Sixth Form Course Booklet 2013 - Bromsgrove School

RS: PHILOSOPHY, ETHICS AND BIBLICAL STUDIES
WHY STUDY RS: PHILOSOPHY, ETHICS AND BIBLICAL STUDIES?
At its best, RS: Philosophy, Ethics and Biblical Studies is a varied and demanding discipline that has the potential to
capture the imagination and develop the enquiring mind. We seek to nurture a spirit of intellectual curiosity through
challenging accepted norms and enquiring into the capacity of human reason and understanding. Our approach is nonconfessional,
critical, and academic although students often engage with ultimate questions on a fundamental and
personal level.
AIMS OF THE COURSE
We aim to provide an academic and rigorous way of engaging with philosophy, ethics and religion. We seek to consider
ultimate questions of life, providing the necessary language and literacy for dealing with philosophical and religious
enquiry and experience. We think that many ideas are more interesting than one; detailed arguments are more
challenging than ill-considered views; intellectual risk taking is more inspiring than treading the well-worn path of
academic safety. This course aims to uphold these ideals.
SKILLS NEEDED FOR AND DEVELOPED IN THE COURSE
A commitment to think deeply and precisely.
The skill to select and use evidence appropriately.
The ability to analyse and critically evaluate arguments.
Clarity of expression in written and oral communication.
Self motivation in reading, research and independent study.
A willingness to investigate and interpret philosophical and religious concepts.
REQUIREMENTS FOR STARTING THE COURSE
Students of Philosophy, Ethics and Biblical Studies will have a genuine interest in asking questions: questions of
meaning and purpose concerning the universe and human existence. They will enjoy discovering the ideas of others
and drawing conclusions of their own. Grade B or above in GCSE English and/or Religious Studies would be
advantageous. For students new to the school, it is possible to study this course at Sixth Form level without having
taken a GCSE course in Religious Studies.
Course followed: Religious Studies
Examination Board: Edexcel
CONTENT OF THE COURSE UNITS
AS UNIT 1 – FOUNDATIONS
PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION
THE FOURTH GOSPEL
Why is there something rather than nothing?
“I am the Way”… to where?
Using the cosmos to prove the existence of God.
A critical examination of the ‘I am’ sayings of Jesus.
Design always implies a designer: Really?
Miracles are simply signs, nothing more.
Proving God’s existence through beauty and design. A study of the meaning and significance of the miracles.
A God who allows man to suffer is not worthy of Women should be seen and not heard.
worship.
An investigation into Jesus’ relationship with women.
Encountering evil/Justifying God: A critical investigation.
Miracles: A logical contradiction?
A study of the acceptance and rejection of miracles.
Follow the Light wherever it leads.
An analysis of the nature and demands of discipleship.
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