IGCSEQuestion Bank

Exam Questions & Mark Schemes Bank
Updated Feb 2022 Edited by MB
Table of Contents
PAST PAPERS (WITHOUT MARK SCHEMES)..................................................................................... 5
PAPER 1: 2019..................................................................................................................................5
PAPER 1: 2020..................................................................................................................................7
PAPER 1: 2021..................................................................................................................................8
PAPER 1: 2022..................................................................................................................................9
PAPER 2: 2019................................................................................................................................10
PAPER 2: 2020................................................................................................................................11
PAPER 2: 2021................................................................................................................................11
PAPER 2: 2022................................................................................................................................12
GENERIC MARK SCHEMES............................................................................................................. 12
PAPER ONE: BELIEFS AND VALUES................................................................................................ 15
THE UNIVERSE, CREATION AND THE PLACE OF HUMAN BEINGS...................................................................15

IDENTIFY THREE EXAMPLES OF SELFISHNESS (3) (2019)...................................................................................15
IDENTIFY THREE WAYS HUMANS CAN PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT. (3) (2019)...................................................15
IDENTIFY THREE CHARACTERISTICS OF GOD. (3) (2020)..................................................................................15
IDENTIFY THREE RIGHTS ANIMALS SHOULD HAVE. (3) (2020)...........................................................................15
IDENTIFY THREE ROOT CAUSES OF WRONGDOING. (3) (2021)..........................................................................15
IDENTIFY THREE REASONS WHY SOME PEOPLE DO NOT BELIEVE IN GOD. (3) (2021).............................................15
IDENTIFY THREE BELIEFS ABOUT PREDESTINATION. (3) (2022)..........................................................................16
OUTLINE THREE POSSIBLE RESPONSES TO SUFFERING. (3) (2022)......................................................................16
OUTLINE TWO REASONS WHY SOME PEOPLE ARE ATHEISTS. (4) (2019)..............................................................16
OUTLINE TWO RELIGIOUS BELIEFS ABOUT FREE WILL. (4) (2019)......................................................................16
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. OUTLINE TWO WAYS ITS FOLLOWERS SHOULD TREAT ANIMALS. (4) (2020)........................16
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. OUTLINE TWO BELIEFS ABOUT THE IMMORTALITY OF THE SOUL IN THIS RELIGION. (4) (2020)17
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. OUTLINE TWO REASONS WHY ITS FOLLOWERS BELIEVE THEY HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY TO LOOK
AFTER THE WORLD. (4) (2021)..................................................................................................................17
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. OUTLINE TWO WAYS ITS FOLLOWERS EXPLAIN THE EXISTENCE OF EVIL AND SUFFERING. (4)
(2021)..................................................................................................................................................17
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. OUTLINE TWO BELIEFS ABOUT THE ORIGIN OF THE UNIVERSE IN THIS RELIGION. (4) (2022)...17
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. OUTLINE TWO OF ITS BELIEFS THAT MAY GIVE LIFE PURPOSE. (4) (2022)...........................17
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION AND EXPLAIN HOW ITS FOLLOWERS EXPLAIN THE EXISTENCE OF SUFFERING IN THE WORLD. (6)
(2019)..................................................................................................................................................18
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION AND EXPLAIN WHAT ITS FOLLOWERS BELIEVE ABOUT THE CREATION OF THE UNIVERSE. (6)
(2019)..................................................................................................................................................18
EXPLAIN NON-RELIGIOUS BELIEFS ABOUT FREE WILL. (6) (2020).......................................................................18
EXPLAIN THE CAUSES OF HUMAN WRONGDOING. (6) (2020)...........................................................................18
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EXPLAIN HOW RELIGIOUS PEOPLE MAY RESPOND TO THE PROBLEM OF EVIL AND SUFFERING.. (6) (2021).................18
EXPLAIN RELIGIOUS BELIEFS ABOUT IMMORTALITY. (6) (2021).........................................................................19
EXPLAIN WHY SOME PEOPLE BELIEVE THERE IS MORE THAN ONE GOD. (6) (2022)...............................................19
EXPLAIN WHY SOME PEOPLE BELIEVE THERE IS NOTHING MORE THAN THE PHYSICAL WORLD. (6) (2022)..................19
“THERE IS ONLY ONE GOD’ EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2019)................................................................................19
“EVERYONE HAS AN IMMORTAL SOUL.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2019)................................................................20
“EVERYONE SUFFERS; THEREFORE GOD CANNOT EXIST.”EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2020)...........................................20
“THERE IS NO PROOF THAT GOD EXISTS.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2020).............................................................20
“THERE IS MORE TO LIFE THAN THE PHYSICAL WORLD.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2021)...........................................21
“HUMANS ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAN ANIMALS.”EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2021)................................................21
“HUMANS WILL ALWAYS CAUSE CONFLICT.”EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2022)...........................................................21
“GOD IS THE ONLY POSSIBLE REASON THE WORLD EXISTS.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2022).......................................22
LIFE AND DEATH...............................................................................................................................23
IDENTIFY THREE REASONS WHY RELIGIOUS PEOPLE BELIEVE IN LIFE AFTER DEATH. (3) (2019).................................23
IDENTIFY THREE POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES OF DIVORCE. (3) (2019)..................................................................23
IDENTIFY THREE NON-RELIGIOUS IDEAS ABOUT THE MEANING AND PURPOSE OF LIFE.. (3) (2020)...........................23
IDENTIFY THREE RIGHTS CHILDREN SHOULD HAVE. (3) (2020)..........................................................................23
IDENTIFY THREE THINGS THE LAW SAYS ABOUT ABORTION IN ONE NAMED COUNTRY. (3) (2021)............................23
IDENTIFY THREE PURPOSES OF SEXUAL RELATIONSHIPS. (3) (2021)....................................................................23
IDENTIFY THREE ATTITUDES TO COHABITATION. (3) (2022)..............................................................................24
IDENTIFY THREE ATTITUDES TO REMARRIAGE. (3) (2022)................................................................................24
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. EXPLAIN TWO REASONS WHY ITS FOLLOWERS BELIEVE IT IS IMPORTANT TO REDUCE SUFFERING.
(4) (2019).............................................................................................................................................24
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. OUTLINE TWO ATTITUDES ITS FOLLOWERS HOLD ABOUT SEX OUTSIDE MARRIAGE. (4) (2019)24
OUTLINE TWO REASONS WHY SOME PEOPLE DECIDE NOT TO HAVE CHILDREN. (4) (2020).....................................24
OUTLINE TWO DIFFERENT ATTITUDES TO HOMOSEXUALITY. (4) (2020)..............................................................24
OUTLINE TWO RELIGIOUS BELIEFS ABOUT THE MEANING AND PURPOSE OF LIFE. (4) (2021)...................................25
OUTLINE TWO DIFFERING ATTITUDES TO EUTHANASIA. (4) (2021)....................................................................25
OUTLINE TWO BELIEFS ABOUT THE CONSEQUENCES OF CAUSE AND EFFECT ON LIFE AFTER DEATH. (4) (2022)...........25
OUTLINE TWO NON-RELIGIOUS BELIEFS ABOUT THE MEANING AND PURPOSE OF LIFE. (4) (2022)...........................25
EXPLAIN THE DIFFERING ATTITUDES OF RELIGIOUS PEOPLE TO THE ISSUE OF CHILDLESSNESS. (6) (2019)...................25
EXPLAIN WHY FAMILY LIFE IS IMPORTANT FOR MANY RELIGIOUS PEOPLE. (6) (2019)............................................26
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. EXPLAIN THE ATTITUDES ITS FOLLOWERS HAVE TOWARDS DIVORCE. (6) (2020)..................26
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. EXPLAIN THE ATTITUDES ITS FOLLOWERS MAY HAVE TOWARDS ABORTION. (6) (2020).........26
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. EXPLAIN WHY FAMILY LIFE IS IMPORTANT TO ITS FOLLOWERS. (6) (2021)..........................26
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. EXPLAIN WHAT ITS FOLLOWERS BELIEVE ABOUT FERTILITY TREATMENTS. (6) (2021)............27
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. EXPLAIN THE BELIEFS ITS FOLLOWERS MAY HAVE ABOUT EUTHANASIA. (6) (2022)...............27
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. EXPLAIN WHAT ITS FOLLOWERS BELIEVE ABOUT THE PURPOSE OF MARRIAGE. (6) (2022).....27
“IN ORDER FOR LIFE TO HAVE MEANING AND PURPOSE A PERSON MUST BE RELIGIOUS.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2019) 27
“HETEROSEXUAL RELATIONSHIPS ARE THE BEST MODEL FOR SOCIETY.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2019)........................28
“IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF A FAMILY TO LOOK AFTER THEIR ELDERLY RELATIVES.”EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2020).......28
“NO-ONE SHOULD HAVE SEX OUTSIDE OF MARRIAGE.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2020)............................................28
“ATTITUDES TO SAME SEX RELATIONSHIPS ARE CHANGING.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2021).....................................29
RELIGIOUS PEOPLE SHOULD NEVER DIVORCE.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2021)........................................................29
“ALL RELIGIOUS PEOPLE SHOULD HAVE CHILDREN.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2022).................................................29
“A NUCLEAR FAMILY IS THE BEST MODEL FOR SOCIETY.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2022)..........................................30
PEACE AND CONFLICT........................................................................................................................31
IDENTIFY THREE TYPES OF BULLYING. (3) (2019)...........................................................................................31
IDENTIFY THREE THINGS A RELIGIOUS ORGANISATION MAY DO TO WORK FOR PEACE. (3) (2019)............................31
IDENTIFY THREE PURPOSES FOR THE DEATH PENALTY. (3) (2020)......................................................................31
IDENTIFY THREE CAUSES OF CONFLICT. (3) (2020).........................................................................................31
IDENTIFY THREE CRIMES. (3) (2021)...........................................................................................................31
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IDENTIFY THREE WAYS RELIGIOUS ORGANISATIONS MAY WORK FOR WORLD PEACE. (3) (2021)..............................31
IDENTIFY THREE POSSIBLE RESPONSES TO BULLYING. (3) (2022).......................................................................32
IDENTIFY THREE SINS. (3) (2022)...............................................................................................................32
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. OUTLINE TWO CONTRASTING ATTITUDES TOWARDS WAR HELD BY ITS FOLLOWERS. (4) (2019)
............................................................................................................................................................32
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. EXPLAIN TWO REASONS WHY ITS FOLLOWERS BELIEVE BULLYING IS WRONG. (4) (2019).......32
OUTLINE TWO TYPES OF SINS AND THEIR CONSEQUENCES. (4) (2020)...............................................................32
OUTLINE TWO REASONS WHY SOME NON-RELIGIOUS PEOPLE ARE OPPOSED TO CAPITAL PUNISHMENT. (4) (2020).....32
OUTLINE TWO REASONS WHY SOCIETY MAY NEED TO PUNISH OFFENDERS. (4) (2021)..........................................33
OUTLINE TWO REASONS WHY SOME NON-RELIGIOUS PEOPLE SUPPORT CAPITAL PUNISHMENT. (4) (2021)................33
OUTLINE TWO RELIGIOUS ATTITUDES TO THE IMPORTANCE OF PEACE. (4) (2022)................................................33
OUTLINE TWO RELIGIOUS ATTITUDES TOWARDS THE AIMS OF PUNISHMENT. (4) (2022).......................................33
EXPLAIN WHY SOME PEOPLE THINK REFORM IS THE MOST IMPORTANT AIM OF PUNISHMENT. (6) (2019).................33
EXPLAIN THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN SINS AND CRIMES. (6) (2019)..................................................................34
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. EXPLAIN THE ATTITUDES TO PUNISHMENT IN THIS RELIGION. (6) (2020)............................34
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. EXPLAIN THE TEACHINGS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF FORGIVENESS IN THIS RELIGION. (6)
(2020)..................................................................................................................................................34
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. EXPLAIN WHY ITS FOLLOWERS DO NOT AGREE WITH BULLYING. (6) (2021)........................34
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. EXPLAIN ITS TEACHINGS ABOUT WAR. (6) (2021).........................................................35
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. EXPLAIN WHY ITS FOLLOWERS DO NOT AGREE WITH BULLYING. (6) (2022)........................35
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. EXPLAIN THE IMPORTANCE OF FORGIVENESS IN THIS RELIGION. (6) (2022)........................35
“CAPITAL PUNISHMENT IS NEVER JUSTIFIED.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2019).........................................................35
“ALL RELIGIOUS PEOPLE SHOULD OPPOSE CONFLICT.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2019)..............................................36
“ALL RELIGIOUS PEOPLE SHOULD BE PACIFISTS.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2020).....................................................36
“ALL SINS SHOULD BE CRIMES.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2020)..........................................................................36
“RELIGION IS THE BEST HOPE FOR WORLD PEACE.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2021)..................................................36
“CRIMES ARE WORSE THAN SINS.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2021).......................................................................37
“RELIGION IS THE BEST HOPE FOR WORLD PEACE.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2022)..................................................37
“THE DEATH PENALTY MAY BE THE LESSER OF TWO EVILS.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2022)......................................37
RIGHTS, EQUALITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE.................................................................................................39
IDENTIFY THREE WAYS RELIGIOUS PEOPLE MAY PROMOTE THE DEVELOPMENT OF A MULTI-FAITH SOCIETY. (3) (2019) 39
IDENTIFY THREE WAYS WOMEN’S RIGHTS HAVE IMPROVED IN SOCIETY. (3) (2019)...............................................39
IDENTIFY THREE EXAMPLES OF DISCRIMINATION. (3) (2020)............................................................................39
IDENTIFY THREE PRACTICAL WAYS RELIGIOUS PEOPLE CAN HELP THE POOR. (3) (2020).........................................39
IDENTIFY THREE WAYS RELIGIOUS PEOPLE MAY SUPPORT HUMAN RIGHTS. (3) (2021)...........................................39
IDENTIFY THREE WAYS SOCIETY COULD SUPPORT THE POOR. (3) (2021).............................................................39
IDENTIFY THREE RELIGIOUS ATTITUDES TO PROSELYTISATION. (3) (2022)............................................................40
IDENTIFY THREE REASONS WHY SOME RELIGIOUS PEOPLE MAY NOT SUPPORT HUMAN RIGHTS. (3) (2022)................40
OUTLINE TWO EXAMPLES OF RACIAL HARMONY IN SOCIETY. (4) (2019).............................................................40
OUTLINE TWO NON-RELIGIOUS BELIEFS ABOUT THE TREATMENT OF THE POOR. (4) (2019)....................................40
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. OUTLINE TWO REASONS WHY MANY OF ITS FOLLOWERS SUPPORT HUMAN RIGHTS. (4) (2020)
............................................................................................................................................................40
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. EXPLAIN TWO OF ITS ATTITUDES TOWARDS THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN SOCIETY. (4) (2020)....41
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. OUTLINE TWO ATTITUDES ITS FOLLOWERS MAY HAVE TOWARDS PEOPLE OF OTHER RELIGIONS.
(4) (2021).............................................................................................................................................41
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. OUTLINE TWO ATTITUDES ITS FOLLOWERS MAY HAVE TOWARDS LIVING IN A MULTI-FAITH
SOCIETY. (4) (2021)................................................................................................................................41
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. OUTLINE TWO RESPONSIBILITIES ITS FOLLOWERS HAVE IN A MULTI ETHNIC SOCIETY. (4) (2022)
............................................................................................................................................................41
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION. OUTLINE TWO ATTITUDES ITS FOLLOWERS MAY HOLD TOWARDS INTERFAITH RELATIONSHIPS. (4)
(2022)..................................................................................................................................................41
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION AND EXPLAIN WHAT ITS FOLLOWERS BELIEVE ABOUT THE STATUS OF WOMEN. (6) (2019).....42
3
CHOOSE ONE RELIGION AND EXPLAIN WHY SOME OF ITS FOLLOWERS SUPPORT HUMAN RIGHTS. (6) (2019)..............42
EXPLAIN DIFFERENT RELIGIOUS ATTITUDES TO LIVING IN A MULTI-FAITH SOCIETY. (6) (2020).................................42
EXPLAIN WHY RELIGIOUS PEOPLE MAY DISAGREE WITH SOME HUMAN RIGHTS. (6) (2020).....................................42
EXPLAIN NON-RELIGIOUS ATTITUDES TO RACIAL HARMONY. (6) (2021)..............................................................42
EXPLAIN THE RESPONSES RELIGIOUS PEOPLE MAY HAVE TO CHANGES IN WOMEN’S ROLE IN SOCIETY. (6) (2021).......43
EXPLAIN RELIGIOUS ATTITUDES TO THE TREATMENT OF THE POOR. (6) (2022)....................................................43
EXPLAIN THE RESPONSIBILITIES MANY RELIGIOUS PEOPLE BELIEVE THEY HAVE TO THE POOR. (6) (2022)...................43
“IT IS MORE IMPORTANT TO WORK FOR JUSTICE THAN GIVE CHARITY.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2019).......................43
“RELIGIOUS PEOPLE ARE THE BEST HOPE FOR RACIAL HARMONY.” (12) (2019)...................................................44
“WOMEN SHOULD BE RELIGIOUS LEADERS.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2020)..........................................................44
“PREJUDICE AND DISCRIMINATION ARE THE BIGGEST PROBLEMS FACING SOCIETY TODAY.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2020)
............................................................................................................................................................44
“RELIGIONS ARE BIASED IN FAVOUR OF MEN.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2021).......................................................45
RELIGIOUS PEOPLE SHOULD UPHOLD ALL HUMAN RIGHTS.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2021).......................................45
“WOMEN AND MEN SHOULD BE EQUAL IN ALL THINGS.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2022)..........................................45
“DISABLED PEOPLE HAVE THE SAME RIGHTS AS OTHERS IN SOCIETY.” EVALUATE ETC. (12) (2022)..........................46
PAPER 2: RELIGIOUS COMMUNITY: ISLAM....................................................................................47
ORIGINS AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE COMMUNITY....................................................................................47

OUTLINE TWO EVENTS THAT OCCURRED WHEN THE QUR’AN WAS REVEALED TO THE PROPHET MUHAMMAD. (4)
(2019)..................................................................................................................................................47
OUTLINE TWO TEACHINGS FROM THE PROPHET MUHAMMAD’S FINAL SERMON. (4) (2020)..................................47
OUTLINE TWO ROLES OF THE ULEMA FOR MUSLIMS TODAY. (4) (2021)............................................................47
OUTLINE TWO WAYS MUSIMS SHOW RESPECT FOR THE QUR’AN.. (4) (2022)....................................................47
EXPLAIN WHY THE IMAM IS IMPORTANT IN SUNNI COMMUNITIES. (6) (2019).....................................................47
EXPLAIN THE IMPORTANCE OF THE QUR’AN FOR MUSLIMS. (6) (2020).............................................................48
EXPLAIN THE IMPORTANCE OF MUHAMMAD AS ‘SEAL OF THE PROPHETS’. (6) (2021)..........................................48
EXPLAIN THE IMPORTANCE OF THE RIGHTLY-GUIDED CALIPHS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF SUNNI ISLAM. (6) (2022). 48
“THE PROPHET MUHAMMAD IS THE ONLY TEACHER A MUSLIM NEEDS.” DISCUSS ETC. (10) (2019).......................48
“THE IMAM IS AN IMPORTANT LEADER FOR SUNNI MUSLIMS.” DISCUSS ETC. (10) (2020)....................................49
“THE RIGHTLY-GUIDED CALIPHS WERE ESSENTIAL TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF ISLAM..” DISCUSS ETC. (10) (2021).....49
“THE PRINCIPLES OF IJMA AND QIYYAS ARE ESSENTIAL FOR A COMPLETE UNDERSTANDING OF MUSLIM TEACHING.”
DISCUSS ETC. (10) (2022)........................................................................................................................49
CELEBRATION AND PILGRIMAGE...........................................................................................................51
OUTLINE TWO PRACTICES ASSOCIATED WITH HAJJ. (4) (2019).........................................................................51
OUTLINE TWO FEATURES OF THE CELEBRATION OF EID-UL-ADHA. (4) (2020).....................................................51
OUTLINE TWO WAYS IN WHICH MADINAH IS IMPORTANT FOR MUSLIMS. (4) (2021)...........................................51
OUTLINE TWO WAYS IN WHICH MAKKAH IS SIGNIFICANT FOR MUSLIMS. (4) (2022)............................................51
EXPLAIN WHY MADINAH IS IMPORTANT FOR MUSLIMS. (6) (2019)..................................................................51
EXPLAIN THE IMPORTANCE OF MAKKAH FOR MUSLIMS. (6) (2020)..................................................................52
EXPLAIN THE IMPORTANCE OF EID-UL-FITR FOR MUSLIMS. (6) (2021)..............................................................52
EXPLAIN THE IMPORTANCE OF THE HAJJ FOR MUSLIMS. (6) (2022)..................................................................52
“EID UL-FITR IS THE MOST IMPORTANT MUSLIM FESTIVAL.” DISCUSS ETC. (10) (2019).......................................52
“MADINAH IS THE MOST IMPORTANT CITY FOR MUSLIMS.” DISCUSS ETC. (10) (2020)........................................52
“ALL MUSLIMS SHOULD VISIT MAKKAH DURING THEIR LIFETIME.” DISCUSS ETC. (10) (2021)................................53
“EID UL-ADHA IS THE MOST IMPORTANT MUSLIM FESTIVAL.” DISCUSS ETC. (10) (2022).....................................53
WORSHIP AND PRACTICE....................................................................................................................54
OUTLINE TWO PRACTICES ASSOCIATED WITH JUM’A PRAYERS. (4) (2019)..........................................................54
OUTLINE TWO INTERNAL FEATURES OF A MOSQUE. (4) (2020)........................................................................54
OUTLINE TWO WAYS MOSQUES ARE USED BY MUSLIMS TODAY. (4) (2021).......................................................54
4
OUTLINE TWO FEATURES OF MUSLIM BIRTH CEREMONIES. (4) (2022)..............................................................54
EXPLAIN WHY THE FIVE DAILY PRAYERS ARE IMPORTANT TO MUSLIMS. (6) (2019)...............................................54
EXPLAIN THE IMPORTANCE OF THE MARRIAGE CEREMONY FOR MUSLIMS. (6) (2020)..........................................55
EXPLAIN THE IMPORTANCE OF JUM’A PRAYERS FOR MUSLIMS TODAY. (6) (2021)...............................................55
EXPLAIN WHY THE DESIGN OF MOSQUES MAY DIFFER FROM ONE MUSLIM COMMUNITY TO ANOTHER. (6) (2022).....55
“THE MOST IMPORTANT PURPOSE OF A MOSQUE IS AS A PLACE OF WORSHIP.” DISCUSS ETC. (10) (2019)...............55
“MOSQUES ARE ESSENTIAL TO MUSLIM COMMUNITIES.” DISCUSS ETC. (10) (2020)...........................................55
“FOR MUSLIMS, BIRTH CEREMONIES ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAN DEATH RITUALS.” DISCUSS ETC. (10) (2021).......56
“FOR MUSLIMS, WORSHIP AT HOME IS JUST AS IMPORTANT AS WORSHIP IN A MOSQUE..” DISCUSS ETC. (10) (2022)
............................................................................................................................................................56
Past Papers (without mark schemes)

Paper 1: 2019
The Universe, Creation and Human Destiny
5
1.
a) Identify three examples of selfishness (3)
b) Outline two reasons why some people are atheists. (4)
c) Choose one religion and explain how its followers explain the existence of
suffering in the world. (6)
d) “There is only one God’ Evaluate etc. (12)
2.
a) Identify three ways humans can protect the environment. (3)
b) Outline two religious beliefs about free will. (4)
c) Choose one religion and explain what its followers believe about the creation of the
universe. (6)
d) “Everyone has an immortal soul.” Evaluate etc. (12)
Life and Death

3.
a) Identify three reasons why religious people believe in life after death. (30
b) Choose one religion. Explain two reasons why its followers believe it is important
to reduce suffering. (4)
c) Explain the differing attitudes of religious people to the issue of childlessness. (6)
d) “In order for life to have meaning and purpose a person must be religious.”
Evalute etc. (12)
4.
a) Identify three possible consequences of divorce.
b) Choose one religion. Outline two attitudes its followers hold about sex outside
marriage. (4)
c) Explain why family life is important for many religious people. (6)
d) “Heterosexual relationships are the best model for society.” Evaluate etc. (12)
Peace and Conflict

5.
a) Identify three types of bullying. (3)
b) Choose one religion. Outline two contrasting attitudes towards war held by its
followers. (4)
c) Explain why some people think reform is the most important aim of punishment.
(6)
d) “Capital punishment is never justified.” Evaluate etc. (12)
6.
a) Identify three things a religious organisation may do to work for peace. (3)
b) Choose one religion. Explain two reasons why its followers believe bullying is
wrong. (4)
c) Explain the differences between sins and crimes. (6)
d) “All religious people should oppose conflict.” Evaluate etc. (12)
Rights, Equality and Social Justice

7.
a) Identify three ways religious people may promote the development of a multi-
faith society. (3)
6
b) Outline two examples of racial harmony in society. (4)
c) Choose one religion and explain what its followers believe about the status of
women. (6)
d) “It is more important to work for justice than give charity.” Evaluate etc. (12)
8.
a) Identify three ways women’s rights have improved in society. (3)
b) Outline two non-religious beliefs about the treatment of the poor. (4)
c) Choose one religion and explain why some of its followers support human rights.
(6)
d) “Religious people are the best hope for racial harmony.” (12)
Paper 1: 2020
1.
a) Identify three characteristics of God. (3)
b) Choose one religion. Outline two ways its followers should treat animals. (4)
c) Explain non-religious beliefs about free will. (6)
d) “Everyone suffers; therefore God cannot exist.”Evaluate etc. (12)
2.
a) Identify three rights animals should have. (3)
b) Choose one religion. Outline two beliefs about the immortality of the soul in this
religion. (4)
c) Explain the causes of human wrongdoing. (6)

d) “There is no proof that God exists.” Evaluate etc. (12)
Life and Death

3.
a) Identify three non-religious ideas about the meaning and purpose of life.. (3)
b) Outline two reasons why some people decide not to have children. (4)
c) Choose one religion. Explain the attitudes its followers have towards divorce. (6)
d) “It is the responsibility of a family to look after their elderly relatives.”Evaluate
etc. (12)
4.
e) Identify three rights children should have. (3)
f) Outline two different attitudes to homosexuality. (4)

g) Choose one religion. Explain the attitudes its followers may have towards
abortion. (6)
h) “No-one should have sex outside of marriage.” Evaluate etc. (12)
Peace and Conflict

5.
a) Identify three purposes for the death penalty. (3)
b) Outline two types of sins and their consequences. (4)

c) Choose one religion. Explain the attitudes to punishment in this religion. (6)
d) “All religious people should be pacifists.” Evaluate etc. (12)
6.
a) Identify three causes of conflict. (3)
b) Outline two reasons why some non-religious people are opposed to capital
punishment. (4)
7
c) Choose one religion. Explain the teachings about the importance of forgiveness in
this religion. (6)
d) “All sins should be crimes.” Evaluate etc. (12)

7.
a) Identify three examples of discrimination. (3)
b) Choose one religion. Outline two reasons why many of its followers support
human rights. (4)
c) Explain different religious attitudes to living in a multi-faith society. (6)

d) “Women should be religious leaders.” Evaluate etc. (12)
8.
a) Identify three practical ways religious people can help the poor. (3)
b) Choose one religion. Explain two of its attitudes towards the role of women in
society. (4)
c) Explain why religious people may disagree with some human rights. (6)
d) “Prejudice and discrimination are the biggest problems facing society today.”
Evaluate etc. (12)
Paper 1: 2021
1.
a) Identify three root causes of wrongdoing. (3) (2021)
b) Choose one religion. Outline two reasons why its followers believe they have a
responsibility to look after the world. (4) (2021)
c) Explain how religious people may respond to the problem of evil and suffering..
(6) (2021)
d) “There is more to life than the physical world.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)
2.
a) Identify three reasons why some people do not believe in God. (3) (2021)
b) Choose one religion. Outline two ways its followers explain the existence of evil
and suffering. (4) (2021)
c) Explain religious beliefs about immortality. (6) (2021)

d) “Humans are more important than animals.”Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)
Life and Death

3.
a) Identify three things the law says about abortion in one named country. (3) (2021)
b) Outline two religious beliefs about the meaning and purpose of life. (4) (2021)
c) Choose one religion. Explain why family life is important to its followers. (6)
(2021)
d) “Attitudes to same sex relationships are changing.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)
4.
a) Identify three purposes of sexual relationships. (3) (2021)
b) Outline two differing attitudes to euthanasia. (4) (2021)

c) Choose one religion. Explain what its followers believe about fertility treatments.
(6) (2021)
d) “Religious people should never divorce.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)
8
Peace and Conflict
5.
a) Identify three crimes. (3) (2021)
b) Outline two reasons why society may need to punish offenders. (4) (2021)
c) Choose one religion. Explain why its followers do not agree with bullying. (6)
(2021)
d) “Religion is the best hope for world peace.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)
6.
a) Identify three ways religious organisations may work for world peace. (3) (2021)
b) Outline two reasons why some non-religious people support capital punishment.
(4) (2021)
c) Choose one religion. Explain its teachings about war. (6) (2021)
d) “Crimes are worse than sins.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)

7.
a) Identify three ways religious people may support human rights. (3) (2021)
b) Choose one religion. Outline two attitudes its followers may have towards people
of other religions. (4) (2021)
c) Explain non-religious attitudes to racial harmony. (6) (2021)

d) “Religions are biased in favour of men.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)
8.
a) Identify three ways society could support the poor. (3) (2021)
b) Choose one religion. Outline two attitudes its followers may have towards living
in a multi-faith society. (4) (2021)
c) Explain the responses religious people may have to changes in women’s role in
society. (6) (2021)
d) “Religious people should uphold all human rights.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)
Paper 1: 2022
1.
a) Identify three beliefs about predestination. (3) (2022)
b) Choose one religion. Outline two beliefs about the origin of the universe in this
religion. (4) (2022)
c) Explain why some people believe there is more than one god. (6) (2022)
d) “Humans will always cause conflict.”Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)
2.
a) Outline three possible responses to suffering. (3) (2022)
b) Choose one religion. Outline two of its beliefs that may give life purpose. (4)
(2022)
c) Explain why some people believe there is nothing more than the physical world.
(6) (2022)
d) “God is the only possible reason the world exists.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)
9
Life and Death
3.
a) Identify three attitudes to cohabitation. (3) (2022)
b) Outline two beliefs about the consequences of cause and effect on life after death..
(4) (2022)
c) Choose one religion. Explain the beliefs its followers may have about euthanasia.
(6) (2022)
d) “All religious people should have children.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)
4.
a) Identify three attitudes to remarriage. (3) (2022)
b) Outline two non-religious beliefs about the meaning and purpose of life. (4)
(2022)
c) Choose one religion. Explain what its followers believe about the purpose of
marriage. (6) (2022)
d) “A nuclear family is the best model for society.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)
Peace and Conflict

5.
a) Identify three possible responses to bullying. (3) (2022)
b) Outline two religious attitudes to the importance of peace. (4) (2022)

c) Choose one religion. Explain why its followers do not agree with bullying. (6)
(2022)
d) “Religion is the best hope for world peace.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)
6.
a) Identify three sins. (3) (2022)
b) Outline two religious attitudes towards the aims of punishment. (4) (2022)
c) Choose one religion. Explain the importance of forgiveness in this religion. (6)
(2022)
d) “The death penalty may be the lesser of two evils.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)

7.
a) Identify three religious attitudes to proselytisation. (3) (2022)

b) Choose one religion. Outline two responsibilities its followers have in a multi
ethnic society. (4) (2022)
c) Explain religious attitudes to the treatment of the poor. (6) (2022)

d) “Women and men should be equal in all things.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)
8.
a) Identify three reasons why some religious people may not support human rights..
(3) (2022)
b) Choose one religion. Outline two attitudes its followers may hold towards
interfaith relationships. (4) (2022)
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c) Explain the responsibilities many religious people believe they have to the poor.
(6) (2022)
d) “Disabled people have the same rights as others in society.” Evaluate etc. (12)
(2022)
Paper 2: 2019
Origins and their Impact on the Community

a) Outline two events that occurred when the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet
Muhammad. (4) (2019)
b) Explain why the imam is important in Sunni communities. (6) (2019)
c) “The Prophet Muhammad is the only teacher a Muslim needs.” Discuss etc. (10)
(2019)
Celebration and Pilgrimage

a) Outline two practices associated with Hajj. (4) (2019)
b) Explain why Madinah is important for Muslims. (6) (2019)
c) “Eid ul-Fitr is the most important Muslim festival.” Discuss etc. (10) (2019)
Worship and Practice

a) Outline two practices associated with Jum’a prayers. (4) (2019)
b) Explain why the five daily prayers are important to Muslims. 6) (2019)
c) “The most important purpose of a mosque is as a place of worship.” Discuss etc. (10)
(2019)
Paper 2: 2020
a) Outline two teachings from the Prophet Muhammad’s final sermon. (4) (2020)
b) Explain the importance of the Qur’an for Muslims. (6) (2020)
c) “The imam is an important leader for Sunni Muslims.” Discuss etc. (10) (2020)
a) Outline two features of the celebration of Eid ul-Adha. (4) (2020)

b) Explain the importance of Makkah for Muslims. (6) (2020)
c) “Madinah is the most important city for Muslims.” Discuss etc. (10) (2020)

a) Outline two internal features of a mosque. (4) (2020)
b) Explain the importance of the marriage ceremony for Muslims. (6) (2020)
c) “Mosques are essential to Muslim communities.” Discuss etc. (10) (2020)
Paper 2: 2021

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a) Outline two roles of the Ulema for Muslims today. (4) (2021)
b) Explain the importance of Muhammad as ‘seal of the prophets’. (6) (2021)
c) “The Rightly-Guided Caliphs were essential to the development of Islam..” Discuss
etc. (10) (2021)
a) Outline two ways in which Madinah is important for Muslims. (4) (2021)
b) Explain the importance of Eid-ul-Fitr for Muslims. (6) (2021)
c) “All Muslims should visit Makkah during their lifetime.” Discuss etc. (10) (2021)

a) Outline two ways mosques are used by Muslims today. (4) (2021)
b) Explain the importance of Jum’a prayers for Muslims today. (6) (2021)
c) “For Muslims, birth ceremonies are more important than death rituals.” Discuss etc.
(10) (2021)
Paper 2: 2022
a) Outline two ways Musims show respect for the Qur’an.. (4) (2022)
b) Explain the importance of the Rightly-Guided Caliphs for the development of Sunni
islam. (6) (2022)
c) “The principles of ijma and qiyyas are essential for a complete understanding of
Muslim teaching.” Discuss etc. (10) (2022)
a) Outline two ways in which Makkah is significant for Muslims. (4) (2022)
b) Explain the importance of the Hajj for Muslims. (6) (2022)
c) “Eid ul-Adha is the most important Muslim festival.” Discuss etc. (10) (2022)

a) Outline two features of Muslim birth ceremonies. (4) (2022)
b) Explain why the design of mosques may differ from one Muslim community to
another. (6) (2022)
c) “For Muslims, worship at home is just as important as worship in a mosque..” Discuss
etc. (10) (2022)
12
These are the grids used for the marking in each
Generic Mark Schemes type of question in any of the papers/topics
Paper One and Two: Three mark questions:
Four mark questions:
Paper One and Two: Six mark questions:
Paper One: Twelve mark questions
13
Paper Two Ten Markers
14
Paper One: Beliefs and Values
The Universe, Creation and the Place of Human Beings
Identify three examples of selfishness (3) (2019)

Award one mark for each point identified up to a maximum of three:
Not sharing resources. (1)
Not giving to charity. (1)
Not helping those in need. (1)
Spending all one’s money on oneself. (1)
Not paying employees a fair wage. (1)
Accept any other alternative valid response.
Identify three ways humans can protect the environment. (3) (2019)
 Recycling. (1)
 Sponsoring an endangered animal. (1)
 Use renewable energy sources. (1)
 Use biodegradable products. (1)
 Use public transport. (1)
Identify three characteristics of God. (3) (2020)

Omnipotent (1)
Omniscient (1)
Benevolent (1)
Creator (1)
Eternal (1).
Identify three rights animals should have. (3) (2020)

Food (1)
Water (1)
Humane slaughter (1)
Comfortable living arrangements (1)
Right to mate (1).
Identify three root causes of wrongdoing. (3) (2021)

Selfishness (1)
Greed (1)
Ignorance (1)
Disobeying God (1)
Envy (1).
Accept any other valid response.
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Identify three reasons why some people do not believe in God. (3) (2021)
No empirical proof (1)
Scientific evidence (1)
The reality of evil and suffering (1)
No religious upbringing (1)
Cultural influences (1).
Identify three beliefs about predestination. (3) (2022)

Every decision is determined by God (1)
The life of a person is totally
predetermined (1)
The life of a person is not predetermined
(1)
A person can change their destiny by their
actions (1)
Some aspects of life are predetermined
others are not (1).
Outline three possible responses to suffering. (3) (2022)

It is caused by sin (1)
Prayer (1)
Charity (1)
It is part of the test of life (1)
It is caused by desire (1).
Outline two reasons why some people are atheists. (4) (2019)
Award one mark for providing a reason. Award a second mark for development of the reason. Up to a
maximum of four marks.
 Some may think there is no empirical evidence of an ultimate reality; (1) faith requires belief in the
unseen. (1)
 Children may be brought up in an atheist household, (1) and see no reason to change their belief
system. (1)
 Tragic events may lead a person to conclude that God does not exist, (1) for example, the death of a
loved one after prayer. (1)
Reject:
 Repeated reason/ development.
 Development that does not relate both to the reason given and to the question.
Outline two religious beliefs about free will. (4) (2019)

Award one mark for providing a belief. Award a second mark for development of the belief. Up to a
 Religious people may believe human beings were given free will by God (1), so they could freely
choose to worship him. (1)
 Humans actions are planned by God (1), he has predetermined the destiny of every person. (1)
 Human beings can misuse their free will (1), God will not interfere even to prevent moral evil. (1)
Choose one religion. Outline two ways its followers should treat animals. (4) (2020)
Christianity:
16
The righteous should care for the needs of their animals (1), because all living things are part of God’s
creation (1).
Some Christians believe they can use animals in whichever way they choose (1), since God gave man
dominion over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air (1).
Animals, as part of the creation, should
be treated with respect (1), as creation does not belong to humanity, they are merely its custodians (1).
Choose one religion. Outline two beliefs about the immortality of the soul in this
Christianity:
• Some Christians believe all humans have an immortal soul which exists distinct from but connected
to the body (1). When a person dies it is this soul which will be judged by God (1).
At death the soul is separated from the body and exists in a disembodied state (1). On the Day of
Judgement souls will be resurrected (1).
Christians believe they will live eternally in heaven with God (1). Jesus told the criminal with him on
the cross that he would go straight to paradise (1).
Choose one religion. Outline two reasons why its followers believe they have a
responsibility to look after the world. (4) (2021)
Christianity:
Christians believe God created the world (1). He gave humanity the duty to care for his creation (1).
They believe God has loaned the planet to humanity and will expect it back in good condition (1). They
therefore have a responsibility to care for the environment on God’s behalf (1).
• The New Testament teaches that not a sparrow falls to the ground outside God’s care (1). Therefore
all living things are of value to God (1).
Choose one religion. Outline two ways its followers explain the existence of evil and
suffering. (4) (2021)
Christianity:
Some Christians consider suffering to be caused by the actions of Satan (1), who tempts humans to
disobey the will of God (1).
God gave humans free will (1) and will not override their decisions even if these lead to suffering (1).
They may believe suffering is due to God testing humans (1). They cite the example of Job who
suffered with God’s consent (1).
Choose one religion. Outline two beliefs about the origin of the universe in this religion.
(4) (2022)
Christianity:
God created everything from nothing in six days (1) and rested on the seventh (1).
God is the only possible creator of a complex universe (1). He is described as omnipotent and
omniscient (1).
Only God is eternal and is the only one who could have created the universe (1). The creator of the
universe must have existed outside of time in order to bring the world into existence (1).
Choose one religion. Outline two of its beliefs that may give life purpose. (4) (2022)
Christianity:
• Christians believe their purpose in life is to worship God (1) and honour him in every aspect of their
lives (1).
Some see their purpose as fulfilling Jesus’ command when he said ‘I will make you fishers of men’ (1)
so their purpose is to lead others to salvation (1).
Some believe they have a God given purpose as stewards of Creation (1). Their purpose is to protect
and cherish the world God created (1).
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Choose one religion and explain how its followers explain the existence of suffering in
the world. (6) (2019)
Christianity:
 Life is a test sent by God. Suffering is part of the test of life. How an individual reacts helps to
determine if a person is judged worthy of heaven.
 Suffering is caused by God-given free will. God will not override the free will of an individual even
if they are using their free will to harm others.
 God permits Satan to cause suffering to God’s followers, as exemplified by the suffering inflicted
upon Job. This enables them to demonstrate their faithfulness in the face of adversity.
 Suffering caused by natural evil, such as floods, is due to human ignorance of God’s design, since
they do not understand that some places are unsuitable to live in.
Choose one religion and explain what its followers believe about the creation of the
universe. (6) (2019)
Christianity:
 The Bible reveals the story of creation. God created everything from nothing in six days and rested
on the seventh.
 God is described as omnipotent and omniscient and is therefore the only possible creator of a
complex universe.
 The world shows evidence of design, for example in the complexity of the human eye, which some
Christians believe could not have arisen as the result of the Big Bang.
 The creator of the universe must have existed outside of time in order to bring the world into
existence. Only God is eternal and is the only one who could have created the universe.
Explain non-religious beliefs about free will. (6) (2020)

Students will develop responses using ideas/reasoning/arguments such as:
Some atheists believe that one’s consciousness, and therefore actions, is determined biologically.
Decisions are therefore the consequence of gene interactions rather than a real choice.
Some believe belief in free will and moral responsibility is justified. Since humans are social beings,
like chimpanzees, they can choose to act in a way to benefit society, even at personal cost.
Some believe in partial free will. For example an individual cannot choose how their digestive system
works however they can learn how to help it function well by choosing what is eaten.
Some consider the idea of free will, and thus personal responsibility, is essential for the functioning of
society. If humanity is not responsible for its moral mistakes then punishment is not an appropriate
response.
Explain the causes of human wrongdoing. (6) (2020)

Religious people believe that when they do wrong it is an act that contravenes the wishes of God; they
may consider sin to be caused by the temptations of Satan.
Human wrongdoing may be caused by selfishness. Humans put their own desires first due to a lack of
self-control.
Human wrongdoing may be caused by ignorance. If a person is not familiar with the rules and
traditions of their faith they may do wrong without intent.
Humans may do wrong as a consequence of poverty. They may steal to feed their children.
Explain how religious people may respond to the problem of evil and suffering.. (6)
(2021)
They will pray for those who suffer, believing that God will intervene and ease their suffering.
They may suggest that suffering is a result of previous choices. This results in a karmic debt that must
be repaid.
18
They may work in vocational occupations, such as medicine, to provide practical help to those who
suffer most.
They give charity, either time or money, to support the work of those who relieve suffering, such as
Christian Aid.
Explain religious beliefs about immortality. (6) (2021)

Buddhists believe in rebirth. When someone dies their energy passes into another form, giving a sense
of continuation and therefore immortality.
Some Christians believe all humans have an immortal soul which exists distinct from, but connected to,
the body. At the end of time the body is resurrected and reunited with the soul.
Hindus believe in the immortality of the atman. Death is a period of rest before the atman returns to
earth to continue its journey.
Some Jewish people believe that immortality depends on conduct. If an individual is too evil to warrant
resurrection, then the Almighty will not resurrect that person.
Explain why some people believe there is more than one god. (6) (2022)
Some people may believe there is more than one god because they were brought up in a polytheistic
society, where many gods were acknowledged and worshipped.
Polytheism provides a logical explanation for the problem, common in monotheistic faiths, of the
existence of evil and suffering. If there are many gods some may cause suffering whilst others alleviate
it.
Some may suggest that polytheism more closely reflects a person’s experience of the world. Often in
society one person is responsible for a limited range of tasks, this is reflected in the order among the
gods.
Others may suggest that the world is complex and inter- related but not everything works together
perfectly. This suggests that everything is not under the control of a single entity but rather by the
interactions of more than one deity.
Explain why some people believe there is nothing more than the physical world. (6)
(2022)
Some people choose to believe there is nothing more than the physical world, that everything is
determined by invariable rules of science, since increasingly everything, even human behaviour, can be
explained in this way.
There is no empirical evidence for a world beyond the physical, particularly since the physical includes
interactions at a sub-atomic level that cannot be seen.
Some suggest that whilst physicalism is difficult to understand at the present time since humanity’s
understanding of science is incomplete, when humans learn more it will provide a full explanation of
all currently inexplicable phenomena.
The evidence for a world beyond the physical is often judged to be unreliable; the evidence depends on
perceived experience and historical claims which cannot be substantiated, or can already be explained
in terms of physicalism.
“There is only one God’ Evaluate etc. (12) (2019)

Students must underpin their analysis and evaluation with knowledge and understanding. Candidates
will be required to demonstrate thorough knowledge and understanding as well as accuracy of religion
and belief when responding to the question and in meeting AO2 descriptors.
 Judaism, Christianity and Islam all worship a single God who was revealed to different prophets
throughout history beginning with Adam as the first man.
19
 The Bible teaches that there is only one God and that he has a plan for humanity. For the plan to be
fulfilled there can be only one God with the omniscience and omnipotence to see it through.
 Many religious people believe that all religions teach part of a universal truth that will result in
reward for those who are good people. This suggests, for some Christians, that ultimately there is one
God at the heart of all faith and he is understood in different ways.
 Polytheism was the earliest form of religious belief and the gods and goddesses who were
worshipped were representations of the forces of nature and ancestral spirits.
 In some traditions there are gods and goddesses who seek to do good for humanity contrasted with
those who cause harm, otherwise a single entity must be responsible for both the good and evil that
happens.
 Atheists could point to the evidence from science and say rather than one God there is no God as
there has never been empirical proof of an eternal being.
“Everyone has an immortal soul.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2019)

 Christians would agree since they believe God breathed life into humans and so each human contains
the divine, which they describe as the soul. As God is immortal the soul must also be immortal.
 Some scientists are also beginning to accept the idea that a human being is more than the sum of its
atoms and chemical reactions. Even when people suffer catastrophic memory loss they retain a sense of
personality or ‘self’.
 Jesus taught about the soul as a reality; ‘Do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the
soul’ suggesting God created human beings to be embodied souls.
 Some religions such as Buddhism do not believe in the existence of a soul. The Buddha taught that
what people call the soul does not have a real, independent existence.
 Many non-religious people disagree with the concept of an immortal soul since there is no evidence
that any part of a person survives after the death of the body.
 Many scientists think that all human behavior can be explained as a series of complex chemical
reactions. A soul suggests an unchanging ‘self’ but reality shows that a person changes over the course
of a lifetime as they learn from experience.
“Everyone suffers; therefore God cannot exist.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2020)
Christians may argue that free will is the cause of suffering, believing that even an all-loving God will
not over-ride free will. Therefore, even if people suffer, it does not disprove the existence of God.
Muslims believe life is a test for Judgement Day. Suffering is merely part of the test of life, to be
endured with patience in expectation of great reward.
Hindus believe that suffering in this life is a consequence of actions in a past life. Therefore the role of
suffering is to improve a soul; this encourages humans to live a good life to achieve a more favourable
reincarnation.
Others may find it difficult to believe that a benevolent God allows the innocent to suffer. They point to
issues such as birth deficiencies and childhood cancer to suggest that there cannot be a loving God.
Many non-religious people find it difficult to accept that an all-loving, all-knowing God who created
the universe allowed problems, such as earthquakes, to cause suffering.
The inconsistent triad suggests God cannot exist in the presence of suffering. God should want to
prevent suffering, knows when it will happen and has the power to prevent it. Since he does not stop it
God cannot exist.
“There is no proof that God exists.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2020)

Many non-religious people may agree that the evidence offered by holy books is not empirical
evidence. Therefore belief in a higher being depends on faith, rather than fact, since there is no way to
prove it.
20
For some, the testimony of believers can be dismissed as ‘wishful thinking’ or group indoctrination,
where the belief in a higher being is passed from parent to child and reinforced by a like- minded
community.
‘Evidence’ suggested by the Design and Cosmological Arguments can be contradicted by a variety of
scientific arguments. The appearance of design in the world, for example, can be refuted because of the
long existence of life on earth and the random effects of survival of the fittest.
Those who believe in God may argue that their personal experience of a higher being is the strongest
evidence of the existence of God. The belief brings strength, comfort and a readily accessible moral
code.
The evidence of the holy books is also used as proof of God’s existence since there are many aspects of
the Qur’an, for example, which are increasingly shown to be accurate in terms of modern scientific
discoveries.
Many believers point to the existence of miracles and other religious experience as proof of the
existence of God. They cite evidence such as the validated cures observed and recorded at Lourdes.
“There is more to life than the physical world.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)
Christians will agree with this since they believe that this life is merely preparation for an afterlife that
will last for eternity.
They may cite the evidence from holy books such as the Qur’an, which talks of the afterlife as reward
for a life well lived.
Some non-religious people would also agree. They may point to the existence of inexplicable
phenomena, such as ghosts.
Many atheists would disagree as they are persuaded by the evidence of science which shows humans as
part of the evolution of life on this planet, and therefore human life has no more meaning than for an
animal.
Humanists, for example, in seeing this life as all there is, work hard to add value to their own life and
see the value in all lives.
There remains no empirical evidence of either an ultimate reality or an afterlife. In the absence of proof
many are reluctant to believe.
“Humans are more important than animals.”Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)

Some Christians believe humans are more important than animals. God created both humans and
animals but gave humans dominion over the rest of the natural world.
Non-religious people may believe humans are more important than animals. Many scientists consider
animal testing to be of value if it benefits humanity.
Many Sikhs believe that it is only in human form that a soul can be judged. Therefore animals cannot
be as important as humans as they cannot reach enlightenment.
Some believe all life is inter-linked. As such every aspect of the environment is important and all
should be respected.
Some believe that since God created all living things, all of creation has equal value.
Some non-religious people believe animals deserve the same rights as humans and therefore protest
against animal testing even if it is for the benefit of humanity.
“Humans will always cause conflict.”Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)

Some would argue that war is the consequence of human ignorance and greed. Since many people want
more than they have there will always be conflict between people.
Christianity teaches that everyone is born with original sin. In order to redeem their human nature a
person must repent and seek salvation, those who do not continue to cause conflict.
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Religion itself can become a source of conflict. Humans can see those who do not share their beliefs as
‘other’ and therefore the enemy. Faith therefore becomes another thing to be fought over.
Some would argue that salvation liberates a person from their human nature, and they can then choose
to act for the good of all rather than for personal gain, and bring peace rather than conflict.
Islam teaches that whilst human nature may provoke conflict, choosing to forgive is a means to avoid
conflict and bring peace. Those who choose to overcome their desire for revenge are rewarded by
Allah.
Some non-religious people believe that since this life is the only life a person has, they should not
engage in conflict but rather work to improve the lives of those in need in conflict zones.
“God is the only possible reason the world exists.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)
For Christians and Jews Genesis confirms that the world was made by God. Since the scriptures are
regarded by many as infallible this must be true.
The causation argument suggests that there must be a creator since every event must have a cause.
Since God exists outside the constraints of time and space he must be the cause of the world.
The design of the world confirms a creator for those who believe. Earth lies in the Goldilocks belt, any
closer to the sun and life could never have existed, any further away it would be frozen.
Non-religious people may argue that the discoveries of science provide a valid alternative to the idea of
God as creator. The Big Bang occurred billions of years ago and over the course of time the force of
gravity pulled the planets together.
Even if a person accepts the argument from causality there is no evidence to prove the uncaused cause
was God. Alternative views suggest an advanced alien life form.
Hindus believe that the universe neither starts nor ends, rather its form is cyclical. The Rigveda
presents many theories of cosmology. For example, the Nasadiya Sukta asks who created the universe
and suggests no-one really knows, and that it may never be known.
22
Life and Death
Identify three reasons why religious people believe in life after death. (3) (2019)
 People report having near death experiences. (1)
 Some children remember previous lives. (1)
 Mediums who can talk to the dead. (1)
 Ghosts. (1)
 It provides comfort after bereavement.
(1)
Identify three possible consequences of divorce. (3) (2019)

 Both people are poorer . (1)
 Children may not see one parent
regularly. (1)
 Parents may fight over custody. (1)
 Children may not do as well at school.
(1)
 Children may be happier . (1)
Identify three non-religious ideas about the meaning and purpose of life.. (3) (2020)
The purpose of life is to be happy (1)
To have children (1)
To build a career (1)
To find love (1)
To make money (1).
Identify three rights children should have. (3) (2020)

Children have the right to be safe (1)
Food (1)
Clean water (1)
Shelter (1)
Education (1).
Accept any other valid response
Identify three things the law says about abortion in one named country. (3) (2021)
Award one mark for each point identified up to a maximum of three: e.g. England
Requires the consent of two doctors (1)
Must be before 24 weeks (1)
Allowed if pregnancy risks the life of the mother (1)
Allowed if the child would suffer excessively (1)
Allowed if the mental health of the mother is at risk (1).
Identify three purposes of sexual relationships. (3) (2021)

They allow for procreation (1)
They have a spiritual function (1)
They fulfil physical needs (1)
23
They are for enjoyment (1)
They unite married couples (1).
Identify three attitudes to cohabitation. (3) (2022)

It should never happen (1)
It is perfectly acceptable (1)
It is a useful prelude to marriage (1)
It does not provide security (1)
It avoids commitment (1).
Identify three attitudes to remarriage. (3) (2022)

It is entirely up to the individual (1)
It is equivalent to adultery (1)
It provides stability for children (1)
God wants his followers to be happy (1)
It provides love and companionship (1).
Choose one religion. Explain two reasons why its followers believe it is important to
reduce suffering. (4) (2019)
Christianity:
 Jesus taught Christians to ‘Love your neighbour’, (1) redistributing wealth helps to reduce suffering.
(1)
 The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats teaches Christians they will be judged on how they treat
others, (1) providing food for the hungry fulfils Jesus’ command. (1)
 In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus said Christians should give charity in secret, (1) therefore they can
receive reward from God rather than praise from other people. (1)
Choose one religion. Outline two attitudes its followers hold about sex outside marriage.
(4) (2019)
 All Christians are firmly opposed to adultery, (1) because it was forbidden by God in the Ten
Commandments. (1)
 Many Christians believe sex should only take place within marriage, (1) because it is the place
God instituted as the correct place to have and raise children. (1)
 Some Christians accept sex outside marriage within the confines of a committed and enduring
relationship (1) and see it as a step on the road to marriage. (1)
 Accept any other alternative valid response.
Outline two reasons why some people decide not to have children. (4) (2020)
Some people choose to remain childfree because of religious vocation (1). For example, Catholic
Priests are called to be celibate (1).
Some people choose not to have children for health reasons (1); for example, if a person carries a
genetic disorder they may not want to pass it on to their children (1).
Some people choose to be childfree because of environmental concerns (1). Many consider the world
to be overpopulated and therefore choose not to add to the problem (1).
Outline two different attitudes to homosexuality. (4) (2020)

Award one mark for providing an attitude. Award a second mark for development of the attitude. Up to
a maximum of four marks.
Some people think homosexuality is wrong (1), since it is banned by some holy books (1).
Some people believe homosexuality is genetically determined (1); therefore it cannot be wrong (1).
24
Some people think homosexuality can be ‘cured’ (1), for example by conversion therapy (1).
Responses that refer only to one attitude cannot be awarded more than two marks.
Outline two religious beliefs about the meaning and purpose of life. (4) (2021)
Many religious people believe their primary purpose on earth is to worship God (1). In pleasing God
they find fulfillment (1).
Some believe the purpose of life on earth is to learn and grow spiritually (1), in order to achieve
enlightenment (1).
Some believe this life is a test of the quality of a soul (1); their purpose is to fulfill God’s will to
achieve paradise (1).
Outline two differing attitudes to euthanasia. (4) (2021)

Many religious people are opposed to euthanasia because of the belief in the sanctity of life (1). If life
belongs to God then humans cannot choose to end it prematurely (1).
Some Muslims accept the switching off of life support machines (1). They argue that Allah has already
taken the life and therefore the test of life is complete (1).
Some non-religious people advocate euthanasia on demand for those facing terminal illness (1). They
argue that an individual must have the right to die as they choose, since it is their life (1).
Candidates who do not consider differing attitudes cannot be awarded more than 2 marks.
Outline two beliefs about the consequences of cause and effect on life after death. (4)
(2022)
Muslims believe they must live a life according to the will of Allah to achieve paradise (1). If they do
not they will go to hell (1).
Sikhs believe in the cycle of samsara (1). Karma gained in this life determines whether a soul will be
liberated from the cycle of death and rebirth (1).
Some non-religious people believe that a violent death means they cannot escape this world (1); they
will be forced to wander the earth seeking justice (1).
Outline two non-religious beliefs about the meaning and purpose of life. (4) (2022)
Some non-religious people believe life has no higher purpose (1); they are therefore within their rights
to live life to please only themselves (1).
Some believe it is their purpose to improve the quality of life for all humanity (1), since this life is all
there is (1).
Some people find meaning and purpose in those things which they can control in life (1), such as a
career or raising a family (1).
Explain the differing attitudes of religious people to the issue of childlessness. (6) (2019)
 Some believe that it is up to God to give a couple the gift of a child, if God has not blessed them in
this way then he may have a different plan for their lives.
 Some believe that God has provided the scientific knowledge to provide infertility treatment to help
couples have children. It is therefore working with God rather than against him.
25
 Some believe that some types of infertility treatment are acceptable if the sperm and egg come from
a married husband and wife, as to involve a third party would be adultery.
 Some believe that infertility treatment should not be available to those who would be single parents
or to homosexual couples since God wants children to be born into a stable married relationship with
both a mother and a father.
Explain why family life is important for many religious people. (6) (2019)
 Many religious people believe that family life was ordained by God. As such it is the only correct
place to have and bring up children according to God’s rules.
 There are rules in many scriptures to ensure family life is happy and stable. For example, the Ten
Commandments say ‘Honour your father and your mother’ and rewards those who follow this
command.
 Many religious people believe that children who grow up in stable family units are more likely to
become valuable members of society as they achieve more at school and suffer fewer mental health
problems.
 Many religions teach that the family is where a person is first welcomed into a faith and where they
learn their religion. For example, the Aqiqah ceremony welcomes Muslim children into the
community.
Choose one religion. Explain the attitudes its followers have towards divorce. (6) (2020)
Christianity:
Some Christians are opposed to divorce as it breaks the marriage vows. Since marriage may be seen as
a sacrament, divorce dishonours God.
All Christians view divorce as best avoided, though many allow divorce in some circumstances e.g.
where one partner is at risk.
Some Christians allow divorce if the children of a marriage are suffering as a result of conflict in the
marriage. They see divorce as the lesser of two evils, which may benefit all concerned.
Christians believe God is both compassionate and forgiving, therefore if a marriage ends in divorce
God will forgive them.
Choose one religion. Explain the attitudes its followers may have towards abortion. (6)
(2020)
Christianity:
Most Christians are opposed to abortion as it breaks the Commandment not to kill. The Church of
England teaches that the foetus has a right to life.
Many feel the current law in the UK is interpreted too liberally, and fight to restrict access to abortions.
Some Catholics believe that abortion should be against the law and totally banned.
Some believe that the foetus does not become a human until between 40 and 80 days. They therefore
argue that very early abortions, under strictly limited conditions, should be allowed.
Some use the principle of ‘Love thy neighbour’ and argue that an abortion may be lesser of two evils.
Choose one religion. Explain why family life is important to its followers. (6) (2021)
Christianity:
Christians believe the family unit was ordained by God as the best place to have and raise Christian
children, thereby expanding the faith.
Christians consider family life to be a blessing. Some believe the man is the head of the family whilst
the wife provides support and nurtures the children; fulfilling their roles pleases God.
Christians see the family as the place where children are introduced to the faith. Many Christian
families worship together and attend Church as a family.
Families play an important role in the wider community. They provide support for other families and
care for the elderly.
26
Choose one religion. Explain what its followers believe about fertility treatments. (6)
(2021)
Christianity:
Many Christians regard it as a duty to have children since God commanded them to go forth and
multiply. They therefore accept AIH as a way of fulfilling God’s will.
Many accept AIH as it does not involve a third party and therefore does not break a commandment. It
reduces suffering and shows love.
Christians believe children are a gift from God who has a plan for every life. Therefore, some believe
all forms of infertility treatment are an act of defiance against God.
Some are against IVF on the basis that spare embryos may be destroyed. This breaks the
Commandment not to kill.
Choose one religion. Explain the beliefs its followers may have about euthanasia. (6)
(2022)
Christianity:
The Bible teaches ‘Do not kill’ so many Christians believe euthanasia is unacceptable. They believe
God will help and comfort those who suffer.
Some believe suicide is a mortal sin since it disrespects God’s gift of life.
Voluntary euthanasia would therefore condemn a person to an afterlife
in hell.
Many believe God created each individual uniquely and life belongs only
to him. To take part in euthanasia therefore usurps the role of God.
Some may argue that if there is no quality of life then, in reality, God has
already taken that life and the medicines are merely delaying God’s will. Accept any other valid
response.
Choose one religion. Explain what its followers believe about the purpose of marriage.
(6) (2022)
Christianity:
Many Christians believe marriage is ordained by God, that it is intended by God for their mutual joy.
They therefore believe it is a lifelong union between a man and a woman.
Many believe that one purpose of marriage is to provide a safe and secure environment to have and
raise children. The Old Testament teaches to ‘go forth and multiply’, so many see it as a Christian’s
duty to marry and have children.
Raising Christian children in a happy marriage is the ideal state for many Christians since it ensures the
growth and development of the faith. Children raised in a Christian home are more likely to continue to
believe in God.
Many Christians believe marriage is the only place where they can enjoy sex in the way ordained by
God. The New Testament says ‘it is better to marry than to burn with passion.’
“In order for life to have meaning and purpose a person must be religious.” Evaluate
etc. (12) (2019)
 The scriptures of many religions teach that humanity’s purpose is to worship God, therefore without
religious belief, regardless of how meaningful life appears to be, a person’s life cannot be fulfilling its
true purpose.
 Muslims regard the purpose of life as a test from God. Their responses determine their eternal fate on
Judgement Day. Without God there can be no test.
 For some religious people their primary role is to spread the word of God. They are therefore
responsible to God for how the world receives his message and must set a good example in every area
of their lives.
 Humanists often believe that the finality of a single life makes it important to live life well. Since
there is no eternity all the meaning and purpose of life must be realised on earth.
 Many non-religious people find meaning and purpose in family life by raising their children with
morals and values, which equip them to be good citizens without the need for God’s rules.
27
 Many non-religious people contribute a great deal to the society they live in. Since there is no
afterlife it is more important to work to improve the quality of life for all on earth today.
“Heterosexual relationships are the best model for society.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2019)
 Most religious people believe that God ordained marriage, and for some, such as Christians, it is a
sacrament. Therefore religious belief encourages traditional heterosexual family units and improves the
stability of the society.
 Men and women complement each other with diverse skills and abilities that benefit the family unit
as a whole and leads to the stable upbringing of children.
 The only way to reproduce naturally is within a heterosexual relationship. This fulfills God’s
command and avoids the need to bring a third person, such as an egg donor, into the relationship.
 Any society which promotes one form of relationship over all others will inevitably advantage some
people at the expense of others. This leads to unrest and civil disobedience.
 Science has demonstrated that not everyone is naturally attracted to members of the opposite sex, so
to only promote traditional heterosexual relationships leaves some people with no option for family life
or children.
 Many people find themselves in single-parent families through family breakdown or the death of a
spouse. This can leave people feeling isolated and abandoned in a society which only respects
traditional roles. Accept any other valid responses.
“It is the responsibility of a family to look after their elderly relatives.”Evaluate etc. (12)
(2020)
Many religious people have a duty to look after those who are older than them. For example the Ten
Commandments instruct Jews and Christians to ‘Honour your father and your mother’.
Religious people are amongst those who volunteer time and money to support families who are
struggling to look after elderly relatives, they may provide visitors, respite time for the carers, and
social gatherings for the elderly.
Many religious people live in extended families. Grandparents, for example, help to look after children
teaching them their faith. In return the younger generations repay this love by caring for elderly
relatives.
In modern society it is increasingly difficult, even for those who are willing, to devote the time required
to care for aging relatives. People may live far away from their families and work to support their
children.
Some religious people are called to serve in society in different ways. For some people this may mean
that they are unable to dedicate the time to care for the elderly.
As the population ages the needs of the elderly become more complex and more difficult to manage.
For some families there is no alternative to residential care when their elderly relatives become too ill
to care for at home.
“No-one should have sex outside of marriage.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2020)
 Students will develop responses using ideas/reasoning/arguments such as:
 Many religious people agree. Adultery is banned by the Ten Commandments for both
Christians and Jews. Adultery may lead to family breakdown and divorce.
 The Qur’an says ‘Do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed it is ever an
immorality and evil as a way’ (Surah 17:32), banning all sex outside of marriage.
 Many non-religious people are opposed to adultery. The wedding service promises life-long
commitment and fidelity, and to break this destroys trust.
 Some non-religious people see sex as no more than the physical expression of love. They may
argue that commitment is an attitude rather than a promise enshrined in law. They point to the
number of couples who cohabit successfully for life.
 Some members of the Church of England have accepted that cohabitation and sexual
experience may be a step on the road to marriage, and welcome cohabitees to worship.
28
 There is evidence that even amongst young religious people that their attitude to sex before
marriage is influenced by the culture they live in. Those who live in more secular cultures may
accept sex before marriage.
 Accept any other valid response.
“Attitudes to same sex relationships are changing.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)
Some religious people accept the scientific findings which suggest that same sex preference is not a
choice. They therefore accept the right of couples from the same sex to marry and have children.
Wider society is increasingly accepting of same sex relationships. People are portrayed on television
and the rights of those of same sex preference are protected by law.
In England it is now legal for same sex couples to marry. Some Churches, e.g. The Scottish Episcopal
Church, allow same-sex marriages.
Some people interpret the Old Testament as saying that same sex relationships are an abomination, for
example that Leviticus says that those with same sex preference should be put to death. For some
Christians who see this as God’s view their attitude will not change.
Some Christian Churches, particularly in the USA, see same sex preference as a moral failing that can
be ‘cured’. They promote a form of conversion therapy to promote heterosexual relationships.
Whilst it is illegal to discriminate against people with same sex preference hate crimes against them
remain a problem in society, suggesting that for some people the attitude to same sex relationships has
not changed.
Religious people should never divorce.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)

For Catholic Christians marriage is a sacrament, including God as well as a partner. Therefore, to
divorce breaks a promise made to God.
For some Christians marriage is a life-long commitment broken only by the death of a spouse. Families
and the community work very hard to restore broken family relationships.
Hindus believe they have a religious duty in the householder stage to have and raise children. They will
avoid divorce because of the harmful effects on the family.
In Islam marriage is a contract rather than a sacrament. Although divorce is the most hated of lawful
things, Allah understands that humans are weak and make mistakes, and he is both merciful and
compassionate.
Many would argue that in some situations divorce is the lesser of two evils. They would permit divorce
if one of the couple or their children were at risk.
Many religious people are increasingly accepting of the cultural norms of the society they live in, such
that in Western cultures, where divorce is more widespread, they are more likely to divorce.
“All religious people should have children.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)
Some religious people, for example many Christians, see it as a religious duty to have children and
raise them in the faith. They believe that preventing the birth of a child goes against God’s will.
Many Muslims believe that family life is the place where they can fulfill half their deen. They therefore
see having a family as a way of honouring Allah.
Some see childlessness as an illness and will allow infertility treatments to assist couples struggling to
have children. Treatments such as AIH do not break the marriage bond.
Some religious people, for example Catholic priests, are called to a life of celibacy and service. They
renounce the opportunity to have children in order to devote their lives to serving God.
Some people consider that the world is currently overpopulated and argue that it is more moral to adopt
an unwanted child than bring another into the world.
Some people choose not to have children for fear of passing on a genetic disorder. They may live with
a life-limiting disease and not want to pass this on to a new life.
“A nuclear family is the best model for society.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)
29
Many Christians would agree that a nuclear family provides the basis of a stable family unit. It enables
both men and women to fulfil their religious roles and raise children in the faith, benefitting wider
society.
Many non-religious people live in nuclear families where they find meaning and purpose in life
through raising children to be productive members of society.
The nuclear family is common in Western societies where adults often have to leave their local area to
find work. This allows individuals to be more independent and flexible.
For many Muslims the extended family is preferable as it enables several generations to live together.
This enables family responsibilities to be shared and wisdom to be passed to the younger generation.
The extended family provides an environment where aging relatives can be safely cared for and the
love previously shown by them to their children is reciprocated.
For many families the nuclear family is unachievable. It is often preferable to have single parent
families rather than for people to live in fear. As a consequence of divorce and bereavement, many
successful adults grow up in single parent families.
Peace and Conflict
Identify three types of bullying. (3) (2019)

 Verbal abuse. (1)
 Physical abuse. (1)
30
 Cyber bullying. (1)
 Social isolation. (1)
 Slander. (1)
Identify three things a religious organisation may do to work for peace. (3) (2019)
 Peace education. (1)
 Fundraising. (1)
 A wareness raising. (1)
 Building relationships. (1)
 Peaceful protest. (1)
Identify three purposes for the death penalty. (3) (2020)

Punishment (1)
Deterrence (1)
Retribution (1)
Protection (1)
Justice (1).
Identify three causes of conflict. (3) (2020)

Political differences (1)
Limited resources (1)
Historical identity (1)
Cultural divisions (1)
Religion (1).
Identify three crimes. (3) (2021)

Murder (1)
Theft (1)
Fraud (1)
Breaking the speed limit (1)
Shoplifting (1).
Identify three ways religious organisations may work for world peace. (3) (2021)
Education (1)
Campaigning (1)
Protesting (1)
Facilitating negotiations (1)
Promoting tolerance (1).
Identify three possible responses to bullying. (3) (2022)

Fight back (1)
Report it (1)
Punish the bully (1)
Education to prevent it (1)
Ignore it (1).
31
Identify three sins. (3) (2022)
Murder (1)
Theft (1)
Blasphemy (1)
A person not honouring their parents (1)
Envy (1).
Choose one religion. Outline two contrasting attitudes towards war held by its
followers. (4) (2019)
Christianity:
 Some Christians believe war is always wrong. (1) Jesus prevented Peter fighting back when the
soldiers came to arrest him. (1)
 The Sermon on the Mount says ‘Blessed are the peacemakers’. (1) Christians should therefore work
for peace and refuse to participate in war. (1)
 Some Christians choose to fight in Just Wars, (1) as it may be the lesser of two evils. (1)
Choose one religion. Explain two reasons why its followers believe bullying is wrong. (4)
(2019)
Christianity:
 Christians are all taught to love their neighbour, (1) therefore they refuse to participate in bullying.
(1)
 By not bullying, they set a good example to the rest of society, (1) which may lead to people turning
to God. (1)
 This belief enables all Christians to speak as one voice in condemning bullying; (1) this collective
voice has more impact on society. (1)
Outline two types of sins and their consequences. (4) (2020)

Award one mark for providing a type. Award a second mark for development of the type. Up to a
Christianity believes there are sins of omission (1), when not following God’s commands leads to
suffering (1).
Mortal sins are very grave sins undertaken with the knowledge and understanding of the sinner (1).
These, if unforgiven, can lead to damnation (1).
Venial sins are less serious and do not imply the sinner has rejected God (1). The sinner must seek
forgiveness to restore a good conscience (1).
Outline two reasons why some non-religious people are opposed to capital punishment.
(4) (2020)
Some non-religious people believe capital punishment is inhumane (1); sometimes those being put to
death suffer long agonizing deaths (1).
There is little evidence it functions as a deterrent (1). American States with the death penalty have
higher murder rates than those which do not (1).
Innocent people may be wrongly executed (1). Capital Punishment depends on a perfect court system
but humans have unconscious prejudices and make mistakes (1).
32
Outline two reasons why society may need to punish offenders. (4) (2021)
Punishment aims to protect society (1), for example, by removing harmful individuals who may go on
to commit further crimes (1).
Punishment teaches citizens that there are clear penalties for wrongdoing (1). This demonstrates
acceptable behaviour (1).
Punishment makes criminals pay for their crimes (1). The punishment is in proportion to the offense
(1).
Outline two reasons why some non-religious people support capital punishment. (4)
(2021)
Non-religious people may support capital punishment because it removes the worst criminals from
society (1). They are therefore no longer a threat to anyone (1).
It sends a strong message of deterrence (1). This will prevent future criminals committing the crime
(1).
It makes criminals pay for what they have done (1). The only just penalty for murder is death (1).
Outline two religious attitudes to the importance of peace. (4) (2022)

Many religious people believe peace is important because God created the world as a peaceful place
(1). They therefore work to achieve this on earth (1).
Peace is often commanded in the scriptures (1). For example, Psalm 34:15 says ‘Turn away from evil
seek peace and pursue it’.
Peace is important because it brings security and stability to the society (1). This enables religious
people to practice their faith without fear (1).
Outline two religious attitudes towards the aims of punishment. (4) (2022)
Some religious people see reform as the most important aim of punishment (1). By encouraging a
person to change for the better it improves the quality of their life (1).
Some believe that punishment must have a deterrent effect (1). The Torah teaches ‘An eye for an eye’
and this sets an example for the whole community (1).
Some may suggest that the most important aim of punishment is to restore justice (1). A thief, for
example, should recompense their victim (1).
Explain why some people think reform is the most important aim of punishment. (6)
(2019)
 The criminal is changed by the punishment and will not commit the crime again; this will reduce the
rate of re-offending and therefore the crime rate.
 Reforming criminals enables them to contribute back to the society they have damaged e.g. by
gaining educational qualifications and employment.
 It is more effective than retribution, since if criminals are simply punished and not helped, they may
return to their criminal ways, increasing the threat to society.
 Many religious people work in prisons to help criminals reform, since they believe everyone is
capable of change. They hope that the criminal will find God through their help and support.
Explain the differences between sins and crimes. (6) (2019)

33
 A sin is an offense against the will of God whereas a crime is an offense against the law of the land.
Sins may vary according to the faith of an individual; the law of the land is the same for everyone.
 Some things are forbidden to religious people but accepted by the law of the land. For example, in
many religions adultery is prohibited, but it is not against the law of most countries.
 Some things are against the law but may not be sins. For example, it is against the law to drive above
the speed limit, but if a person is rushing to reach hospital and save a life, the intention makes the act
not sinful.
 A sin may have no consequence on earth as it may not be against the law, however there may be a
price to pay on Judgement Day. By contrast, if a person commits a crime and are found guilty, they
will be punished on earth.
Choose one religion. Explain the attitudes to punishment in this religion. (6) (2020)
Christianity:
Christians believe criminals should be treated justly. Therefore the punishment should fit the crime,
and the same offence should command the same punishment.
Jesus taught that Christians should not be judgmental, and seek to reform sinners. This will result in the
protection of society.
Many believe in the teaching of the Old Testament so retribution is an acceptable form of punishment.
The criminal should be punished in a way that reflects their crime i.e. an eye for an eye.
Many believe that harsh punishments are the most effective form of deterrence. This both prevents re-
offending and discourages others from committing the crime.
Choose one religion. Explain the teachings about the importance of forgiveness in this
Christianity:
Jesus said Christians should forgive seventy times seven (seventy seven in some translations)
suggesting that for Christians forgiveness is so important it should be unlimited.
In order for Christians to be forgiven they must forgive others. Forgiving others enables God to be
merciful to the sinner.
It was commanded by Jesus that the disciples should go out, teach and forgive sins. By believers
forgiving the sins of others those sins are forgiven by God.
Jesus spoke of the importance of being merciful. The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant shows the
importance of forgiveness.
Choose one religion. Explain why its followers do not agree with bullying. (6) (2021)
Christianity:
Christians should not bully because life is sacred and belongs to God; to bully is to disrespect God’s
creation.
Christians are taught by the Bible to ‘Love thy neighbour’; bullying does not show care and
compassion.
The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats teaches Christians they should treat the weak and vulnerable as
though they were Jesus himself. This leaves no place for bullying.
Bullying is a form of suffering. Bullies have often been victims themselves. Bullies are in need of
support and reform more than criticism.
Choose one religion. Explain its teachings about war. (6) (2021)
Christianity:
In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus said ‘Blessed are the peacemakers’ suggesting that peace was
always to be preferred to war.
Jesus also taught Christians to ‘Love your enemies’. If a person truly loved his enemy they could not
take up arms against him.
34
Quakers have an absolute commitment to non-violence. They teach that ‘the spirit of Christ will never
move us to fight a war against any man with outward weapons’. As a result they are absolute pacifists
and will not fight even when a country imposes conscription.
Some Christians are prepared to fight in a just war as the lesser of two evils. They base this stance on
the teaching of Jesus who said ‘If you don’t have a sword sell your cloak and buy one’ suggesting that
in some circumstances war is necessary.
Choose one religion. Explain why its followers do not agree with bullying. (6) (2022)
Christianity:
Many Christians are opposed to capital punishment because of the commandment ‘Do not kill’. They
believe this fundamental law should not be broken under any circumstance.
Some cite the example of Jesus who refused to use violence in any situation. Christians should
therefore follow his example and not use violent punishments.
Some Christians support the use of capital punishment using scriptures such as ‘Whoever sheds the
blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed’ (Genesis 9:6) to justify capital punishment as just
retribution ordained by God.
Jesus did not condemn the practice of capital punishment. When Pilate had to decide whether to crucify
Jesus, he tells Pilate that the authority to make the decision has been given to him by God (John 19:11)
and therefore those who delivered Jesus to Pilate are guilty of a greater sin.
Choose one religion. Explain the importance of forgiveness in this religion. (6) (2022)
Christianity:
Christianity is based on the concept of forgiveness; all have sinned so without God’s forgiveness there
can be no redemption or salvation.
Jesus taught that if Christians do not forgive then God, in turn, will not show mercy to them.
Christians are encouraged to seek to forgive others. Peter asked Jesus how often he should forgive his
brother. Jesus replied ‘up to seventy times seven’ showing that Christians should always forgive.
Christians believe God created a peaceful world and forgiveness is needed to enable everyone to live
together peacefully as God intended.
“Capital punishment is never justified.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2019)

 A Christian may agree because the Bible says ‘Do not kill’ and it is God’s place to judge, not the
role of humans.
 An atheist may agree since, as there is only one life, each life is very precious and killing people
removes their opportunity to make restitution to society.
 The justice system is not foolproof, and countries which have capital punishment may execute an
innocent person. This damages the family of the wrongfully executed person and the justice system
itself.
 Some holy books, such as the Bible and the Qur’an, allow the use of capital punishment for the most
heinous crimes, such as murder .
 It acts as a deterrent to the rest of society; if a person is aware that the penalty for a crime is death,
they are less likely to commit the crime.
 Many people believe that justice should be reciprocal, based on ‘An eye for an eye’. If a person
murders someone the only just recompense is death.
Accept any other valid responses.
“All religious people should oppose conflict.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2019)
 Religions teach their followers to show respect and kindness to everyone, for example Jesus’
teaching in the Parable of the Good Samaritan. Violence is therefore never appropriate.
 Conflicts, even when they appear justified, often have unintended consequences. It is more important
for religious people to work towards reconciliation.
 Famous religious leaders in history have demonstrated what can be achieved by peaceful protest. For
example, Gandhi led a non-violent struggle for Indian independence from British Colonial rule.
35
 Many religious books command opposition to those who are perceived as wrongdoers e.g. the
biblical instruction to kill men found committing homosexual acts.
 Some religions require their followers to fight if called upon in Holy War. Historically, both
Muslims and Christians fought for control of the Holy Land.
 Some religious people believe in reciprocal justice based on teachings such as ‘An eye for an eye’
from the Torah. They would therefore see conflict as an appropriate response to an attack.
“All religious people should be pacifists.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2020)

Many would agree that all religious people should be pacifists, believing that God wants humans to live
together in harmony and that violence only leads to more violence.
Jesus was a pacifist. He refused to allow his disciples to defend him when he was arrested, even
healing an injured soldier.
It is possible to achieve great things through pacifist actions. Gandhi, for example, is credited with
bringing about the end of British colonial rule by peaceful means.
Not all religions are pacifist. Muslims, for example, are commanded in the Qur’an to fight in order to
defend Islam.
Many religious people will take up arms to fight for a just cause. The Second World War, for example,
was supported by many religious people to prevent the spread of Nazism.
Whilst conflict is never the preferred option violent action may be the only means of settling a long
standing disagreement, leading to peace and reconciliation.
“All sins should be crimes.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2020)

Many religious people would agree that all sins should be crimes. If a sin contravenes the will of God
then all sins deserve punishment, both to benefit the sinner and for the good of society.
Many Muslims would support this idea. In Islamic tradition the law of the land is firmly rooted in the
rules established by the Qur’an. This is still practiced in many predominantly Muslim countries.
Some think that if all sins were crimes then many of the evils of modern society could be avoided. For
example, if no-one committed adultery for fear of punishment, there would be a lower rate of divorce
and fewer individuals damaged in the process.
Some sins are impossible to legislate against. It is sinful to have lustful thoughts but only God and the
sinner are aware of the sin. It is impossible to have laws against what is unknowable.
Some actions may technically be sinful but, if performed with righteous intention, can be a good thing.
For example stealing food to feed a starving child. It does break the law, but it may not be regarded as
sinful.
To force an entire population of many religions and none to follow rules based on the concept of sin
would be, at best, unkind, and potentially contravene human rights and equality laws.
“Religion is the best hope for world peace.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)
Christian pacifists would agree with this as they believe that if everyone turned away from violence it
would lead to a more stable and peaceful world.
All religions see peace as the ultimate goal. This is supported by both teaching and example. Gandhi,
for example, led a peaceful protest against British rule.
Some faiths e.g. Buddhism are based around the concept that all living things are interconnected. If
everyone believed that violence would stop.
Some would argue that religion causes more conflict than it solves. They point to fighting between
rival groups within a faith, or between different religions as a source of conflict.
Religions do not wield the power and authority required to achieve world peace. Religious
organisations may contribute to negotiations but only governments working together have the authority
to uphold them.
Some would argue that the United Nations has done more to promote world peace than religion. It
brings together societies of all faiths and none, uniting them to work for the common good.
36
“Crimes are worse than sins.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)
Crimes address the problems that face society today. They are worse because they reflect the reality of
modern life rather than those things considered important when the holy books were written.
Crimes are usually offenses against other members of society that undermine the wellbeing of the
victim. Therefore crimes cost society time and money, whereas many sins do not.
A sin is an offense against the will of God. This must make them the most serious of all possible
transgressions.
Some may argue that sins are worse than crimes, since many sins are also crimes they attract a
punishment both in this life and the afterlife.
The law of England is largely based on the sins outlined in holy books, e.g. the Ten Commandments. If
religious sins are the template for the law they must be more important.
Some sins have grave effects but cannot be legislated against. Sins of omission, for example, cannot be
seen and judged by humans but they do have serious consequences in the afterlife, as illustrated in the
Parable of the Sheep and Goats.
“Religion is the best hope for world peace.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)
Many Christians would support this since the Bible says, ‘Those who love their children care enough to
discipline them.’ (Proverbs 13:24), so changing behaviour is an expression of love and concern.
The Paulist Prison Ministries, for example, work with prisoners with the aim of rehabilitating them into
society, in order that their behaviour changes and they contribute positively to the community.
Many may suggest that a punishment that makes a wrongdoer bitter and angry would make them more
likely to continue to do negative things if no attempt is made to change their attitude.
Others may suggest that it is more important to deter both the wrongdoer and wider society and prevent
repeat offences out of fear. Both the Bible and Qur’an permit retributive punishments which act as a
deterrent.
Punishment should also be seen to bring justice to the victim or their family. An ‘eye for an eye’
suggests equivalent punishment is the way to secure justice.
Currently many released prisoners reoffend. Some would suggest that punishment without reform just
leads to a cycle of wrongdoing that puts people back in prison when they repeat their crime.
“The death penalty may be the lesser of two evils.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)
Many religious people accept the death penalty as it is clearly permitted in their holy books. This
suggests that, at least sometimes, it may be the only way to give justice to the victim or their family.
Some crimes are too heinous to comprehend. In some religions some crimes are unforgivable, so one
could argue that in the absence of forgiveness capital punishment may be the lesser of two evils.
Some would point to the deterrent effect of the death penalty in reducing violent crime. Using capital
punishment may lead to the death of a convicted criminal but save many lives in the future.
Some Muslims may argue that the Qur’an does not demand capital punishment even for murder. Blood
money can be accepted by the victim’s family as an alternative method of providing justice and
forgiveness.
The Bible says ‘Do not kill’ and Jesus taught that all have sinned so all should seek redemption. It is
therefore more important to reform criminals so they can contribute to society.
There is evidence that capital punishment does not act as an effective deterrent and there is always the
risk of a wrongful conviction and execution. This may cause more harm than good by leading to civil
unrest.
37
Identify three ways religious people may promote the development of a multi-faith
society. (3) (2019)
 Accepting inter-faith relationships. (1)
 Welcoming people of other faiths into
the country. (1)
 Allowing the building of religious
38
buildings from other faiths. (1)
 Not attempting to convert those of
other faiths. (1)
 Holding shared worship services. (1)
Identify three ways women’s rights have improved in society. (3) (2019)
 Some countries have equal pay acts. (1)
 Many women can now vote. (1)
 Women can stand for public office. (1)
 Many women are able to choose their
career path. (1)
 More women are educated based on
ability. (1)
Identify three examples of discrimination. (3) (2020)

Racism (1)
Sexism (1)
Sectarianism (1)
Ageism (1)
Religious discrimination (1).
Identify three practical ways religious people can help the poor. (3) (2020)
They can volunteer at food banks (1).
They can work in vocations such as aid workers (1).
They can give to charity (1).
They can pay Zakah (1).
They can hold prayer vigils (1).
Identify three ways religious people may support human rights. (3) (2021)
Award one mark for each way identified up to a maximum of three:
Give charity (1)
Work in a vocational occupation (1)
Treat strangers kindly (1)
Volunteer at homeless shelters (1)
Campaign against unfair imprisonment (1).
Identify three ways society could support the poor. (3) (2021)
Access to a benefit system (1)
Free health care (1)
Access to employment (1)
Free education (1)
Access to childcare (1). Accept any other valid response.
Identify three religious attitudes to proselytisation. (3) (2022)

It is a religious duty to try to convert others (1)
It was commanded by Jesus (1)
It is always wrong (1)
There is no need to try to change others (1)
39
It is good to help those who are seeking
God (1).
Identify three reasons why some religious people may not support human rights. (3)
(2022)
Human rights may contradict the scriptures (1)
They permit same sex relationships (1)
They enable women to be leaders (1)
They may foster blasphemy (1)
They allow divorce (1).
Outline two examples of racial harmony in society. (4) (2019)

Award one mark for providing an example. Award a second mark for development of the example. Up
to a maximum of four marks.
 People of different races are educated together, (1) enabling friendships to develop between different
racial groups. (1)
 It is illegal to refuse to employ someone because of their race; (1) this encourages equal
opportunities for all. (1)
 There are people of many races in positions of authority in government, (1) for example America
had a President of Kenyan descent. (1)
Outline two non-religious beliefs about the treatment of the poor. (4) (2019)
 The poor should be treated with compassion, (1) since in many cases they are not responsible for
their poverty. (1)
 The poor should be helped, (1) to enable them to access education and training. (1)
 The poor in society should be supported; (1) benefits should ensure they achieve a good standard of
living. (1)
Choose one religion. Outline two reasons why many of its followers support human
rights. (4) (2020)
Christianity:
• The Bible teaches ‘Do not kill’ (1), so Christians wholeheartedly support the
right to life (1).
All Christians believe they have a religious duty to support their fellow humans (1), Jesus taught this in
the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats (1).
Jesus encouraged his followers to sell their possession and give the money to the poor (1). This
suggests to Christians that a fair sharing of the earth’s resources is essential (1).
Choose one religion. Explain two of its attitudes towards the role of women in society.
(4) (2020)
Christianity:
• Some traditional Christians believe women’s primary role is as wife and mother (1). She supports and
encourages her husband in his role as provider (1).
More liberal Christians may see the New Testament as influenced by the patriarchal times in which it
was written (1). They therefore believe in the equality of men and women in society (1).
Some believe women should enjoy equality of opportunity in society whilst their primary role remains
that of wife and mother (1). As a consequence many women choose to take career breaks when they
have a family (1).
40
Choose one religion. Outline two attitudes its followers may have towards people of
other religions. (4) (2021)
Christianity:
• Some Christians consider their tradition the true path to salvation (1). They evangelise those they
consider to be on the wrong path (1).
The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats suggests that God’s judgement is based on an individual’s
treatment of others (1). This suggests that it is possible for anyone to serve God even if they are not a
Christian (1).
Some Christians believe it is possible to find truth in other faiths (1). Some Christian theologians have
suggested an end to proselytising (1).
Choose one religion. Outline two attitudes its followers may have towards living in a
multi-faith society. (4) (2021)
Christianity:
Some Christians may enjoy living in a multi- faith society (1), because it would allow them to learn
about other faiths (1).
They may feel their faith is threatened by exposure to other beliefs (1), and their way of life may be
influenced by other practices (1).
They may fear that their children will turn away from the faith as they are exposed to alternative ideas
(1), and may fear their children will marry someone of a different religion (1).
Choose one religion. Outline two responsibilities its followers have in a multi ethnic
society. (4) (2022)
Award one mark for providing a responsibility. Award a second mark for development of the
responsibility. Up to a maximum of four marks.
Responses should be linked to a specific faith but the same responsibilities apply to all.
They should treat people of other races with respect (1), demonstrating the true nature of their faith (1).
They should teach the equality of all people (1), by treating everyone with love (1).
They should encourage inter-racial friendships (1), built on mutual tolerance and acceptance (1).
Choose one religion. Outline two attitudes its followers may hold towards interfaith
relationships. (4) (2022)
Responses should be linked to a specific faith but the same attitudes apply to all.
They would be happy to work with people of other faiths (1) on issues of shared concern (1).
They may reject them (1), believing that it risks their children or grandchildren no longer following the
family faith (1).
They may accept them (1) whilst expecting that any children should be brought up in the faith (1).
Choose one religion and explain what its followers believe about the status of women.
(6) (2019)
Christianity:
 All people were created by God and are therefore worthy of respect, and to be valued by society for
their abilities and the contribution they can make.
 Jesus had women followers and there is evidence that there were women leaders in the early Church,
therefore there is no justification to treat women as less than equal in society.
 The Church of England accepts that women are as able as men to serve God as leaders of the
Church, this serves as an example to the whole of society .
 St Paul taught that women should obey their husbands. Some Christians believe this means that
women should not hold roles where they have authority over men.
41
Choose one religion and explain why some of its followers support human rights. (6)
(2019)
Christianity:
 Christians treat everyone with equality and justice. Everyone was created by God and therefore has
value, so no-one should be denied their human rights.
 Jesus said ‘Love your neighbour as yourself’, so Christians should aim to ensure that everyone has a
good standard of living as they would want this for themselves.
 The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats shows Christians that the poor should be supported. When a
Christian feeds the hungry, or gives water to the thirsty, it is as though they do it for Jesus himself.
 The UN Declaration of Human Rights acknowledges the basic needs that all human beings share.
Christians would support this because it removes suffering.
Explain different religious attitudes to living in a multi-faith society. (6) (2020)

Some religious people embrace the idea of multi-faith communities as they provide an opportunity for
people of different faiths to live and grow together.
Some accept the right of those of other faiths to live amongst them whilst believing their role is to
convert them to the true faith.
Some reject the concept of religious pluralism, preferring to remain isolated to remain true to their faith
e.g. the Amish.
Some religious people are concerned by the possible dilution of their religious beliefs and practice,
which may encourage their children to leave their faith.
Responses that refer only to one attitude cannot proceed beyond Level 1.
Explain why religious people may disagree with some human rights. (6) (2020)
Some may see human rights as contravening the word of God, therefore the will of God should be
followed rather than the will of humans.
Rights such as the right to food and shelter cannot be guaranteed by the laws of humans; they are God’s
gifts to be bestowed as he chooses.
If everyone followed the law of God there would be no need for human rights laws, laws which support
a human’s right to make sinful choices cannot be supported.
The right of homosexual couples to equality under the law directly contravenes the beliefs of some
religions. To support the law would be to encourage sinful behaviour.
Explain non-religious attitudes to racial harmony. (6) (2021)

Some non-religious people see racial harmony as a way of respecting their fellow human beings, where
people are judged on their worth rather than their race.
Some see racial harmony as important as a means of maintaining peace in society, as everyone is
treated fairly.
Some non-religious people are isolationist and see their race as superior. There are still race crimes and
inequality of opportunity evident in society.
Some groups are concerned that racial harmony will undermine Britain’s tradition and heritage, as it
may increase the likelihood that children will marry those of a different cultural heritage.
Explain the responses religious people may have to changes in women’s role in society.
(6) (2021)
Some Christians support the changes. They believe God created both men and women so they have
equal value in God’s eyes and should have equal roles.
42
Some consider the roles of women to be defined by those rules given in the holy books. They may feel
threatened as women’s rights become established in law.
Some religious people consider their holy books to be influenced by the society of the age they were
written in and are therefore happy to modernise their attitudes in line with society.
Some people consider the changes in society of no relevance to religion. They therefore ignore the
changes maintaining their traditional attitudes towards women’s roles.
Explain religious attitudes to the treatment of the poor. (6) (2022)

Some believe the poor should be treated with kindness and mercy, as Jesus taught in the parable of the
sheep and the goats.
Some believe poverty is a consequence of sin. The poor therefore have a responsibility to confess their
sins and live a better life, then God will be merciful. As a result others are not required to support them.
Some believe poverty is a consequence of karmic debt. This must be repaid, so helping the poor does
not benefit them since the karmic debt is carried to the next life.
Some believe poverty is the result of exploitation and greed. They work to relieve the causes of poverty
for the good of all.
Explain the responsibilities many religious people believe they have to the poor. (6)
(2022)
Many religious people of many faiths believe they have a responsibility to care for the poor in both the
community and society. This is based in scripture, for example, the teaching of Jesus in the parable of
the sheep and the goats.
Muslims believe that their common faith unites them as a brotherhood. Muhammad taught that ‘He is
not a believer whose stomach is filled while their neighbour goes hungry’.
Sikhs believe that generosity and the sharing of earnings is a religious duty. The Guru Granth Sahib
teaches ‘One who performs selfless service without thought of reward shall attain his Lord and
Master.’ Therefore, many Sikhs help to provide food for all at the langar.
Some religious people believe that supporting the poor is best achieved by addressing the fundamental
causes of poverty, rather than simply alleviating the symptoms. They may work to address the
inequalities in society rather than give charity.
“It is more important to work for justice than give charity.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2019)
 St Augustine said that ‘Charity is no substitute for justice withheld’. This suggests that Christians
should first work for justice in the world but also be quick to give charity.
 Some suggest that charitable giving encourages a person to view the recipient as a helpless victim. It
is only when people are treated justly that they can achieve their full potential.
 Charity may make a religious person feel good about themselves, rather than addressing the more
difficult issues of why some people need aid.
 The Qur’an commands Muslims to give regular charity; this is therefore important for a person’s
spiritual development.
 Some would see every good act a person does as charity, therefore working toward a fairer
distribution of the world’s wealth would be a form of charitable giving.
 The Buddha said that charity given to those who are worthy of it is like a good seed sown in good
ground that yields an abundance of fruits. This shows that it is important to give charity as it benefits
the recipient.
“Religious people are the best hope for racial harmony.” (12) (2019)
 Racism remains a major issue in society since laws are still required to deter people from racist
actions. Religious people should act against all forms of racism to improve society for all.
43
 All religions have teachings which encourage racial harmony. For example, Jews were instructed to
treat strangers in their land as native born. In order to fulfill their religious duty they herefore need to
work actively for racial harmony.
 All religions have members who are from diverse races, and the way they are treated by the faith
provides a good example of anti-racism for society as a whole.
 The first duty for many religious people is to worship God,
therefore they may not be specifically involved in promoting racial harmony, but rather see converting
others to their faith as more important.
 Religious people do not have the power in society to bring about racial harmony, therefore the best
hope of achieving it is by concerted Government action, through education and law-making.
 Some religious people may feel that, in order to maintain religious integrity, they should remain
isolated as a community. This then acts as a barrier to racial harmony as others do not understand them.
“Women should be religious leaders.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2020)

Some religious groups find the concept of women religious leaders perfectly acceptable. For example
in the Church of England women have been able to train for the Priesthood for many years and there
are now women Bishops.
There is evidence from many faiths that there were women leaders in the history of the faith. In early
Islam it is believed women functioned as imams to mixed congregations, not just single sex
congregations.
In modern society there is much more consideration given to the role of women in leadership, and
legislation in place to encourage equality of opportunity. This, and a shortage of men coming forward
for the Priesthood, has fuelled the increase in women as religious leaders.
The Catholic Church, among others, only permits men to serve as priests. They base their views on the
fact that Jesus was a man and the priest represents Christ at the Eucharist.
In Islam the primary role of women, as outlined in the Qur’an, is as wife and mother. Whilst women
are allowed to pursue careers outside the home they are, in most mosques, not permitted to lead men in
prayer.
Many Christians believe that men are more suited to leadership based on the teachings of St Paul, who
said that women should be silent in Church. Women who wish to pursue a religious vocation can
become nuns or theologians.
“Prejudice and discrimination are the biggest problems facing society today.” Evaluate
etc. (12) (2020)
Some may agree as there is evidence of increased religious discrimination in a number of countries.
This may lead to forced migration and increases the numbers displaced as refugees.
As countries become less humane in their treatment of refugees those who have fled their country
because of discrimination then may find they are also discriminated against when they try to claim
asylum.
For many in more stable societies prejudice and discrimination continue to impact their daily lives. For
example, in the UK following recent terrorist attacks local Muslim communities were attacked outside
mosques.
Some would argue that the decline of religion is the biggest problem facing society today. Muslims, for
example, may argue that the Qur’an forbids prejudice and discrimination and if everyone followed
these beliefs there would be no problem.
Others may argue that pollution is the biggest issue facing society today. There is evidence of increased
air pollution effecting public health. Many would consider this demonstrates a lack of respect for God’s
creation.
Others may argue that the world faces a period of instability and when people feel insecure they are
more likely to be prejudiced against those perceived as ‘other’.
“Religions are biased in favour of men.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)

Many religions suggest that men are the preferred religious leaders. E.g. in the Catholic Church only
men can be priests.
44
Many holy books contain limited religious roles for women, often as wife and mother. These may limit
a woman’s capacity to pursue a career or education.
In Christianity St Paul says that women should be silent in Church, limiting women’s potential as
leaders.
Many religions offer equal rights to women as religious leaders. The Anglican Church in England, for
example, has women priests and bishops.
Many Muslims would argue that Islam upholds the rights of both men and women, and that the
traditional gender roles, whilst different, are of equal value.
Christians believe God judges them based on their faith not their gender. God is completely without
bias and people should follow this example.
Religious people should uphold all human rights.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)
Some Reform Jews believe that as society changes for the better religious rules should reflect the best
of society. They therefore modify their rules to demonstrate that human rights do not challenge the
Almighty.
Many religious communities have laws that pre-date human rights laws but do not contravene them.
The Qur’an, for example, upholds the idea of education for all.
All religions believe that the world should be ruled justly and fairly and that religious people should
abide by the law of the land. This should also apply to human rights laws.
Some Muslims believe the rules established by Allah are the best rules for humanity to live by. If
everyone followed Allah’s wishes there would be no need for human rights laws.
Some believe that the laws and traditions of their religion should not be amended in any way. They
believe, for example, that homosexuality is a sin, and people should be punished, rather than havetheir
sins enabled.
Some people, like Catholic Christians, believe that the tenets of their beliefs are threatened if they
change practice to conform to human law. For example since they believe the priest represents Jesus at
the Eucharist it is impossible for a woman to be a priest.
“Women and men should be equal in all things.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)
Many Muslims would say that Allah created all people and sees all equally. They point to the example
of the Prophet who treated women with kindness and respect in a way that was unusual at the time.
The Church of England, for example, extends equality of opportunity to religious roles so women can
be ordained as priests and bishops and lead men in worship.
Many non-religious people argue that as women have proven they are equal to men in academic
achievement so they should have the same level of opportunity and advancement in the workplace.
Some Buddhists believe a person can only reach enlightenment in the body of a man. As a result, in
some societies, women may be seen as lesser and treated accordingly.
In Islam though the Qur’an teaches equality and fairness it also lays down clearly defined roles for both
women and men in both the family and religion. They argue that though these roles are different they
are no less equal. However, this may limit women’s opportunity for equality outside the home.
Some Christian Churches point to the fact that Jesus was a man and only admit men to the priesthood.
The Catholic Church does not allow women to be ordained into positions of authority, basing this on
the teachings of St Paul.
“Disabled people have the same rights as others in society.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)
In some predominantly Muslim countries, such as Saudi Arabia, there is a strong focus on equality for
children with special needs. This is based on the teaching of the Qur’an and the practice of Muhammad
in treating people with respect.
Many Christian disability charities are major providers of disability services in the UK where these are
not funded by government. They are working to develop a disability and accessibility charter for
churches. They also deliver training on shaping dementia friendly churches.
Most Buddhists show compassion to the weak. They often donate to charities that aim to improve the
lives of those who are disabled, to ensure their rights are upheld.
45
The World Bank reported that charitable donations to benefit those with disabilities do not, in isolation,
promote equality for disabled people. Rather they lead to increased dependence and vulnerability of the
weakest in society, therefore denying them their rights.
In some societies disability may be treated as something very shameful, leading to some families
confining disabled people to the home.
Some Christians may view disability as a consequence of sin and therefore those who are disabled are
encouraged to repent and try to overcome their disorder. For example, in some parts of the world
people suffering from mental illness may be sent to prayer camps.
Paper 2: Religious Community: Islam

Outline two events that occurred when the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet
Muhammad. (4) (2019)
Award one mark for providing an event. Award a second mark for development of the event. Up to a
 The angel Jibril appeared to Muhammad, (1) and ordered him to recite. (1)
 Muhammad said he was illiterate (1) but he was given the power to read. (1)
 Muhammad was fearful and uncertain (1) but Jibril reassured him that he was to be the prophet of
Allah. (1)
Outline two teachings from the Prophet Muhammad’s final sermon. (4) (2020)
Award one mark for providing a teaching. Award a second mark for development of the teaching. Up
to a maximum of four marks.
Muhammad taught the importance of worship of Allah (1) and that those who did so would not be led
astray (1)
Muhammad said that women should be treated fairly (1), that wives have rights over their husbands (1)
46
He taught that Allah is the God of all people regardless of race (1) and said that an Arab has no merit
over a non-Arab (1).
Outline two roles of the Ulema for Muslims today. (4) (2021)
Award one mark for providing a role. Award a second mark for development of the role. Up to a
The Ulema consists of teachers of the Muslim faith (1). In Sunni Islam they interpret Islamic doctrine
(1)
The Ulema has the responsibility to act as guardian
of religious knowledge (1), to ensure it is not
corrupted over the passage of time (1)
The Ulema provides scholarly opinions when there
are disagreements about the application of Shari’ah (1) which they do by applying the principles of
qiyas and ijma (1).
Outline two ways Musims show respect for the Qur’an.. (4) (2022)
Award one mark for providing a way. Award a second mark for development of the way. Up to a
Muslims show respect for the Qur’an by listening attentively when it is being read out (1) showing
their willingness to learn its teachings (1)
Muslims do not eat or drink during readings from the Qur’an (1), because they believe the words to be
those of Allah (1)
They perform formal ablutions before handling the Qur’an (1) and also before they listen to a recitation
of the text (1).
Explain why the imam is important in Sunni communities. (6) (2019)

 The imam leads the prayers in the Mosque; standing facing the Qiblah, he helps to draw together the
community, and to ensure that their prayers are both unified and dignified.
 The imam is considered a teacher, and he will often preach a sermon at Friday prayers, which helps
the congregation achieve a fuller understanding of the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet.
 Many Sunni Muslims will visit the imam for spiritual and moral advice and support, because he has
an expertise in the understanding of the principles of Islam.
Explain the importance of the Qur’an for Muslims. (6) (2020)

Muslims believe that the Qur’an is the direct word of Allah revealed to Muhammad, and so they must
obey all its laws and teachings
They believe that as it is the final revelation, superseding all previous revelations; it therefore has
authority for all people for all time
They believe that there is great value and merit in learning the Qur’an by heart, as a mark of respect for
Allah, and so that they will not go astray in their actions.
Explain the importance of Muhammad as ‘seal of the prophets’. (6) (2021)

The title ‘seal of the prophets’ is recorded in the Qur’an and was given to Muhammad by Allah,
indicating that Muhammad is the last of the prophets
The title gives authority to the teaching and example of Muhammad, as recorded in the Sunnah, and
encourages Muslims to live in accordance with his words
Because Muhammad is considered the ‘seal of the prophets’, the prophecy he transmitted in the Qur’an
is considered to be a teaching for all people of all times, to be preserved from corruption.
47
Explain the importance of the Rightly-Guided Caliphs for the development of Sunni
Islam. (6) (2022)
Sunni Muslims believe the Rightly Guided-Caliphs were model leaders. Their association with
Muhammad meant that they were seen as faithful interpreters of the Prophet’s teachings, and his
intentions for the development of Islam
Sunni Muslims consider the 30 year reign of the Rightly Guided-Caliphs a time when Islam was able to
expand and consolidate, moving beyond Arabia to Persia and Egypt
The Caliphs were responsible for bringing important practical reforms, such as establishing a treasury,
and building roads and clean wells, which helped to form Islam into a viable state.
“The Prophet Muhammad is the only teacher a Muslim needs.” Discuss etc. (10) (2019)
The student must underpin their analysis and evaluation with knowledge and understanding. The
student will be required to demonstrate thorough knowledge and understanding as well as accuracy of
religion and belief when responding to the question and in meeting AO2 descriptors described below.
The student will develop responses using ideas/reasoning/arguments such as:
 Muslims believe the Prophet Muhammad was specially chosen by Allah to
pass on the revelation of the Qur’an, and that Allah says that Muhammad’s
example gives an indication of its demands.
 The teachings and example of the Prophet were collected in the Sunnah, and
these are available to Muslims for guidance and advice.
 Islam teaches that Muhammad is the ‘Seal of the Prophets’, meaning that his
prophecy completes and explains the teaching of all previous prophets.
 For Muslims, only Allah is good, and it is by obeying the teaching of the
Qur’an that Muslims can look forward to the reward of paradise.
 Muslims accept that there are other figures of authority for them to follow,
such as their parents and the local imam.
 Shi’a Muslims believe in the Imamate, divinely appointed successors to
Muhammad, who act as important guides to the interpretation of the will of Allah.
“The imam is an important leader for Sunni Muslims.” Discuss etc. (10) (2020)
For Sunni Muslims the imam plays an important role in leading prayers in the mosque, and often
delivers a sermon that helps to guide Muslims about how to respond to modern events
The imam is also seen as a teacher, and sometimes leads the local madrasah, helping young Muslims
learn and understand the Qur’an
Imams are chosen from people of good character, and some Sunni Muslims look up to them as
examples of how to live good lives in accordance with the will of Allah
There is no official clergy in Sunni Islam, and Sunni communities do not regard the imam as a religious
leader. They believe in a direct connection with Allah without need of an intermediary
Sunni Muslims who gather for prayer do not need to be led by an official imam, but can choose one of
their number to lead them on that particular occasion
Sunnis do not believe that imams are specially chosen by God as the successors of Muhammad and
therefore are not the only spiritual leaders.
“The Rightly-Guided Caliphs were essential to the development of Islam..” Discuss etc.
(10) (2021)
Sunni Muslims consider the Rightly-Guided Caliphs to be model leaders. Because of their association
with Muhammad, they were seen as faithful interpreters of the Prophet’s teachings, and his intentions
for the development of Islam
48
For Sunni Muslims the 30 year reign of the Rightly-Guided Caliphs was a time when Islam was able to
expand and consolidate, moving beyond Arabia to Persia and Egypt, due to their leadership
The Caliphs instituted important practical reforms, such as establishing a treasury, and building roads
and clean wells, which helped to form Islam into a viable state
During the reign of Umar there was a serious famine, and Umar ordered the construction of canals and
sea routes to facilitate the transport of food, and relieve the suffering of Muslims throughout the
Muslim world
Shi’a Muslims consider the first three Caliphs to have usurped the rightful inheritance of Ali,
Muhammad’s son-in-law, and consider their rule to have misdirected the development of Islam,
contrary to the wishes of Muhammad
Some Muslims might argue that the development of Islam was entirely in the hands of Allah, and came
about as he had pre-determined, and that it would be inappropriate to give credit to any human leader.
“The principles of ijma and qiyyas are essential for a complete understanding of
Muslim teaching.” Discuss etc. (10) (2022)
Many Muslims consider ijma an important concept in Islamic law because it helps to clarify areas of
uncertainty. When Islamic scholars are able to achieve a consensus about the meaning of disputed
texts, Muslims are more confident that their actions are moral
Some Sunni Muslims consider ijma to be the third fundamental source of Shari’ah Law, after the
Qur’an and Sunnah because, without it, it would not always be possible for them to understand the
intentions of Allah
Qiyyas is important for many Muslims because it helps them understand how to behave in matters that
are not directly addressed in the Qur’an or Sunnah. An example would be the moral acceptability of
IVF, something unknown in the time of the Prophet
The value of qiyyas is that it does not create new law, but uses a process of analogical reasoning from
the fist principles of law found in the principal sources. In this way the teaching is believed to be
faithful to the spirit of Shari’ah
Some Shi’a Muslims reject the process of reasoning to produce teaching, because they believe the
process is bound to be subjective, not always faithful to the will of Allah
For some Muslims there is a fear that any attempt to construct a teaching, when neither Allah nor the
Prophet have spoken on the topic, risks undermining the purity and unchangeable nature of the Qur’an.
49
Outline two practices associated with Hajj. (4) (2019)

Award one mark for providing a practice. Award a second mark for development of the practice. Up to
 Muslims on Hajj will wear white garments (ihram) (1) which is an expression of their desire for
purity. (1)
 They walk around the Ka’ba seven times (1) whilst repeating du’as. (1)
 They visit the valley of Arafat (1) where they will unite in offering praise to Allah. (1)
Outline two features of the celebration of Eid-ul-Adha. (4) (2020)

Award one mark for providing a feature. Award a second mark for development of the feature. Up to a
At Eid ul-Adha Muslims offer special prayers at the mosque (1) because Eid prayers must be offered in
congregation (1)
At Eid ul-Adha the meat of a sacrificed animal is shared with the poor (1) in remembrance of Ibrahim’s
willingness to sacrifice his son (1)
All members of the family dress in their best clothes (1), which is a sign of respect for the importance
of the day (1).
Outline two ways in which Madinah is important for Muslims. (4) (2021)
Madinah is important because it is the city to which the Prophet and his companions fled for refuge (1)
and it was where Muslims could first feel safe (1)
Madinah was where the Prophet established the first mosques (1). This allowed the Muslim community
to gather in prayer and to receive instruction in the Qur’an (1).
50
Muhammad is buried in Madinah (1) and it is therefore considered one of the holiest places in Islam
(1).
Outline two ways in which Makkah is significant for Muslims. (4) (2022)
Makkah is important as the birthplace of Muhammad (1). It is a place where the life of Muhammad can
be remembered (1)
Makkah is where Muhammad received the first revelation of the Qur’an (1); it is therefore considered
the place where Islam was first established (1)
Islamic tradition says that Ibrahim built the Kaaba in Makkah (1), therefore it is where Ibrahim and his
adherence to monotheism are remembered (1).
Explain why Madinah is important for Muslims. (6) (2019)

 Madinah is the city to which the Prophet and his companions fled when they were at risk in Makkah,
it became a place of refuge and safety for them.
 Madinah is the place where the Prophet was able to establish mosques, which allowed the Muslim
community to gather in prayer and to receive instruction in the Qur’an.
 Muhammad is buried in Madinah, and therefore the city is considered the second most holy place of
Islam, and a place of pilgrimage.
Explain the importance of Makkah for Muslims. (6) (2020)

Makkah was the birthplace of Muhammad and where he lived his early life. It is therefore a place
where the life of Muhammad can be remembered
Makkah is where Muhammad received the first revelation of the Qur’an, so is considered the place
where the religion of Islam was first established
According to Islamic tradition, the origins of Makkah go back to Ibrahim who built the Kabah, so it is a
place where Ibrahim and his adherence to monotheism are remembered.
Explain the importance of Eid-ul-Fitr for Muslims. (6) (2021)

The Qur’an was first revealed during Ramadan, and the celebration of Eid ul-Fitr is an opportunity for
Muslims to thank Allah for this gift of his guidance
Eid ul-Fitr was established by the Prophet to end the fast of Ramadan, so it is a holy and joyful
occasion, one which helps Muslims feel grateful for the good things they enjoy
Eid ul-Fitr is a communal celebration which includes acts of generosity towards those in need, so that
all can take part, thereby strengthening the ummah.
Explain the importance of the Hajj for Muslims. (6) (2022)

Going on hajj is considered important because it is one of the religious obligations on all Muslims. It is
commanded in the Five Pillars, for example, and the Ten Obligatory Acts, and so represents the will of
Allah
Hajj is considered an opportunity for Muslims to strengthen their faith in Allah and to renew their
commitment to Islam, because it is a time of self-reflection and repentance
Muslims believe that hajj promotes the bond of Islamic brotherhood and sisterhood, the ummah, and
encourages a sense of unity and commitment.
51
“Eid ul-Fitr is the most important Muslim festival.” Discuss etc. (10) (2019)
 The Qur’an was first revealed during Ramadan, the celebration is an
opportunity for Muslims to thank Allah for this gift.
 Eid ul-Fitr is a celebration established by the Prophet to end the fast of
Ramadan, so it is a holy and joyful occasion.
 In Muslim countries, Eid ul-Fitr is a national holiday; it is a communal
celebration which includes acts of generosity towards those in need so that
all can take part and strengthen the ummah.
 Eid ul-Fitr is just one of two major Sunni festivals along with Eid ul-Adha,
which recalls the obedience of Abraham, and some Muslims would say that
both are of equal importance.
 Eid ul-Adha is a festival that marks the willingness of Muslims to surrender
their will to that of Allah, which is the very meaning of the Muslim faith.
 Some Muslims also celebrate many days associated with events from the life
of the Prophet, and these should also be considered important because the life of Muhammad is seen as
the perfect example for Muslims to follow.
“Madinah is the most important city for Muslims.” Discuss etc. (10) (2020)
Madinah may be considered the most important city for Muslims because it is where Muhammad built
the first mosque, this symbolises the time when Muslims could first pray and worship Allah openly and
without fear
Madinah is the city to which the Muslims migrated to escape persecution, and is therefore of great
spiritual significance for Muslims as the place where Islam could be established and begin to grow
Madinah is a place of special respect for Muslims as the final resting place of Muhammad, as well as
the early Caliphs Abu Bakr and Umar
Some Muslims might argue that there are many cities that are important for Muslims for different
reasons, including Makkah and Jerusalem, and that there is no value in judging one more important
than another
Many Muslims would say that Makkah is the most important Muslim city, as it is the place of the first
revelation of the Qur’an, which they believe to be the final revelation of the will of Allah
Makkah could also be considered the most important city because it is at the heart of the Muslim Hajj,
where many of the religious duties of Hajj are performed, whereas it is not essential to visit Madinah.
“All Muslims should visit Makkah during their lifetime.” Discuss etc. (10) (2021)
Many Muslims believe it is important to visit Makkah because it is the holiest Muslim city, the place of
the first revelation of the Qur’an, which they believe to be the final revelation of the will of Allah
Makkah it is at the heart of the Muslim Hajj, where many of the religious duties of Hajj are performed,
and Muslims are expected to go on Hajj at least once during their lifetime
Many Muslims may think it important to visit Makkah because it is an opportunity to reflect on their
faith and to renew their commitment to living according to the teaching of Allah
According to Islamic tradition, the origins of Makkah go back to Ibrahim who built the Kaaba, so it is a
place where Ibrahim, and his adherence to monotheism, can be remembered
Islamic teaching respects the fact that some people are unable to travel to Makkah, and other holy
places, because of poverty or infirmity, and no blame is attached to those who cannot make a visit
52
The heart of Islam is for Muslims their surrender to the will of Allah, to live according to the Qur’an
and the Sunnah of the Prophet, and some Muslims may argue that visiting Makkah is not necessary to
undertake these obligations.
“Eid ul-Adha is the most important Muslim festival.” Discuss etc. (10) (2022)
Eid ul-Adha is an important festival because it marks the willingness of Muslims to surrender their will
to that of Allah, which is the very meaning of the Muslim faith
It celebrates the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son, which shows his obedience to Allah and
demonstrates the mercy of Allah when he provided an alternative sacrifice, saving the life of Ibrahim's
son
It is an essential feature of the hajj. Some Muslims consider it to be the culmination and the most
important part of the pilgrimage
Eid ul-Adha is just one of two major Sunni festivals along with Eid ul-Fitr, which was established by
the Prophet to end the fast of Ramadan, and some Sunni Muslims might say that both are of equal
importance
Some Muslims may consider Eid ul-Fitr more important because the Qur’an was first revealed during
Ramadan, and the celebration of Eid ul-Fitr is an opportunity for Muslims to thank Allah for this gift of
his guidance
Some Muslims also celebrate many days associated with events from the life of the Prophet, and these
should also be considered important, because the life of Muhammad is seen as the perfect example for
Muslims to follow.
Outline two practices associated with Jum’a prayers. (4) (2019)

Award one mark for providing a practice. Award a second mark for development of the practice. Up to
 Muslims will perform a ritual wash (wudu) before praying (1) as a sign of the importance of purity
when coming before Allah. (1)
 The prayers consist of a series of rak’as (1) which involves prayers and an act of submission to
Allah. (1)
 The imam will preach a sermon (1) which will help Muslims interpret the Qur’an for contemporary
issues. (1)
Outline two internal features of a mosque. (4) (2020)

A mosque has a Mihrab (1) this guides the direction of prayers toward Makkah (1)
There is a prayer hall (1), this area is where
Muslims can prostrate in prayer in a clean
space (1)
Before reaching the prayer hall there is a
washing area (1), where Muslims can perform wudu in preparation for prayer (1).
Outline two ways mosques are used by Muslims today. (4) (2021)
Many Muslims go to the mosque to celebrate Jum’a prayers (1) as a mosque is a Muslim place of
worship (1)
Muslims visit the mosque to seek guidance (1), because the mosque is usually the base for the local
imam (1)
53
Young Muslims often attend the mosque to be taught the words and meaning of the Qur’an (1). Many
mosques will have space set aside for the instruction of children (1)
Outline two features of Muslim birth ceremonies. (4) (2022)

The adhan is whispered into the baby’s ear by their father (1) which is the moment when the child first
hears the command to worship Allah (1)
It is the occasion when the child is named (1) with a name that reflects an active commitment to the
Muslim faith (1)
Date juice may be rubbed on the baby’s mouth (1) so that their first taste is of something sweet (1).
Explain why the five daily prayers are important to Muslims. (6) (2019)
 The five daily prayers (salah) make up one of the Five Pillars of
Islam, and are considered one of the foundations upon which a
Muslim builds their faith.
 By praying at set times each day, a Muslim unites with fellow
Muslims all over the world in a united act of worship, which
strengthens the ummah.
 The combination of words and actions performed throughout the day
indicate that a Muslim has submitted their mind, soul and body to Allah.
Explain the importance of the marriage ceremony for Muslims. (6) (2020)
Signing the legal contract between a Muslim man and woman is important because it indicates their
consent to the marriage and that they are acting freely
The legal document is also important because it outlines the different responsibilities of the man and
woman in the marriage, such as the obligation to provide for the family
The payment of mahr, a form of dowry paid by the groom to the bride, is an important part of the
marriage because it demonstrates the financial solvency of the groom and therefore his ability to fulfill
his duty of care.
Explain the importance of Jum’a prayers for Muslims today. (6) (2021)
The obligation to celebrate Jum’a prayers is important because it is recorded in the Qur’an, the express
will of Allah, and also confirmed by the teaching and example of the Prophet
Jum’a prayers take place on the day set aside in the week for a particular focus on the worship of Allah,
and the sermon reminds Muslims to be faithful to him above all other duties
Muslims often celebrate Jum’a prayers in the mosque, which allows them to worship Allah as a
community, and helps to strengthen the ummah.
Explain why the design of mosques may differ from one Muslim community to another.
(6) (2022)
Some mosques are built in predominantly Muslim countries, and these are often grand, elaborate
buildings that are designed to reflect the culture and beliefs of the society
When Muslims live in non-Muslim countries they can find it difficult to build new mosques, and in
such places mosques are simple buildings that have been adapted from other uses
During the expansion of Islam, some churches and temples of other religions were taken over and
turned into mosques, and therefore reflect many different cultural and architectural designs.
54
“The most important purpose of a mosque is as a place of worship.” Discuss etc. (10)
(2019)
 Mosques date back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad, who said that
they would be important centres for prayer and worship.
 The mosque provides an opportunity for Muslims to pray together, which
symbolises the unity of Islam in the ummah.
 Mosques have been specifically designed to aid worship, with washing
facilities, carpeted floors and the mihrab facing the direction of Makkah.
 Mosques function as centres for the community, where Muslims can go to
receive advice and support.
 Muhammad established mosques to be also places of education, where
Muslims can deepen their understanding of the teaching of the Qur’an.
 Some mosques fulfill the needs of the community, for example by providing
food banks and language classes.
“Mosques are essential to Muslim communities.” Discuss etc. (10) (2020)

Many Muslims consider mosques to be essential to Islam as they are the means by which proper
Islamic worship and knowledge are imparted and error can be corrected
Mosques are considered of great importance in Islam because establishing mosques was one of the first
actions of Muhammad following the Hijrah, and are a symbol for Muslims that they are able to worship
Allah openly
Mosques allow Muslims to come together for Friday prayers and festivals, which is an important
witness in Islam of the unity of the ummah in the worship of Allah
Mosques are very important places that provide a focus for, and help to unify the Muslim community,
as places of education and for social gatherings
Although Muslims are encouraged to go to the mosque for Friday prayers, some Muslims argue that
this is not essential, and that Muhammad said that any clean place could be used for prayer
In some countries Muslims cannot practice their religion openly, and in these circumstances are
permitted to pray, teach and socialise in their own homes, without offending against Shari’ah law.
“For Muslims, birth ceremonies are more important than death rituals.” Discuss etc.
(10) (2021)
Birth ceremonies may be considered the most important because they are the moment when the child
first hears the command to worship Allah alone, when the adhaan is whispered into their ear
Many Muslims may consider birth ceremonies the most important because they introduce the child to
Islam, an occasion marked by naming the child with a name that reflects a positive commitment to the
Muslim faith
For Muslims, life is looked upon as a test from Allah, and the birth ceremonies symbolise the support
that the child will be given by their family and the Muslim community, to live a moral life that accords
with the teaching of the Qur’an
Birth ceremonies are often considered more important because they occur during a person’s lifetime,
following which time they are able to make moral choices and affect their judgement by Allah, whereas
upon death a person is unable to influence their fate
Some Muslims may argue that the rituals that follow death are the most important because they preceed
the time when a Muslim has to stand before Allah for judgement, and Muslims pray that their loved
one will be forgiven and able to enter Jannah
Some Muslims will say that all the rites of passage in Islam are of equal importance because they all
are designed to support Muslims on a part of their journey towards Allah, and that there is no value in
claiming one is more important.
55
“For Muslims, worship at home is just as important as worship in a mosque..” Discuss

etc. (10) (2022)
Most Muslim prayer takes place in the home, a reflection of the command to pray five times a day,
including at sunrise when people first arise from sleep; many of these prayers inevitably take place at
home
The home is the most usual place of prayer for Muslim women, who generally do not attend the
mosque. Therefore, for Muslim women the home is important as the place where they can pray
regularly, and also teach their children the value of regular prayer
Muhammad encouraged Muslims to pray often at home, so that the homes should not become ‘like
graves’. It is seen as a way of dedicating home and family to the honour of Allah
The mosque provides an opportunity for Muslims to pray together, which symbolises and strengthens
the unity of Islam in the ummah
Muslim men are commanded to come together for Friday prayers in the mosque, which acts as a
witness to their faith, and allows them to listen to the teachings of the local imam
Mosques have been specifically designed to aid worship, with washing facilities, carpeted floors and
the mihrab facing the direction of Makkah, and are a place where Muslims can pray free from
distractions.
56

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Exam Questions & Mark Schemes Bank

Updated Feb 2022 Edited by MB

PAST PAPERS (WITHOUT MARK SCHEMES)..................................................................................... 5

GENERIC MARK SCHEMES............................................................................................................. 12

PAPER ONE: BELIEFS AND VALUES................................................................................................ 15

THE UNIVERSE, CREATION AND THE PLACE OF HUMAN BEINGS...................................................................15

PAPER 2: RELIGIOUS COMMUNITY: ISLAM....................................................................................47

ORIGINS AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE COMMUNITY....................................................................................47

Past Papers (without mark schemes)

Life and Death

Peace and Conflict

Rights, Equality and Social Justice

c) Explain the causes of human wrongdoing. (6)

Life and Death

f) Outline two different attitudes to homosexuality. (4)

Peace and Conflict

b) Outline two types of sins and their consequences. (4)

Rights, Equality and Social Justice

c) Explain different religious attitudes to living in a multi-faith society. (6)

c) Explain religious beliefs about immortality. (6) (2021)

Life and Death

b) Outline two differing attitudes to euthanasia. (4) (2021)

Rights, Equality and Social Justice

c) Explain non-religious attitudes to racial harmony. (6) (2021)

Peace and Conflict

b) Outline two religious attitudes to the importance of peace. (4) (2022)

Rights, Equality and Social Justice

a) Identify three religious attitudes to proselytisation. (3) (2022)

c) Explain religious attitudes to the treatment of the poor. (6) (2022)

Origins and their Impact on the Community

Celebration and Pilgrimage

Worship and Practice

Origins and their Impact on the Community

Celebration and Pilgrimage

a) Outline two features of the celebration of Eid ul-Adha. (4) (2020)

Worship and Practice

Origins and their Impact on the Community

Celebration and Pilgrimage

Worship and Practice

Origins and their Impact on the Community

Celebration and Pilgrimage

Worship and Practice

Paper One and Two: Three mark questions:

Four mark questions:

Paper One and Two: Six mark questions:

Paper One: Twelve mark questions

Identify three examples of selfishness (3) (2019)

Identify three characteristics of God. (3) (2020)

Identify three rights animals should have. (3) (2020)

Identify three root causes of wrongdoing. (3) (2021)

Identify three beliefs about predestination. (3) (2022)

Outline three possible responses to suffering. (3) (2022)

Accept any other alternative valid response.

Outline two religious beliefs about free will. (4) (2019)

Explain non-religious beliefs about free will. (6) (2020)

Explain the causes of human wrongdoing. (6) (2020)

Explain religious beliefs about immortality. (6) (2021)

“There is only one God’ Evaluate etc. (12) (2019)

“Everyone has an immortal soul.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2019)

“There is no proof that God exists.” Evaluate etc. (12) (2020)

“Humans are more important than animals.”Evaluate etc. (12) (2021)

“Humans will always cause conflict.”Evaluate etc. (12) (2022)

Identify three possible consequences of divorce. (3) (2019)