How to Revise Component 1 (Route A): Religious Philosophical and Ethical Studies in the Modern World — Theme 3: Issues of Good and Evil — WJEC GCSE Religious Studies

Component 1 (Route A): Religious Philosophical and Ethical Studies in the Modern World — Theme 3: Issues of Good and Evil is a topic in the WJEC GCSE Religious Studies specification. This guide covers learning objectives, examiner tips, common mistakes, and key terminology to help you revise effectively.

Examiner Tips for Component 1 (Route A): Religious Philosophical and Ethical Studies in the Modern World — Theme 3: Issues of Good and Evil

• Always use key sources of wisdom and authority, such as Bible passages or teachings from prominent theologians, to support arguments.
• For evaluation questions, present a balanced argument by considering both sides before reaching a justified conclusion.
• Define key terms precisely at the start of your answer, e.g. 'theodicy', 'moral evil', 'omnibenevolence'.
• Connect theoretical concepts to real-world examples of suffering to demonstrate applied understanding.
• Be specific about denominational differences where relevant, e.g. contrasting Catholic and Protestant views on original sin.

Common Mistakes in Component 1 (Route A): Religious Philosophical and Ethical Studies in the Modern World — Theme 3: Issues of Good and Evil

• Confusing natural evil with moral evil, or failing to provide clear examples of each.
• Assuming that all Christians interpret suffering as a direct punishment from God.
• Omitting to consider alternative theodicies beyond the free will defence, such as soul-making theodicy.
• Failing to distinguish between the logical problem of evil and the evidential problem, treating them as identical.
• Describing the problem of evil without critically evaluating its impact on religious belief.

Key Marking Points

• Award credit for demonstrating accurate understanding of the logical and evidential problems of evil.
• Credit for using specific religious teachings, such as Genesis 3 (the Fall) and Romans 5:12–21, to explain the origin of evil.
• Reward clear distinction between natural and moral evil with relevant contemporary or historical examples.
• Give credit for evaluating the free will defence, including its compatibility with God's attributes of omnipotence and benevolence.
• Credit for linking responses to evil with Christian practices such as prayer, charity, and social justice.