example…………………………
religious teaching or
quotation)

How to answer 4-mark question in Paper 2: Themes

 (name the issue e.g. abortion) is …………..
Definition of term
In _______________(The Bible, The Qur’an etc) it says
Potential beliefs and …………..
Paragraph 1 teachings relevant to this
Page |
This means that Christians/Muslims agree/disagree 43
General attitude with ________ because……
For example…

However/Moreover (depends if the Q asks you for

Second point (similar or contrasting or similar views)
Paragraph 2 contrasting – depending on Christians/Muslims/others may say/disagree/agree
the question) general with _______ because……………………..
attitude

To support this view in ________ (The Bible/The

Potential beliefs and Qur’an, etc) it says ………
teachings relevant to this For example…

5-mark Question:
The question command phrase is: “Explain two…” in addition it will also ask you to:
In Paper 1: ‘Refer to sacred writings or another source of Christian/Muslim/ belief and teaching in your
answer’. In Paper 2: ‘Refer to sacred writings or another source of religious belief and teaching in your
answer.’
The ‘reference’ to teachings or writings can either be paraphrased or can be a direct quotation.
As sacred writings and religious beliefs and teachings you might include:

 a quotation from a holy book e.g. the Bible or the Qur’an;

 a statement of religious beliefs e.g. the Apostle’s Creed or Shahadah;
 a prayer e.g. the Lord’s Prayer;
 a statement made by a religious leader e.g. the Pope;
 a quotation from a religious text e.g. the Catholic Catechism or Hadith.
You need to use the same structure as 4 marks in your answer, but you HAVE TO add at least ONE QUOTE
or TEACHING in support of your point (it doesn’t matter if you add it in the first or second paragraph). If
you can quote exact phrases this will impress the examiner. If you can’t remember the exact verse that a
quotation is from, try to at least name the holy book.

Paragraph 1 Explain one belief/teaching One Christian/Muslim teaching/belief about

___________ is that ……………………….

Explanation (develop your This means/shows/suggests/implies …………..…

explanations with more
details/an example)
 If you decide to add a A quote/teaching to show this is…
reference to sacred writings
(a quote/teaching) you don’t
add it to your second
paragraph)
Page |
44
Paragraph 2 Explain a second A second Christian/Muslim teaching/belief about
belief/teaching ___________ is that ……………………….

This means/shows/suggests/implies ……………..…

Explanation (develop your
explanations with more
details/an example)
Add a reference to sacred A quote/teaching to show this is…
writings or another source of
Christian/Muslim belief and
teaching. If you prefer you
can add this reference to your
first belief instead
Remember: You need only one reference to sacred writings – only in one paragraph – your choice which
one.

12-mark Question:
Planning an attack on an evaluative question:
When trying to answer 12-mark question:

 Make sure that you are writing about the statement and not just giving religious attitudes to the
topic – there is no point in writing what Christians and Muslims think about war generally, if the
statement says “War is the biggest issue in the world today.’
 You have to give arguments to agree and to disagree – giving one-sided answer will limit your it.
 You have to have a strong religious content – not just one religious argument or point.
 Use religious teachings to prove those religious arguments.
 You have to explain your arguments – just listing reasons to agree or disagree is not going to get
you far enough. Each time you give a reason, explain it by extending the point – try to give
examples to illustrate what you mean.
 Use examples to help you support your reasons – they are very effective for showing the point
clearly
 Write persuasively – Use a minimum of three paragraphs (one giving arguments for the statement, one
giving arguments against and a final conclusion). As a guide, this could be around 250 words, aim for a full
page of writing. The examiner will expect to see extended writing and full sentences.

A useful checklist for checking your 12-mark answers:

 Did you agree with the statement? What are your reasons?
 Did you explain all of those reasons?
 Did you include at least one religious argument which was explained in those reasons?
 Did you disagree with the statement? What are your reasons?
  Did you explain all of those reasons?
 Did you include at least one religious argument which was explained in those reasons?
 Is your opinion different? If so, add it.

SPaG:
You will be judged on your written English in each of the 12-mark questions you answer. It is based around Page |
the quality of your spelling, punctuation and grammar. 45

A maximum of 3 marks will be awarded if :

 Your spelling and punctuation are consistently accurate

 You use grammar properly to control the meaning of what you are trying to say
 You use specialist and religious terminology appropriately. For example, the examiner will be
impressed if you use appropriately the term ‘resurrection’ rather than just saying ‘raising from the
dead’.

In Paper 1 , SPaG will be awarded on the Beliefs question for each religion.
In Paper 2, SPaG will be assessed on each 12-mark question, and the examiner will pick your best mark to
add to the total.
Always try to use your best written English in the 12-mark questions. It could be a chance to pick up
extra marks for SPaG, which sometimes can change your grade!

12-mark Question:
Answer needs to be put into 3 paragraphs: presenting arguments FOR/Against/ Evaluation
Point: first reason Most Christians/ Catholics/
Paragraph 1 – Reasoned /way/belief Protestants/Muslims believe/ say/ think/
arguments in support of the agree………
statement Evidence Evidence to support this…
 Explain why some A quote/teaching to show this is…
people would agree with For example…
the statement Explanation This shows/suggests/implies ………….
F
 Develop your O
explanations with more Point: second Moreover, some Christians/ Catholics/
R
detail and examples reason /belief/way Protestants/Muslims/Atheists believe/
 Refer to religious say/ think/agree….
teaching. Use a quote or Evidence Evidence to support this…
paraphrase or refer to For example…
religious authority Explanation This shows/suggests/implies…

Point: first reason Muslims/Christians/Atheists/Protestants

Paragraph 2 – Reasoned /way/belief say/think..
arguments in support of the Most Muslims believe/ think/
statement say/disagree….
 Explain why some A Evidence Evidence to support this…
people would disagree For example…
G
with the Explanation This shows/suggests/implies…
A
 statement/support a I Point: Second Moreover, some Christians/
different view N reason /belief/ way Muslims/Catholics/ Protestants / Atheists
 Develop your S believe/ say/ think/disagree….
explanations with more T Evidence Evidence to support this…
detail and examples A quote/teaching to show this is…
 Refer to religious For example…
teaching. Use a quote or Explanation This shows/suggests/implies… Page |
paraphrase or refer to 46
religious authority

Paragraph 3 – Conclusion Your Evaluation of the Overall, I think….

 Give a justified own overall response This is because…
conclusion opinion
 Include your own
opinion together with
your own reasoning
 Include EVALUATION.
Explain why you think
one viewpoint is
stronger than the other
or why they are equaly
strong
 Do not just repeat
arguments you have
already used without
explaining how they
apply to your reasoned
opinion/conclusion
Use connectives between paragraphs such as: Firstly/ secondly/ however/ also/ moreover……

12-mark Question level 7-9

Point: first reason Most Christians/ Catholics/
Paragraph 1 – Reasoned /way/belief Protestants/Muslims believe/ say/ think/
arguments in support of the agree………
Evidence Evidence to support this…
statement
A quote/teaching to show this is…
 Explain why some people
For example…
would agree with the
Explanation This shows/suggests/implies ………….
statement
 Develop your explanations F
with more detail and O Point: second reason Moreover, some Christians/ Catholics/
examples /belief/way Protestants/Muslims/Atheists believe/ say/
R
 Refer to religious teaching. think/agree….
Use a quote or paraphrase Evidence Evidence to support this…
or refer to religious For example…
authority Explanation This shows/suggests/implies…
 Evaluate the arguments, Is
it a good argument or not?
Explain why you think so. Evaluation This is a strong/weak argument because
…………

Point: first reason Muslims/Christians/Atheists/Protestants

Paragraph 2 – Reasoned /way/belief say/think..
arguments in support of the Most Muslims believe/ think/ say/disagree….
Evidence Evidence to support this…
statement
For example…
  Explain why some people A Explanation This shows/suggests/implies…
would disagree with the G
statement/support a Point: Second reason Moreover, some Christians/ Muslims/Catholics/
A
different view /belief/ way Protestants / Atheists believe/ say/
 Develop your explanations I think/disagree….
with more detail and N Evidence Evidence to support this…
examples S A quote/teaching to show this is…
Page |
 Refer to religious teaching. T For example…
Use a quote or paraphrase Explanation This shows/suggests/implies… 47
or refer to religious
authority Evaluation This is a strong/weak argument because
…………..
 Evaluate the arguments, Is
it a good argument or not?
Explain why you think so.

Paragraph 3 – Conclusion Your Evaluation of the Overall, I think….

 Give a justified conclusion overall response This is because…
own
 Include your own opinion opinion
together with your own
reasoning
 Include EVALUATION.
Explain why you think one
viewpoint is stronger than
the other or why they are
equaly strong
 Do not just repeat
arguments you have
already used without
explaining how they apply
to your reasoned
opinion/conclusion

In 12 marks answer you need to use at least one quote or religious teaching in support of your arguments

Connectives:

Connectives to Connectives to Connectives to justify Ideas with evidence

compare and contrast sequence ideas For example…
Similarly…. Firstly…. Since…
Likewise… Whereas… This asserts….
On the other hand…. Secondly…. As evidenced by….
Also… but…. Furthermore… This suggests…
Both… Then… This infers….
In the same way…. Finally… Although…
Equally…. Meanwhile… This implies…
Correspondingly… After…. As a result…
Mutually… Previously…. I discovered….
However…. Whilst…. I agree with/disagree with….
Which…
Because….
So….
I think/feel/believe…
In my opinion…..
Emphasis: Restriction: Comparison: Conclusion:
above all only if equally to conclude
in particular unless similarly in conclusion
notably except (for) in comparison finally
specifically likewise
more importantly to contrast
alternatively
despite this
Page |
48
Addition: Opinion/Interpreting: Summary: Persuasion:
and it would seem in brief of course
also it appears on the whole clearly
in addition obviously summarising evidently
further possibly overall surely
furthermore it seems to sum up certainly
as well as likely to recapitulate decidedly
and then presumably evidently indeed
one might consider undoubtedly

Contrast/Balance: Time: Illustration:

however initially for example
nevertheless then for instance
alternatively next in other words
despite this afterwards to show that
on the contrary finally such as
yet subsequently an instance
whereas eventually as revealed by
previously

SENTENCE OPENERS

 “Some Christians believe…”  “Some people would agree with this

 (There are very few things that ALL statement because….”
Christians believe!)  “Others would disagree with this statement
 “Christians who believe this do so because….”
because….”  “On the other hand….”
 This belief can affect their attitudes to this  “An alternative approach would be…”
issue because…”  “Personally I believe that…..”
 “This is a contentious issue because…..”  “I think this because….”

To improve your writing you must ensure:

 Sentences always start with a capital letter.

 Sentences always end with a full stop, question mark or exclamation mark.
 Vocabulary is varied – choose interesting words – use a thesaurus.
 Use RE specific language
 Names of people, places, etc have capital letters e.g.Jesus, Allah, Christians, Muslims .
  A variety of sentences are used
 Writing is organised into paragraphs – start with a topic sentence and use the 2 ‘T’s rule.
You should start a new paragraph when there is a shift of viewpoint .
 Details are included by using adjectives, fact and opinions, use religious teachings and quotes.
 Spelling is accurate – use a dictionary.
 A variety of punctuation has been used (. , ! ? ‘ “” ; : …). Page |
 Proof read your work to ensure it makes sense. 49

Common Spelling Mistakes Common RE Spellings to watch out

for:
Achievement, grateful, until,
Beautiful, its/it’s, weather/whether, belief religious
Because, lose/loose, were/where/wear, altar conceive
Beginning, know/no, which, crucifixion angel
Committed, necessary, Jesus Allah
Commitment, of/off, Qur’an contraception
Grammar, to/too/two, Conception to believe
Convenient, opinion, receive reconciliation
Definitely, really, priest
Environment, separate,
Excellent, technique, Use CAPITAL letters for names. E.g. Christians,
Government, their/there/they’re Muslims, Islam, God, Allah, Qur’an, Bible, The
Mass, Eucharist, The Church (referring to a
denomination), Him, His, Himself (referring to a
particular God), The Day of Judgement, etc.

Don’t forget to relax after working hard. Take some colouring pencils and distress!
 Page |
50

GOOD LUCK 😊