GCSE

AQA GCSE Religious Studies Revision

Adaptive practice aligned to the Assessment and Qualifications Alliance specification. 8 topics, exam-style questions, and instant AI feedback.

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About AQA GCSE Religious Studies

AQA is the largest exam board in England, setting GCSE and A-Level exams taken by millions of students each year. Known for clear mark schemes and well-structured specifications across all major subjects.

GCSE Religious Studies (RS) covers the beliefs, teachings, and practices of at least two religions, alongside ethical and philosophical themes such as relationships, life and death, peace and conflict, crime and punishment, and human rights.

Topics in AQA GCSE Religious Studies

1 Christian Beliefs

2 Islamic Beliefs

3 Marriage & Family

4 Matters of Life & Death

5 Peace & Conflict

6 Crime & Punishment

7 Human Rights

8 Philosophical Arguments

Study Tips for AQA Religious Studies

Learn key quotations from sacred texts for each topic. Having two or three precise quotations per theme — for example, a Bible verse on forgiveness or a Quran passage on justice — makes your arguments much more convincing.

For each ethical topic, prepare arguments from at least two religious perspectives and one non-religious perspective (such as humanism or utilitarianism). This ensures you can answer any question from multiple angles.

Use the structure: belief, teaching, example, application. For instance, state what a religion believes, quote the teaching that supports it, give an example of how it is practised, then explain how it applies to the issue in the question.

Create comparison grids for each topic showing similarities and differences between the two religions you study. This saves time in the exam and helps you see connections.

Exam Tips for AQA Religious Studies

For the 12-mark evaluation questions, always include arguments for and against, referencing religious and non-religious viewpoints. End with a clear conclusion that is justified by the arguments you have made, rather than just stating your opinion.

Do not confuse describe with explain. If asked to describe a practice, say what happens. If asked to explain, say why it happens and what it means to believers.

Use precise religious terminology — say atonement rather than making up for things, or stewardship rather than looking after the world. The correct terms show the examiner you understand the concepts at a deeper level.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many papers are in GCSE Religious Studies?

Most exam boards have two papers. Paper 1 typically covers the study of religions (beliefs, teachings, and practices) and Paper 2 covers thematic/ethical studies. Each paper is usually around 1 hour 45 minutes.

Do I have to be religious to take GCSE RS?

Not at all. The course is academic, not devotional. You study religions from an analytical perspective. Many students with no religious background do extremely well because the subject rewards critical thinking and clear argument.

Which religions do I study?

This depends on your school and exam board. The most common combination is Christianity and Islam, but some schools offer Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, or Sikhism. You will study two religions in detail.

Is GCSE RS an easy subject?

RS requires strong essay-writing skills and detailed knowledge of religious teachings. It is not a soft option. However, if you enjoy debating ideas and can construct clear arguments, it is a very achievable and rewarding GCSE.