

Belief and Values
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It is not our differences that divide us but the inability to recognise, accept, and celebrate those differences.’ Audre Lorde
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In our ever changing world the understanding of each other’s differences is more vital than ever. It is our aim to explore thoughts, ideas and beliefs from both a religious and non-religious perspective. Pupils will be challenged in their thinking and understanding to consider other people’s thoughts and feelings.
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Curriculum Overview – Key Stage 3
At Key Stage 3, students will study:
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Year 7
An introduction to religion
Why study religion?
A brief overview of six world religions.
Christianity and Justice
A focus on Martin Luther King and his fight for justice in America.
How MLK’s Christian faith inspired him to want to make a change.
Whitford Mosque
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A study of Islamic beliefs and values, specifically the five pillars and the why these are important to Muslims.
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Debating whether the call to prayer should be broadcast five times a day.
Year 8
Human rights and responsibilities
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Exploration of ethical issues ranging from the rights of animals to whose decision should it be to separate conjoined twins.
Body and soul
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How do we use our bodies and mind? What does this mean to religious people? A focus on Buddhism and mindfulness.
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A study of transplants and transfusions and the ethical dilemmas these raise.
Sikhism
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A study of Sikh beliefs and values, specifically the five K’s and why these are important to Sikhs.
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To explore the issues of being a Sikh in modern Britain.
Year 9
Good and Evil
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To explore the idea of good and evil from a variety of viewpoints including Christian, Hindu and Humanist.
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Questioning ‘Why do bad things happen to good people?
Ultimate Questions – a focus on the question of suffering
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What happens when we die?
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Is there a God?
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Why is there suffering in the world?
Rwanda and The Holocaust comparison
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A comparison between Rwanda and the Holocaust
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Evaluating whether trials and punishments would help stop the suffering.
GCSE Courses
AQA Religious Studies Specification A.
Two exams (components) both worth 50% of the overall mark
Component 1: The study of religions: beliefs, teachings and practices.
At present we study Christianity and Islam.
Component 2: Thematic studies
• Theme B: Religion and life.
• Theme D: Religion, peace and conflict.
• Theme E: Religion, crime and punishment.
• Theme F: Religion, human rights and social justice.
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Homework / Independent Learning
As lessons are fortnightly pupils will be given a homework each term that will contribute to an assessed piece of work in class.
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Extra-curricular and Enrichment Opportunities
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Easter Celebration in year 7.
Acts of Kindness week in year 8.
Silver smarties in year 9.
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