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In this series I am doing a deep dive into AQA Paper 2: Themes. I have done an overview of Paper 2 so if you haven't listened to that one you might want to do that first.

In this episode I will briefly go through all the key content for Theme A Relationships and Family and apply it to 4, 6 and 12-mark questions.

The three focus topics for this unit are;

Contraception.
Sexual relationships before marriage.
Same sex relationships.

But we will also look at;
Human sexuality including: heterosexual
Sexual relationships outside of marriage.
Family planning.
The nature and purpose of marriage.
Same-sex marriage and cohabitation.
Divorce, including reasons for divorce, and remarrying.
Ethical arguments related to divorce, including those based on the sanctity of marriage vows and compassion.
The nature of families, including:
the role of parents and children
extended families and the nuclear family.
The purpose of families, including:
procreation
stability and the protection of children
educating children in a faith.
Contemporary family issues including:
same-sex parents
polygamy.
The roles of men and women.
Gender equality.
Gender prejudice and discrimination, including examples.

4-markers

Explain two different beliefs in contemporary British society about the use of artificial contraception within marriage. In your answer you should refer to the main religious tradition of Great Britain and one or more other religious traditions.
Some Christians believe that it is wrong because it a human preventing life being created
This is because they believe only God should be able to create or prevent life
However, other Christians believe that it is acceptable because it prevents unwanted children
Family planning is seen as a loving action to ensure every child is able to be cared for in a family.

6-markers

Explain two religious beliefs about the role of parents in a religious family. Refer to sacred writings or another source of religious belief and teaching in your answer
Christians believe that one role is to bring their child up in the faith
This means they will take them to Church, teach them how to pray and read the Bible
This is because of the Bible where it says ‘teach your child the way they should go and they will not stray from it’
This quote shows that the hope for parents is that their children will make their own commitment when they are older.
Another role is to provide stability for their family
They can do this by working hard at their relationship to ensure they stay together.

12-marker

‘Divorce is never right.’

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This episode is an introduction to GCSE AQA Religious Studies Paper 2

In this episode we will cover some of the key mistakes pupils make in Paper 2 as it is organised slightly differently from Paper 1, go through some top tips that you will need to get the maximum mark possible and look at the different question styles that you will encounter in your exam to help give you the confidence to know what you need to do in the real paper.

Sample exam papers;

https://cdn.sanity.io/files/p28bar15/green/d5bcec89967bac72569df625ad4f90c8b8cc6d97.pdf?_gl=1*13sp7lm*_gcl_au*MTI4ODYxMjIzOC4xNzYwNDU5MTI

4 markers

Explain two different beliefs in contemporary British society about abortion. In your answer you should refer to the main religious tradition of Great Britain and one or more other religious traditions.

Some Christians believe that it is wrong because it is ending the life of a human.

This is because they believe in the sanctity of life which is that all life is sacred.

A different Christian belief is that it is sometimes necessary for example if the mothers life is at risk.

This is because they believe that the mothers life is more important than the foetus’ particularly if she has other children

Explain two similar religious beliefs about gender equality. In your answer you must refer to one or more religious traditions.

Most Christians believe that gender equality is important because all humans are equal.

This is because God made all humans in his image.

A similar Christian belief is that gender equality is important because God loves all humans equally.

This is because God is omnibenevolent which means all loving.

6-markers

THEME E Explain two religious beliefs about forgiveness. Refer to sacred writings or another source of religious belief and teaching in your answer.

Christians believe that God is forgiving so will forgive criminals for their crime
This is because Christians believe God is all loving and forgiveness is a loving action

Christians also believe they should forgive other people who have committed crime against them.
This is because in the Lord’s prayer it is ‘forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us’
This shows Christians that if they are receiving God’s forgiveness, they should then forgive criminals.

THEME C Explain two religious beliefs about miracles. Refer to sacred writings or another source of religious belief and teaching in your answer.

THEME D Explain two religious beliefs about forgiveness. Refer to sacred writings or another source of religious belief and teaching in your answer.

12 Marker

Theme C The design argument proves that God exists.’ Evaluate this statement.

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This episode of the RE Podcast explores the importance of RE in today's society, addressing the misconceptions surrounding the subject, the current recruitment crisis, and the exciting future for aspiring RE teachers. The conversation features insights from experienced educators and new teachers, highlighting the diverse backgrounds of RE teachers and the critical role of RE in fostering community cohesion and critical thinking among students. The episode also discusses funding opportunities for those interested in pursuing a career in RE and emphasises the supportive nature of the RE community.

Funding

https://www.cstg.org.uk/funding/individual/

Karen's blog

https://www.worcester.ac.uk/about/news/academic-blog/education-blogs/how-you-can-make-a-difference-as-an-re-teacher.aspx

God - A very short introduction

https://academic.oup.com/book/484

Religion and Media Centre

https://religionmediacentre.org.uk/

https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1295498/episodes/11254078-s7-e2-the-one-about-religion-media-centre

National Content Standard

https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1295498/episodes/14530622-s11-e9-the-one-about-the-national-content-standard

Curriculum And Assessment Review https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1295498/episodes/18179527-curriculum-and-assessment-review-special

Routes to becoming an RE Teacher

https://www.cstg.org.uk/campaigns/teacher-recruitment/becoming-a-teacher/

Get into teaching (DfE)

https://getintoteaching.education.gov.uk/life-as-a-teacher/explore-subjects/religious-education

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Explain two ways Muslims practice jihad.

One way is though lesser Jihad which is the military struggle to defend Islam.

This must be carried out according to strict and clear cut rules, for example you can’t harm children

Another way is greater jihad, which is the personal struggle of every Muslim to live by the teachings of their faith

For example pray every day.

Explain two different ways Eid Ul Fitr is celebrated by Muslims.
One way is by performing the Eid prayer - a special prayer in the morning - at the mosque
Muslim will perform that prayer to thank Allah for Ramadan's blessings.
Another way is by paying Zakhar which is giving charity.
This so that everyone is able to celebrate Eid.

Explain two different ways Ashura is celebrated by Muslims.
One way Sunni Muslims commemorate is by fasting
This is to remember how Allah saved prophet Musa from the Pharaoh who fasted to thank Allah
Another way Shia Muslims commemorate Ashura is by mourning the killing of Hussain.
They will express sadness in different ways e.g. wearing black

Explain two reasons why Jihad is important to Muslims. Refer to sacred writings or another source of belief and teaching in your answer.
One reason is because it involves all 5 pillars of Sunni Islam.
For example, the greater jihad involved in Salah is to pray on time.
Prophet Muhammad says, 'the greatest jihad is to struggle to fight the evil within you'.
This shows that Muslims have a daily struggle to follow the teachings of Islam.
Another reason is that it ensures the Muslim community is protected.
Lesser jihad allows Muslims to physically defend themselves against attack.

Explain two reasons why Id Ul Adha is importance to Muslims. Refer to sacred writings or another source of belief and teaching in your answer.
One reason is because it remembers the sacrifice of Ibrahim.
Muslims are reminded of the strong faith he showed in being willing to sacrifice his son, which was replaced by a lamb.
Prophet Muhammad said, This is why on this day, Muslims slaughter sacrifices.
This is why Muslims sacrifice a lamb on this day, to show Ibrahim’s faith.
Another reason is that it brings the Muslim community together as they celebrate together.
This means they will become more united towards Allah.

Explain two reasons why Ashura is importance to Muslims. Refer to sacred writings or another source of belief and teaching in your answer.

One reason is because it remembers an important person to Shia Muslims.
Hussein is one of their imams and they are able to show love towards him by honouring his death.
Prophet Muhammad says Allah loves the one who loves Hussein.
This shows that remembering Hussein on Ashura please Allah.
Another reason is that it is the day sins are forgiven by Allah.
Sunni Muslims believe it is the day of repentance and blessings.

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Explain two ways Muslims give alms

One way is through Zakah,which is 2.5% of wealth

This money is given to those in need.

Another way is through khums which involves Shia Muslims giving 20% of their savings

This is given to those in need and charitable causes

Explain two ways Muslims give Zakah
One way is by giving 2.5% of their wealth.
This goes to people in need, particularly vulnerable members of society.
Another way is by giving Zakah during Ramadan.
This is the time that many Muslims fast so are more aware of those in need.

Explain two ways a Muslims performs Hajj
One way is by circling the Kaaba 7 times together.
This symbolises unity.
Another way is by going to Mount Arafa for the whole day.
This is where Muslims ask Allah to forgive their sins.

Explain two reasons why almsgiving is important to Muslims. Refer to sacred writings or another source of authority in your answer
One reason is because Zakhar is a pillar in Sunni Islam
It reminds Muslims that everyone in the Muslim community needs to be taken care of.
For example, the Quran says that Zakhar is for the poor and needy.
This shows that Zakhar is a requirement for those who can afford it.
Another reason is that it purifies your wealth by giving money to those in need.
It reminds Muslims that Allah is the provider and all wealth belongs to Him.

Explain two reasons why Hajj is important to Muslims. Refer to sacred writings or another source of belief and teaching in your answer.
One reason is because Hajj is a pillar of Islam and one of the ten obligatory acts.
Therefore most Muslims are expected to go to it once in their lifetime if they can financially and physically.
The Quran says tell the people shall observe the Hajj pilgrimage.
This shows that Hajj is compulsory for Muslims
Another reason is that it is a spiritual journey to the House of Allah.
By travelling there, Muslims will feel connected to their religion.

Explain two reasons why Mecca is important to Muslims. Refer to sacred writings or another source of belief and teaching in your answer.
One reason is because the Kaaba is there which is the House of Allah.
Muslims will circle the Kaaba 7 times which is a number which symbolises completion.
The Quran says, 'Allah has made the Kaaba the sacred house.'
This shows that the Kaaba is the holiest building in Islam, which makes Mecca important
Another reason is that the birth place of Islam
This is because it is where Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation and began the religion.

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Explain two ways Muslims perform Salah.
One way is when performing ablution.
This is known as wudu, which involves washing specific body parts before praying.
Another way is by completing the rakkah which are prayer movements.
These involve standing, reciting, bowing, prostrating and kneeling

Explain two ways Muslims perform Friday prayer
One way is with others at the Mosque
Jummah prayer must be performed with a group of Muslims and not alone.
Another way is listening to the sermon.
Jummah prayer involves the Imam giving a speech about current Islamic issues.

Explain two ways Muslims practice saum
One way is by not eating, drinking and sexual relations.
This is done from sunrise to sunset during the month of Ramadan.
Another way is by staying away from sin because fasting allows Muslims more time to focus on Allah.
This means a Muslim tries to be the best Muslim they can.

Explain two ways Muslims practice the Night of Power
One way is by staying up at night.
Muslims may spend the night in prayer asking Allah to forgive their sins.
Another way is reading the Quran as Ramadan was when the Quran was revealed Muslims would read it all to receive blessings.

Explain two reasons why Salah is important to Muslims. You must refer to sacred writings or another source of belief and teaching in your answer.
One reason is because it is one of the five pillars of Sunni Islam and 10 obligatory acts in Shia Islam.
This means it is one of the main ways Muslims worship Allah.
Another reason is that it keeps Muslims away from sin.
When Muslims pray their five daily prayers, they are constantly reminded of Allah so would be aware of their actions.
The Quran says Salah keeps you away from immorality and wrongdoing.
This shows how prayer is important to help you be a good Muslim.

Explain two reasons why Jummah prayer is important to Muslims. Refer to sacred writings or another source of belief and teaching in your answer.
One reason is because it is done on a holy day which is Friday.
The Quran says, ‘when you are called to Jummah prayer, hasten to the remembrance of Allah.'
This shows that Muslims are expected to attend Jummah.
Another reason is that it brings the Muslim community together as Friday prayer must be done in congregation
As it is believed it is 27 times more powerful

Explain two reasons why fasting is important to Muslims. Refer to sacred writings or another source of belief and teaching in your answer.
One reason fasting is important to Muslims is because it's a pillar of Islam.
It is done in the holiest month, Ramadan, and it's seen as an important act of worship.
Another reason is that it makes Muslims more aware of Allah.
When fasting, they are constantly aware that Allah is watching them, so they would improve their behaviour.
The Quran says 'fasting makes you God conscious.'
This shows the main purpose of fasting is to build a strong connection with Allah.

Explain two reasons why the night of power important to Muslims. Refer to sacred writings or another source of belief and teaching in your answer.
One reason is because it is the night the Quran is revealed.
The Quran says read in the name of your Lord.
These were the first words revealed to Prophet Mohammed on this night.
This shows why the Quran is recited a lot on thi

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4-markers

Explain two ways the shahada is used by Muslims.

One way is to recite it if someone wishes to become a Muslim

They are expected to verbally say the Shahada to declare their faith.

Another way is to try to make the shahada their final words before death.

This is so that their faith is strong before they die

6 markers

Explain two reasons why the five pillars of Islam are important to Muslims. You must refer to sacred writings or another source of belief and teaching in your answer.

One reason is because the five pillars express Muslim beliefs.
The pillars of Islam express the belief in tawhid since they are acts of worship towards Allah.
Prophet Muhammad says Islam is built upon 5 things.
This shows that without the pillars the beliefs would be weak.
Another reason is that they give Muslim structure.
The pillars of Islam clearly guide Muslims on the duties they have to perform.

Explain two reasons why the shahada is important to Muslims. Refer to sacred writing or another source of belief and teaching in your answer.

One reason is because it is the first pillar of Islam and all the other pillars come from the Shahadah
Therefore, without believing in it a Muslim wouldn't perform the other pillars.
Another reason is that it emphasises two key Islamic beliefs.

The Shahada says there is no God except Allah and Muhammad is his messenger.
This shows that the Shahadah includes belief in tawhid and prophethood which is the foundation of Islam because all other beliefs come from these.

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GCSE RE Islam beliefs Predestination and Life After death

4-markers

Explain two ways that a belief in predestination influences Muslims.
One influence is to trust Allah's plan.
This is because Muslims believe that the Allah may have a better plan than one of the ones that made for themselves.
Another influence is to remember that nothing can happen without Allah's permission.
When they make a plan, they may use phrases like inshallah, if Allah wills, to show that Allah has ultimate control.

Explain two ways that a belief in human freedom influences Muslims.
One influence is to be accountable for the actions.

This is because they'll be judged alone for their deeds in the Akirah.

Another influence is to remember Judgement Day.

This will make them feel responsible for their actions as they all know they'll need to answer for them.

Explain two ways in which belief in Akirah influences Muslims.

One influence is to do good actions because Muslims believe their actions will be judged in the afterlife..
For example they will pray their daily prayers
Another influence is to avoid sin because they would not want to be punished for going against Allah's teachings.
For example they will try and avoid anything which is Haram

Explain two ways in which a belief in human responsibility influences Muslims.
One influence is to be accountable for their actions because they'll be judged alone for their deeds
This will be written down in the book of deeds
Another influence is to remember Judgement Day.
This will make them feel responsible for their actions as they will know they need to answer for them.

6-markers

Explain two Muslim teachings about predestination. Refer to sacred writings or another source of belief and teaching in your answer
One belief is that everything happens that happens is decided by Allah already
It's one of the six articles of faith in Sunni Islam.
Another belief is that Allah knows the future, but we have free will.
Many Muslims believe that Allah does not force us to make any decision even though He knows what we will choose.
The Quran says “Indeed, all things We created with predestination".
This shows Allah is all knowing and has a plan for everything

Explain two Muslim teachings about human freedom. Refer to sacred writings or another source of belief and teaching in your answer

One belief is that humans have control over their thoughts, feeling and actions.
Muslims believe that Allah has given us this so that we can be free to make our choices.
Another belief is that human freedom shows Allah's justice.
The Quran says; 'let whoever wants to believe and let those who wants to disbelieve.'
This shows a lot allows humans to believe or not because for a lot of judge humans fairly on judgement day there needs to be human freedom.

Explain two Muslim teachings about the resurrection. Refer to sacred writing or another source of belief and teaching in your answer.
One belief is that it is one of the six articles of faith in Sunni Islam and five roots of a Usul Ad Din in Shia Islam.
It is the belief that every human will be raised from the dead on judgement day
Another belief is that Allah will raise the dead, all the dead.
This will happen on Judgement day, which will be marked by angels blowing the trumpet.
The Q

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