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.