What will I be doing in this course?
Religion is an integral part of human experience and a
component of every culture. In Australia today, an appreciation of the
multicultural nature of society is limited without an adequate
understanding of religion, its influence on human behaviour and
interactions within a culture. Studies of Religion explore the diversity
of religious expression and experience and can provide students with
the opportunity to increase their awareness and appreciation of, and
respect for, the cultural diversity of Australian society.
This syllabus is based on an understanding of religion as a
distinctive answer to the human need for meaning in life. An
understanding of religion integrates, interprets and provides a
perspective for the human view of reality. Religion deals with daily
living as well as with the ultimate source, meaning and goal of life.
Religion generally is characterised by a world view that recognises a
transcendent dimension, or belief in divinity or powers beyond the
human and/or dwelling within. Certain beliefs, values and activities,
both personal and communal, are described as being specifically
religious.
Each of the major religious traditions is studied during
this course with particular emphasis placed on Christianity which is
studied in each of the three sections listed below. This allows for the
heritage and ethos of our Catholic school communities to be woven into
the fabric of a broader study.
Preliminary Course
Consists of six parts, all of which are COMPULSORY
The Nature of Religion and Beliefs |
Religious Tradition Study 1 |
Religious Tradition Study 2 |
Religious Tradition Study 3 |
Religions of Ancient Origin |
Religion in Australia pre-1945 |
The Religious Tradition Studies will be based on
Christianity and either Hinduism, Islam, Judaism or Buddhism. In these
studies, students learn about the origins, the principal beliefs, the
sacred texts and writings, core ethical teachings and personal devotion
of each respective religious tradition.
HSC Course
Consists of six parts, all of which are COMPULSORY
Religion and Belief Systems in Australia post 1945 |
Religious Tradition Depth Study 1 |
Religious Tradition Depth Study 2 |
Religious Tradition Depth Study 3 |
Religion and Peace |
Religion and Non-Religion |
The Religious Tradition Studies will be based on
Christianity and either Hinduism, Islam, Judaism or Buddhism. In these
studies, students learn about the significant people and ideas, the
ethics, the significant practices in the life of adherents to each
respective religious tradition.
What should I be able to do at the end of this course?
Students will develop a broader understanding of the
diversity of religious beliefs and traditions within Australia. At the
end of this course students should be able to demonstrate skills in
investigation, analysis and evaluation of the influence of these
religions within Australian society.
How will this course help me in the future?
Studies of Religion II provides a flexible structure within
which students can prepare for further education and training,
employment and full and active participation as citizens. It enables
students to foster an informed view of the diversity of religious
practices and their place in our multicultural society.
This course is relevant for students now and in the future,
especially for those interested in pursuing careers in counseling, the
legal profession, social work, teaching, journalism and foreign
affairs.
How will I be assessed?
A range of assessment tasks are used in both the Preliminary
and HSC courses including knowledge tests, extended responses,
research assignments and oral tasks.