New Understanding Humanism resources to support inclusion of non-religious perspectives in Religious Studies GCSEs.
Understanding Humanism has launched a new set of resources to support the inclusion of non-religious perspectives in religious studies (RS) GCSE exams. The materials include guidance on how students can be supported to provide humanist views on the topics featured in the exam specifications, as well as model answers and information about where to find further helpful resources.
Research shows that, while questions about non-religious views appear in all the RS examination papers, students’ answers about them are often weak, costing them marks. The new resources have been developed in consultation with all the major exam boards to address this, and provide the content and guidance necessary to help students achieve better grades. They cover a range of themes, with a particular focus on how humanists might approach ethical questions.
With around half the UK population identifying as non-religious, the resources will also support students to develop a better understanding of the landscape of beliefs and values in the UK today.
Director of Understanding Humanism Luke Donnellan commented:
‘We know that this is an area that students struggle with and it’s costing them marks in their GCSE examination. We hope these resources will be a valuable tool for teachers to support their pupils to achieve better grades. It is also vital that all young people have the opportunity to learn about humanism as part of a broad and balanced education about religion and worldviews in order to prepare them for life beyond school.’
The new resources are available to download for free from the Understanding Humanism website.
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For further comment or information, media should contact Humanists UK Director of Understanding Humanism Luke Donnellan at education@humanists.uk or phone 0207 324 6070.
Humanists UK is the national charity working on behalf of non-religious people. Powered by over 150,000 members and supporters, we advance free thinking and promote humanism to create a tolerant society where rational thinking and kindness prevail. We provide ceremonies, pastoral care, education, and support services benefitting over a million people every year and our campaigns advance humanist thinking on ethical issues, human rights, and equal treatment for all.
Understanding Humanism is Humanists UK’s education service, supporting teachers, parents, and pupils to study humanism as an example of a non-religious worldview. Through understandinghumanism.org.uk, we offer free school speakers, classroom resources, and training to support high-quality lessons about humanism.