Religious Studies

Teachers

• Rabbi Y. Sliw (Co-ordinator)
• Rabbi A. Y. Cohen
• Rabbi M. Cohen
• Rabbi M. Taubman
• Mr D. Sudwarts

KS4

Years 9-11 (GCSE)

This course is delivered as part of the Jewish Studies curriculum and is designed to provide students with a knowledge and understanding of many key elements of Judaism. This includes an evaluation of the perspective of Judaism on many contemporary issues.

The GCSE contains two modules: Judaism and Jewish Texts. This includes the study of the principal expressions of Jewish practice, an introduction to the role of ethics and morality in Judaism, and more detailed analysis of selected texts from the Torah, Pirkei Avos and the Siddur. The course encourages debate and discussion of vital modern issues, including advances in medical practice, the continuing relevance of the Holocaust and the importance of the State of Israel.

Post 16

This course provides students with a unique opportunity to study and appreciate the tremendous moral and rational strength of Judaism in the light of the various conceptual challenges it has met and dealt with throughout its history.

The course is modular and A/S is free-standing. There is no coursework element. All units are examined in English and the ability to translate is not required. Although a Grade A at GCSE in Religious Studies is an advantage, it is not an essential requirement for acceptance onto the course. Students should have achieved a grade B or higher in GCSE English Language.

The OCR specification is followed, focusing on Module G573 - Jewish scriptures I and Module G579 - Judaism I at A/S Level, and Module G583 - Jewish Scriptures II and Module G589 - Judaism II at A2 Level.

Year 12 (A/S)

Jewish Scriptures I places the Biblical period into its historic setting and analyses the different literary styles of the Biblical texts. It examines a range of specific Biblical texts with a view to understanding the development of the concept of covenant from the creation to the messianic period, the nature of suffering in the light of our belief in G-D's ultimate justice and the significance of the prophetic messages of Elijah.

Judaism I provides a general introduction to the origins, content and purpose of the Tenach and the Talmud. It considers the nature of monotheism and the concept of the Chosen People, highlighting the practical application of these principles in the modern world. Study then focuses on a number of specific issues particularly relevant to modern Jewish practice. This includes an appreciation of the complementary roles of men and women, the development of prayer, both private and public, from earliest times and an appreciation of the concept of the law and the manner of its application in Jewish life.

Year 13 (A2)

In Year 13, students move on to more advanced textual and conceptual studies. In Jewish Scriptures II, the emphasis is on selected texts from Later Prophets, specialising in the themes of social justice and reward and punishment. There is also an opportunity for in-depth study of Megillat Ruth and selected texts from Ketuvim.

Judaism II concentrates on four of the most important issues of controversy in Jewish life today: the Messianic concept; the religious significance of the State of Israel; the continuing influence of the Nazi Holocaust; and an understanding of the different ideological divisions within Judaism today.