Key Stage 3
We start by recapping the fundamentals of Jewish beliefs that pupils should have explored at KS1/2 before exploring Jewish identity. This will help pupils respond to questions of Jesus radicalism in the summer term. Spring introduces pupils to Sikhi for the first time in RE, another monotheistic religion with some similarities to Judaism and Christianity but also clear differences. This will also inform pupils when it comes to engaging critically with the summer topic.
- Autumn: What is good, and what is challenging about being a Jewish teenager in the UK today?
- Spring: How are Sikh teachings on equality and service put into practice today?
- Summer: What is so radical about Jesus? Did Jesus exist?
Assessment:
- Autumn: 1 x knowledge and application check
- Spring: 1 x knowledge and application check
- Summer: 1 x knowledge and application check
We start with a study of core Islamic beliefs and Muslim identities in order to address misconceptions that regularly appear in the media. This then helps when investigating the benefits and challenges of living in the UK’s multicultural society. Year 8s end the year by exploring different ways of self-expression and then considering what matters to them; RE spends much time focusing on other people, but it’s important to ask pupils about their own ideas in the light of what they’ve learned.
- Autumn: What is good, and what is challenging about being a Muslim teenager in the UK today?
- Spring: The multicultural society
- Summer: How people in Cornwall express spirituality through art
Assessment:
- Autumn: 1 x knowledge and application check
- Spring: 1 x knowledge and application check
- Summer: 1 x knowledge and application check
Year 9s are led to consider some ultimate questions, and some of the answers put forward by religious and non-religious people. It is intended that analytical and critical thinking skills are developed in preparation for KS4. Again, the pupils are encouraged to put forward their own responses as part of their personal development.
- Autumn: How far does it make a difference if you believe in life after death?
- Spring: Why is there suffering and are there any good solutions?
- Summer: Should happiness be the purpose of life?
Assessment:
- Autumn: 1 x knowledge and application check
- Spring: 1 x knowledge and application check
- Summer: 1 x knowledge and application check