Ethical and Religious Studies is a combined study of some of the world’s best literature, ideas, philosophy and cultures. The GCSE Religious Studies course has two main parts:
1. Faith Studies and Ethics in Two Religions (Hinduism and Christianity)
2. Truth, Spirituality and Contemporary Issues.
We study the ideas and practices of Christianity and Hinduism, two contrasting religions with different views about the nature of God, human life and the universe. We investigate the respective public and private places of worship of these faiths and the response of their scripture, leaders and contemporary organisations to issues such as human relationships (marriage, divorce, contraception and sexuality), prejudice and discrimination (based on colour, age, gender and sexual orientation), animals and the environment (genetic modification of animals, global warming and deforestation) and finally pressure groups and minority rights.
We also investigate the different religious types of truth, the nature of spirituality, religious attitudes to matters of life, matters of death, drug abuse, the media and technology, crime and punishment and religious attitudes to rich and poor in society.
Assessment is based upon two examinations taken at the end of the course and there is no coursework. No faith or religious commitment is necessary to take GCSE RS, just an interest in the topics involved.
Why Study Ethical and Religious Studies?
- The material itself is inherently interesting in diverse, yet inter related ways. This helps us consider how far our society has, or has not, progressed.
- Your imagination, powers of interpretation and observation will be stirred. Your curiosity will be encouraged, together with your ability to form views and make comparisons.
- ERS will provoke you into discussion and personal reaction, stimulate your skills in writing informed, well structured essays.
- We will use and enjoy videos, CD ROMS and the Internet.
- It will provide an enjoyable and challenging medium to work your way towards AS Level Religious Studies in the Sixth Form.
Students will have the opportunity to go on two fieldtrips. The first will visit Leicester to see a Hindu Mandir and secondly, to either Lichfield or Lincoln to see a variety of places of Christian worship.