GCSE Religious Studies (EPR)

Type of subject: Humanity

This subject goes well with: English, history.

It goes with all subjects as it develops your analytical thinking and your reasoned evaluation which is needed in all subjects.

Examples of topics studied:

Why do people believe in God? Should abortion be allowed? Is war ever justified? Should we be allowed to bring back the death penalty? Should seriously or terminally ill people be given the right to end their own lives? What right do people have to play ‘God’ in medical matters – euthanasia, transplant surgery, genetic engineering, and animal experimentation? How can religious people explain their view in the modern world – creation, evolution, evil, and suffering?

How is the course assessed?

You will have two exams at the end of the second year. There is no coursework or controlled assessment.

Additional information:

EPR is useful in a wide range of professions – journalism and media, politics, medicine, law, sports, Armed Forces, police, social care and education.  It is actively sought for when applying for an arts degree from Oxford and Cambridge universities and other top universities.

Students will develop high level skills which are required for success at A level and further education, such as analytical and strategic thinking, critical judgment, ability to understand both sides of an argument in order to resolve conflict.  Students will also establish the ability to present a logical argument and develop clarity in written and verbal argument.  They will show open mindedness and an appreciation of human diversity, belief systems and cultural and spiritual experiences.  These are essentials skills to possess in today’s current climate.

This is a good subject to choose because religion is an inescapable part of our world today. It’s reflected in the media, in politics, in economics, culture and foreign policy.

Across the globe, religious agendas have fuelled conflict and encouraged acts of terrorism and ethnic cleansing.  But religious traditions have also laid the foundation for human rights, social justice and international peace.  This is a subject which reaches beyond the classroom.

Who should I talk to if I want to ask about this subject?

Mrs L Roberts