GCSE Religious Studies Revision: Theme B - Religion and Life

Overview

• Discusses topics from euthanasia to animal experimentation
• Contrasting Christian and Islamic beliefs
• Aims to secure top marks in exams (24/24, Grade 9)

Exam Technique

1. Question 1: Worth 1 mark. Tick the correct keyword (AQA key terms).
2. Question 2: Worth 2 marks. Bullet point two beliefs (state religion and summarize belief).
3. Question 3: Worth 4 marks. Explain two beliefs in detail (use 'this is because').
4. Question 4: Worth 5 marks. Explain two beliefs with scripture reference (accurate paraphrase required).
5. Question 5: Worth 12 marks. Evaluate a statement:
   • Explain two arguments to agree and two to disagree
   • Use religious evidence (Bible, Quran, etc.)
   • Evaluate arguments’ strength
   • Reach a justified conclusion

Topics Discussed

Origins of the Universe

• Big Bang Theory: Supported by some Christians (Pope Francis) and Muslims as a means of God’s creation.
• Literalist Views: Reject Big Bang Theory, believing in creation as described in religious texts.
• Non-Literalist Views: Accept scientific explanations alongside religious beliefs.

Origins of Human Life

• Evolution: Some Christians and Muslims accept evolution as a means of God’s creation.
• Literalist Views: Reject evolution, adhering to the creation of Adam and Eve as literal truth.

Stewardship and Dominion

• Stewardship: Duty from God to care for the world, emphasized in both Christianity and Islam.
• Dominion: Belief in control over the world, justifying use of natural resources and animals.

Use of Animals

• Animal Experimentation: Differentiates between medical and cosmetic testing.
• Christian Views: Dominion supports use, stewardship opposes unnecessary harm.
• Islamic Views: Permissible use but emphasizes responsibility and avoidance of harm.

Sanctity of Life

• Sanctity vs. Quality of Life: Sacredness of life vs. standard of living.
• Christian Views: Strong and weak versions, relating to abortion and euthanasia.
• Islamic Views: Life is sacred, only God can take it away.

Abortion

• Supportive Views: In situations where the mother's health is at risk.
• Opposition: Life begins at conception, interfering with God’s plan is wrong.

Euthanasia

• Supportive Views: Compassionate response to terminal illness, influenced by situation ethics.
• Opposition: Only God decides life and death, sanctity of life is paramount.

Life After Death

• Christian Beliefs: Heaven and hell with varying interpretations of their nature.
• Islamic Beliefs: Heaven as a journey towards God, hell as punishment for sinners.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding both Christian and Islamic perspectives is crucial.
• Demonstrating knowledge of religious texts can enhance answers.
• Evaluating arguments and reaching justified conclusions can secure top marks.