Religion and Life Exam : General Comments

1. Make sure that you know the Key Words; it is an easy way to get 8 marks overall.
2. When the (b) questions ask you to 'describe' or 'outline', they are looking for three facts e.g.
   Describe the main features of a religious upbringing.
   • Being baptised or christened
   • Going to church
   • Praying
3. When the (c) question asks you to 'explain' you must give information and then explain why it is relevant e.g.
   Explain how the search for meaning and purpose in life may lead to a belief in God
   • People often look for reasons to explain why we are here and what the purpose is for our lives, religious beliefs about creation such as those found in the Bible may lead them to believe that they were created by God and that is why we are here.
   • Sometimes unexplained things happen, these are called miracles and the only reason for their occurrence is that God has acted in the life of that person. This would lead to a belief in God.
   • The idea of death is very frightening because it is unknown, learning about religious views on life after death may lead to a belief in God.
   • Quite often when people suffer they turn to God in anger or question why it has happened to them, sometimes this anger turns to peace and they believe that they have been supported in their suffering by God.
4. In the (c) questions in which you have to explain one religion other than Christianity, you MUST name the religion and explain what the followers of that religion believe and why they do so e.g. ...because it is written in the Koran, part of their beliefs on the sanctity of life, taught by Mohammad.
5. The (d) questions start with a statement that has to be agreed or disagreed with and the reasons for your view given and then an alternative point of view explained. YOU MUST name one religion and give the view of followers of that religion.
6. Make sure that you answer questions in full sentences rather than bullet points or notes.
7. Questions are marked as Levels so marking is as follows:
   • A = 2 marks
   • B = 6 marks (2 marks/1 level for each point given)
   • C = 8 marks (2 marks/1 level for each point explained)
   • D = 4 marks (1 mark for each relevant point)
8. DO NOT LEAVE questions unanswered, have a go you may get at least one mark and have nothing to lose.
9. READ THE QUESTIONS VERY CAREFULLY and do a small spider gram before you start so that you do not repeat yourself or waffle on. You have 2 hours!
10. DO NOT MAKE arrogant assumptions about other peoples beliefs, you have probably misunderstood the teaching and you will only alienate the examiner. The only question that needs your point of view is the d question.
11. Section Five – You have been prepared for Religion and the Media so you will lose marks unless you specifically prepare for Question 10.

Revise Well and You Will Do Well - Good Luck