Religious Studies

    AQA
    GCSE

    Specification: 8062

    The AQA GCSE Religious Studies specification covers 61 topics with 0 learning objectives (8062). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.

    Religious Studies examines the beliefs, teachings and practices of major world religions. You'll explore ethical issues, philosophical arguments and how religion influences individuals and societies.

    61

    Topics

    0

    Objectives

    246

    Exam Tips

    228

    Pitfalls

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    Study Guides

    28 revision guides for AQA GCSE Religious Studies

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    Key Features

    • Compare religious teachings
    • Evaluate ethical arguments
    • Understand religious practices
    • Analyse contemporary issues

    About AQA GCSE Religious Studies

    The AQA GCSE Religious Studies course offers students a comprehensive exploration of two major world religions, examining their beliefs, teachings, and practices in depth. Students will engage with key philosophical and ethical issues through a series of thematic studies, applying religious perspectives to contemporary moral questions. This course is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical writing, and empathetic understanding of diverse worldviews, preparing learners for further study and active citizenship.

    Structured into two examined components, the specification balances the study of religion with thematic ethics. Students will investigate how religious traditions respond to topics such as relationships, life and death, crime and punishment, and human rights. The course encourages respectful dialogue and personal reflection, equipping learners with the skills to evaluate different viewpoints and construct well-reasoned arguments.

    Aligned with AQA's clear and accessible assessment style, this GCSE is widely recognized for its academic rigour and real-world relevance. The specification's flexibility allows schools to select the religions and themes best suited to their cohorts, while a focus on contemporary issues ensures the content remains engaging and thought-provoking.

    Assessment Structure

    The AQA GCSE Religious Studies qualification is assessed through two written examinations, each lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes and contributing 50% to the final grade (100 marks per paper, 200 marks total). Paper 1 examines the beliefs, teachings, and practices of two chosen religions, while Paper 2 assesses knowledge and understanding of four thematic studies. There is no coursework or controlled assessment; all components are externally examined at the end of the course.

    Why Choose AQA?

    • Clear and well-structured assessments: AQA's question papers are renowned for their straightforward language and logical layout, reducing misunderstanding and allowing students to demonstrate their knowledge effectively.
    • Flexible curriculum options: Schools can tailor the course by selecting from a wide range of religions (Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Judaism, etc.) and thematic studies, enabling educators to play to their strengths and students' interests.
    • Extensive teaching support: AQA provides a wealth of resources, including specimen papers, marked exemplars, and detailed schemes of work, making it easier for teachers to deliver and for students to revise confidently.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Assessment Objectives

    AO1
    50%

    Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of religion and belief, including: • beliefs, practices and sources of authority • influence on individuals, communities and societies • similarities and differences within and/or between religions and beliefs

    AO2
    50%

    Analyse and evaluate aspects of religion and belief, including their significance and influence

    What Gets Top Grades

    A*/Grade 9

    Knowledge & Understanding

    Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge

    • Uses correct subject-specific terminology
    • Shows detailed understanding of concepts
    • Makes accurate connections between topics
    • Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge

    Application

    Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts

    • Selects relevant knowledge for the question
    • Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
    • Uses examples appropriately
    • Shows awareness of context

    Analysis & Evaluation

    Develops sophisticated analytical arguments

    • Constructs logical chains of reasoning
    • Considers multiple perspectives
    • Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
    • Acknowledges limitations and nuances

    Key Command Words

    AQA
    State
    1 mark

    Give a single fact or term

    Identify
    1 mark

    Name, select, or recognise

    Outline
    2 marks

    Set out main features briefly

    Describe
    2-4 marks

    Give an account of what something is like or what happens

    Explain
    3-6 marks

    Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains

    Compare
    2-4 marks

    State similarities AND differences (both required)

    Analyse
    6-9 marks

    Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains

    Evaluate
    6-12 marks

    Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion

    Assess
    6-12 marks

    Make judgments about importance with justification

    Calculate
    2-4 marks

    Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units

    Common Exam Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exams

    • •Failing to address common and divergent views within the religion.
    • •Neglecting to refer to sources of wisdom and authority (scripture/sacred texts) where appropriate.
    • •Not explicitly linking beliefs and practices to their influence on individuals, communities and societies.
    • •Choosing a prohibited combination (Christianity and Catholic Christianity).
    • •Failing to demonstrate understanding of the diversity of religious traditions in Great Britain.
    • •Confusing Theravada and Mahayana concepts (e.g., Arhat vs Bodhisattva)
    • •Misunderstanding the Three Marks of Existence
    • •Failing to link practices to their underlying beliefs

    Top Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for exam success

    • •Ensure you are familiar with the specific differences identified in the specification for your chosen religions.
    • •Practice the five-part question structure (1, 1, 4, 6, 12 marks) to manage time effectively.
    • •Use specialist terminology accurately to achieve higher marks in SPaG.
    • •For the 12-mark evaluation questions, ensure you provide a balanced argument that considers different perspectives.
    • •Refer to specific religious texts or scriptures to support your points in both AO1 and AO2 responses.
    • •Ensure you can define and explain key terms like 'anicca', 'anatta', and 'dukkha'
    • •Be prepared to compare Theravada and Mahayana perspectives where specified
    • •Use Buddhist sources of wisdom and authority (e.g., Dhammapada, Jataka tales) to support arguments

    Specification Topics

    61 topics

    Component 1: The study of religions: beliefs, teachings and practices

    Component 1: The study of religions: beliefs, teachings and practices requires students to study the beliefs, teachings and practices of two religions from a choice of Buddhism, Christianity, Catholic Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, or Sikhism. Students must understand the influence of these beliefs on individuals, communities, and societies, and be aware of common and divergent views within the chosen traditions.

    0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

    Buddhism

    The study of Buddhist beliefs, teachings, and practices, including the Dhamma, the Buddha's life, the Four Noble Truths, worship, festivals, and ethics, with a focus on Theravada and Mahayana traditions.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Key Beliefs

    This topic covers the foundational beliefs of Buddhism, specifically focusing on the Dhamma, the Three Marks of Existence, the human personality in Theravada and Mahayana traditions, human destiny, the life of the Buddha, and the Four Noble Truths.

    0 objectives3 tips

    Practices

    This topic covers the practices of Buddhism, specifically focusing on worship, festivals, and ethical teachings. It explores the nature and importance of various Buddhist places of worship, the role of puja, meditation techniques, death and mourning rituals, and key festivals. It also details Buddhist ethical frameworks, including kamma, compassion, loving kindness, the five moral precepts, and the six perfections in the Mahayana tradition.

    0 objectives

    Christianity

    This topic covers the core beliefs, teachings, and practices of Christianity, including the nature of God, the role of Jesus Christ in salvation, various forms of worship, sacraments, festivals, and the role of the Church in local and worldwide communities.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Beliefs and teachings

    This topic covers the core theological beliefs and teachings of Christianity as specified in the AQA GCSE Religious Studies A specification, focusing on the nature of God, the Trinity, creation, the afterlife, and the role of Jesus Christ in salvation.

    0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

    Catholic Christianity

    This topic covers the beliefs, teachings, and practices of Catholic Christianity, focusing on the Trinity, creation, incarnation, redemption, life after death, the seven sacraments, worship, and the work of the Church in the local and global community.

    0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

    Hinduism

    The study of Hinduism as a diverse religious tradition, focusing on beliefs about the nature of God, human life, and the practices of worship, festivals, and lifestyle.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Islam

    The Islam component of the AQA GCSE Religious Studies A specification covers the core beliefs, teachings, and practices of Islam, including the differences between Sunni and Shi'a traditions. It explores the nature of God, the role of prophets and holy books, and the Five Pillars of Sunni Islam alongside the Ten Obligatory Acts of Shi'a Islam.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Judaism

    This topic covers the core beliefs, teachings, and practices of Judaism, including the nature of God, the Covenant, the mitzvot, synagogue worship, and family life/festivals, with an emphasis on common and divergent views within the tradition.

    0 objectives3 tips

    Sikhism

    The study of Sikhism as a diverse religious tradition in Great Britain, focusing on key beliefs, teachings, and practices, including the nature of God, human life, worship, and the role of the gurdwara and community.

    0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

    Component 2: Thematic studies

    Component 2: Thematic studies requires students to study four themes. Students may choose either four religious, philosophical and ethical studies themes (Themes A-F) or two religious, philosophical and ethical studies themes and two textual studies themes (Themes G-H). The component focuses on applying religious teachings and sources of wisdom to contemporary issues, analyzing different perspectives, and evaluating the impact of religion on the modern world.

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    Religious, philosophical and ethical studies

    Component 2.1 (Theme A-F) covers religious, philosophical and ethical studies. Students must study religious teachings, and religious, philosophical and ethical arguments relating to specific issues, and their impact and influence in the modern world. They must be aware of contrasting perspectives in contemporary British society, including religious and non-religious beliefs such as atheism and humanism, and explain contrasting beliefs with reference to Christianity and one or more other religious traditions.

    0 objectives4 tips

    Theme A: Relationships and families

    Theme A: Relationships and families explores religious teachings, philosophical and ethical arguments regarding human relationships, marriage, family structures, and gender equality in the modern world, with a focus on contrasting perspectives in contemporary British society.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Theme B: Religion and life

    Theme B: Religion and life explores the origins and value of the universe and human life, focusing on the relationship between religious teachings and scientific views, environmental stewardship, and the ethics of abortion, euthanasia, and animal experimentation.

    0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

    Theme C: The existence of God and revelation

    This theme explores the existence of God and the nature of revelation, focusing on philosophical arguments for and against God's existence, the nature of the divine, and different forms of revelation including visions, miracles, and nature.

    0 objectives5 tips5 pitfalls

    Theme D: Religion, peace and conflict

    Theme D: Religion, peace and conflict explores religious, philosophical, and ethical perspectives on violence, war, and peace-making. It examines the causes of conflict, the morality of war, and the role of religion in both inciting and resolving violence in the 21st century.

    0 objectives5 tips

    Theme E: Religion, crime and punishment

    This theme explores religious, philosophical, and ethical perspectives on crime and punishment, focusing on the causes of crime, the aims of punishment, and the role of forgiveness within religious traditions, particularly Christianity and at least one other religion.

    0 objectives3 tips

    Theme F: Religion, human rights and social justice

    This theme explores the relationship between religion, human rights, and social justice, focusing on prejudice, discrimination, equality, and the ethical use of wealth and poverty.

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    Textual studies

    Textual studies (Themes G and H) focuses on the study of St Mark's Gospel. Students examine the life, ministry, and teachings of Jesus, exploring the significance of his actions, miracles, and parables. The study includes analysis of Jesus' relationships with those disregarded by society, the nature of faith and discipleship, and the authority of the Gospel in the 21st century.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Theme G: St Mark's Gospel – the life of Jesus

    Theme G focuses on the life of Jesus as recorded in St Mark's Gospel, covering his early ministry, later ministry, and final days in Jerusalem. It examines the significance of Jesus' titles, his role as a teacher and miracle worker, and the theological implications of his death and resurrection.

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    Theme H: St Mark's Gospel as a source of religious, moral and spiritual truths

    This theme explores St Mark's Gospel as a source of religious, moral, and spiritual truths, focusing on the Kingdom of God, Jesus' relationships with those disregarded by society, and the nature of faith and discipleship.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Worship and festivals

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Philosophical arguments for and against the existence of God

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Ideas about the nature of God and existence

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    The origins and value of the universe

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Jesus' relationships with those disregarded by society

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Authority

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    The Dhamma (Dharma)

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Religion and belief in 21st century conflict

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Worship

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Religion and punishment

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    The seven sacraments

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Wealth and poverty

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    The Buddha and the Four Noble Truths

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    The synagogue and worship

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    The origins and value of human life

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    The early ministry of Jesus

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Beliefs about the nature of human life

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Family life and festivals

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    The nature of the divine and revelation

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Sex, marriage and divorce

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Jesus Christ and salvation

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Significance

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Festivals and lifestyle

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Lifestyle

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Key beliefs

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    The work of the Church

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    The Covenant and the mitzvot

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    The role of the church in the local and worldwide community

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Families and gender equality

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Duties and festivals

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    The later ministry of Jesus

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Religion, crime and the causes of crime

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Human rights

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Faith and discipleship

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    The final days in Jerusalem

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Religion, violence, terrorism and war

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Buddhist ethics

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    Worship and service

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

    The Kingdom of God

    The Dhamma (Dharma) is a foundational concept in Buddhism, representing the universal truth, the Buddha's teachings, and the path to Enlightenment. It encompasses the nature of reality, the human condition, and the ethical framework required to end suffering.

    0 objectives4 tips4 pitfalls

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