Download AS Hinduism


GCSE RE
OUTLINE SCHEME OF WORK.

Words in bold type refer to basic key terms that should be
understood.
NB. While only the major class-set text books are referred to here, a
large number of other resources exist for both areas of the topic.
Teachers should tailor their use of resources to the needs of the
group!
Area of
study
Key concepts to be covered
The Sanctity
of Life.
1) Sanctity of life. The key idea is
that life is precious; generally
considered so in most
societies. Christians tend to go
beyond this, and see it as
“Sacred”; i.e. special because it
is given by God. This is
particularly true of Human Life.
Biblical quotes:
Psalm 139:13-16.
Genesis 1:26-27
1 Corinthians 3:1617
Deuteronomy 5:17.
Jeremiah 1:5
Xtian perspectives,
p30-31.
2) Abortion. Define abortion.
Outline the key issues
surrounding abortion; when
does human life begin; at what
stage does this activity become
the killing of a human? Outline
the two main points of view;
Pro-Life & Pro-choice (n.b. not
“pro abortion” per se). Include
information on groups; Life,
SPUC, BPAS. Then cover
Christian attitudes to both of
those. Including Church
teachings (esp Humanae vitae).
Remember to cover the sorts of
things that Christians can do,
to express their point of view.
Key idea; , for pro-choice.
Powerpoint; “When
does life begin”
Abortion clinic
video.
Abortion law
handouts.
Biblical quotes:
Pro-Life:
Psalm 139:13-16.
1 Corinthians 3:1617
Deuteronomy 5:17.
Jeremiah 1:5
Pro-Choice:
Matthew 5:44.
Matthew 7:1
Internet research
on groups.
Xtianity in today’s
world,15-19 Xtian
perspectives, 36-42
Attitudes to
Abortion

Resources
3) Fertility treatment & IVF &
embryology. Outline the key
facts of this area; then explore
moral issues; is this always just
good? Re-cap pro choice\ pro
life views, most of the
Christian points of view are the
same as for abortion.
4) Euthanasia. Dying & it’s nature.
Describe what euthanasia is. 4
Main types;
 Active
 Passive
 Voluntary
 Involuntary
Then explore the arguments for
and against. Many of these are
based upon previously discussed
ethical arguments. Cover the
Hospice movement in some detail;
particularly relevant as
established as a Christian
response to the possibility of
euthanasia.
Biblical quotes:
As above
Xtianity in today’s
world, p12-14.
Xtian perspectives,
p34-35
Video; Herbie’s
death.
Re-cap on life after
death work in year
9.
Biblical quotes:
1 Corinthians 3:1617
Deuteronomy 5:17
Matthew 5:44.
Matthew 7:1
Xtianity in today’s
world,p 20-25
Xtian perspectives,
46-50.
How do
Christians
put these
beliefs into
action?
In discussion they might show their opinions, and
justify those by appeal to the Bible.#
Pro-Life
 Join pro-life organisations & be active within it:
Writing, Preparing websites etc.
 Take part in protest activities, including writing to
MPs, marches, picketing clinics etc.
 Lobby to change laws (particularly the USA).
 Pray about the issue – asking for God’s help for the
foetuses & pregnant women.
 Lobby for proper sex education, organise education
for young people, work as counsellors and
volunteers.
 Offer financial support to those considering
abortion.
 Suggest Adoption.
Pro-Choice.





Practice
Exam
questions
Join a group campaigning for the right to choose.
Support organisations offering counselling.
Explain point of view referring to scripture.
Pray
Prioritise sex education.
a) Describe Christian teaching which might be used
in a discussion about Abortion.
b) Explain how a Christian might respond to someone
who asked for euthanasia to end a painful illness.
c) “Doctors should preserve life in all circumstances”
Do you agree? Give reasons to support your
answer and show that you have thought about
different points of view. You must refer to
Christianity in your answer.
a) Describe and explain Christian teachings that
might be used in a discussion about abortion.
b) Explain how Christian teachings might affect
attitudes towards using contracpetion.
c) “Llife and death are personal matters and nothing
to do with religion”. Do you agree? Give reasons to
support your answer and show that you have
thought about different points of view.
Coursework
a) 1) When does life begin?
Make sure that you include different ethical and legal issues.
2) What Biblical and Church teachings might Christians bring to a
discussion about when life begins?
b) The British Pregnancy Advisory Service plan to build a new clinic
in Devon.
Write two letters to the editor of the Western Morning News:
 From a concerned Christian who believes that abortion is always
wrong.
 From a concerned Christian who believes that it is important that
this service will enable young women to exercise their choice.
Try to express their ideas as carefully and thoroughly as possible,
using ideas from the Bible, and Christian tradition.
c)"Life is precious & sacred from the moment of conception." Do
you agree? Make sure that you give reasons to support your answer.
Make sure that you include different points of view, and that you
refer to Christianity in your answer.
Buddha &
Dharma

Introduce with the concept of the
3 Jewels \ Refuges.
Buddha (the enlightened one)
Dharma (the teaching)
Sangha (the community)
Why might Buddhists consider
these to be “Jewels \ refuges”.
The life of the Buddha; brief
biography concentrating on
upbringing, the four sights, and
the reaction to that culminating in
enlightenment.
Powerpoint; the 3
Jewels. & Handout,
the 3 refuges.
Powerpoint; the
life of the Buddha
Video; the
animated life of
the Buddha.
“Buddhism a new
approach”, p8-12
What is enlightenment like?
“Buddhism a new
approach”,p.13.
Powerpoint;
“Candle”
Then cover the basics of the
dharma:
3 Marks of life:
Anicca (Impermanence)
Anatta (no self) & Skandhas
Dukkha (Life is unsatisfactory)
“Buddhism a new
approach”,p20-21
“Looking for
Happiness”
particularly helpful
on Anatta.
&“Buddhism a new
approach”, p26.
Video “Belief file –
Impermanence”
4 Noble truths:
Dukkha
Samudaya \ Tanha
Nirodha
Magga
Noble 8 fold path;
Right View, Intention, Speech,
Action, Livelihood, Effort,
Mindfulness, Concentration.
Divided according to Prajna
(Wisdom), Sila (morality), Samadhi
(Mental training).
Group research & presentation
may effectively be used for this.
Other key ideas –
Karma & Re-birth.
Rebecoming is the way that
Buddhists perceive ongoing
existence – it is not “you” that is
reborn, as there is no “you”, but
something subtle does contine.
Being born as a human is a rare
and precious event. The Tibetan
of Wheel of life, as an illustration.
Karma can be thought of as the
effects of positive and negative
actions continuing into the future
– not necessarily within one
lifetime.
Group presentation and reseach
may be used effectively for this.
“Buddhism a new
approach”, p22-23.
“Buddhism a new
approach”,p24-25
Video “Belief file” –
Meditation.
Powerpoint
The Buddhist
experience 16
Buddhism for
Today 38-39.
Animated wheel of
life – Buddhanet.
Buddhism a new
approach 22-26
The Buddhist
experience 16
Practice
Exam
questions
a) Outline the way that Buddha taught people to put
an end to suffering. (The Eightfold Path)
b) Describe and explain the Buddha’s teaching on the
reason for suffering (the Four Noble Truths)
c) “There is no such thing as a self” (Anatta)
Do you agree with this? Give reasons to support
your answer, and show that you have thought
about different points of view. You must refer to
Buddhism in your answer
a) What are the three Jewels \ Refuges of Buddhism,
and why are they important to Buddhists.
b) When Siddartha left his palace he saw four things
on the road, what were they, and why did they
have such an impact upon him?
c) “Western society is able to deal with illness,
suffering and death, so Buddhism has nothing to
teach us” Do you agree with this? Give reasons to
support your answer, and show that you have
thought about different points of view. You must
refer to Buddhism in your answer.
a) Describe the noble eightfold path.
b) Explain how Buddhists try to apply Right Speech in
their daily lives.
c) “You have to be a monk or a nun to follow the
eightfold path succesfully”. Do you agree? Give
reasons to support your ansewr and show that you
have thought about different points of view.
Relationships Begin with discussion of what

relationships are; use concentric
circle diagram to plot closeness of
relationships.
Sex
Contrast Conservative and Liberal
views, both supported by the
bible. Liberal view is that sex is a
glorious gift from God, for
enjoyment, and to celebrate loving
relationships. (Based upon “Song
of Songs”).
Conservative view is that sex is for
the procreation of children, within
marriage. (Based upon Thomas
Aquinas’ natural theology, where
things are described as good, if
they fit their purpose; for Aquinas
(a celibate) sex was for making
Song of Songs.
Xtianity in today’s
world,p36 & 37
Video “Belief file,
Issues- Sexuality”.
Video “WitnessSaving from
Homosexuality”
(Upper ability).
babies, anything else is wrong.
Also Pauline theology; the division
between  (flesh) and
(spirit). Paul taught that
Christians should overcome their
“fleshly” interests and appetites,
and strive to be more spiritual, for
him, celibacy is the ideal Christian
state). Humanae Vitae continues to
outlaw artificial contraception for
catholics.
Marriage. Christian marriage in
this country is a combination of
both Legal and Sacramental.
(Sacramental meaning that the
couple are joined by God, in a
permanent, spiritual union). The
Legal side may be broken by
divorce, the sacramental side,
generally speaking, may not.
Purposes of marriage;
 Mutual support & comfort.
 Bearing Children
 Right relationship for sex.
Ideas & symbols of a marriage
service.
Divorce & remarriage.
Recognising that sometimes
relationships do break down. The
teaching of Jesus; divorce to be
avoided. Church attitudes;
Catholic; No divorce, rarely an
annulment. Will not remarry
divorcees.
CofE; Up to the individual priest,
but generally, does not remarry
divorcees, but acknowledges that
sometimes divorce is a reality.
Methodist. Will re-marry
divorcees, tends to concentrate on
the forgiveness aspect.
Family relationships.
Different types of family; Nuclear,
Extended, Single. Discuss
“traditional roles” then use the
biblical quotations opposite to
Xtian perspectives,
14
What do you think
sheet.
Genesis 2:23-24
Matthew 5:31-32
Xtian perspectives,
15-17. & 24-27
Xtianity in today’s
world,p 38-39
Matthew 5:31-32
Xtian perspectives,
21-23.
Xtianity in today’s
world,p 43-44
Ephesians 5:22-24
Colossians 3:18-19
Galatians 3:28
Proverbs 31:1031:31
research Christian teaching on the
nature of family relationships.
This rather conservative view can
be counter pointed with
text book interview
material.
Ephesians 6:1
Exodus 20:12
Colossians 3:21
Proverbs 29:15 &
17
Xtian perspectives,
18-21.
Xtianity in today’s
world,p 40-42
How do
Christians
put these
ideas into
practice.







Practice
Exam
questions
a) Describe two different Christian Beliefs about
remarriage after divorce.
b) Explain how and why a Christian might support the
work of an organisation which provides counselling for
people who are having difficulties in their
relationships.
c) “There is nothing wrong with living together and
having children together without getting married”.
Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer
and show that you have thought about different points
of view. You must refer to Christianity in your answer.
Christians might pray together as a family.
Try to live their lives according to biblical teachings.
Support Family values.
Join church organisations to support the family –
Mother’s Union etc.
Work for RELATE , or CMAC.
Pray for, and counsel those suffering difficulties in
their marriage.
a) Describe Christian teaching about the relationship
between men and women.
b) Describe how a couple’s Christian faith might effect the
way that they bring up their children.
c) “Christians need the support of others to keep their faith
strong.” Do you agree? Give reasons to support your
answer and show that you have thought about different
points of view. You must refer to Christianity in your
answer.
The Sangha

Literally means “the community”
in the sense of the community of
all those practising the dharma,
but is usually used to describe full
time religious; monks (bikkhus)
and nuns (bikkhunis). (NB These
terms, and most of the others in
this section on the Sangha are
Therevadin; other traditions have
monasticism, but they are
sometimes very different).
Joining the Sangha.
Students should know about the
traditional requirements (healthy,
unattached & free from debt) &
ways of joining the Sangha;
dressing up as a young prince, to
symbolise Siddartha’s journey
through life. Reciting the three
Jewels & Ten precepts before an
older monk, then shaving the head
& donning an orange robe made of
three pieces of cloth. Limited
possessions; robe, alms bowl
(NOT begging bowl), needle, water
strainer & razor.
Video; Making of a
monk
“Buddhism a new
approach”,p79-84
Life in the Sangha.
Discipline, daily routine,
meditation, the alms round.
Vinaya pittaka & ten precepts
(recap the first five & then do the
rest). Uposatha days, role in the
community. Role of the Vihara.
Why monasticism?
The precious nature of Human
Birth, Therevadin teaching that
you have to make the most of it to
reach enlightenment.
Video; Making of a
monk
“Buddhism a new
approach”,p79-84
“Buddhism a new
approach”,p64-65
& 78-79.
Buddhism for
Today 42-43
The Buddhist
experience 12-13.
Practice
Exam
questions
a) Describe the ceremony in which a Buddhist becomes a
monk or a nun.
b) Explain how following the lifestyle of a monk or a nun
might help a Buddhist become enlightened.
c) “There is no need for monks and nuns in modern
society”
Do you agree with this? Give reasons to support your
answer, and show that you have thought about
different points of view. You must refer to Buddhism in
your answer.
Buddhist
Rites of
Passage &
Festivals
Generally speaking Rites of
passage are comparatively
unimportant in Buddhism. Anicca
and anatta mean that changes in
life are to be expected, not
celebrated. Also that there are far
more constant changes going on,
which rites of passage usually do

not mark.
While birth is celebrated, there is
no specific ceremony.
In many traditions, coming of age
is celebrated by entering the
Sangha, even if only for a short
while.
Modern World
Religions,
Buddhism
(Foundation) 44-45
Marriage services may be offered
by some traditions, and
celebrations take place, but for
many the Sangha & celibacy are
superior in the search for
enlightenment.
Modern world
religions,
Buddhism
(Foundation) 46-47
Death is marked; usually by
cremation, often with meditation
in front of the coffin or corpse, to
remind the mourners that Death is
inevitable for them as well. More
important teachers may have
their photographs placed upon
shrines, or a stupa built over their
ashes.
Death is more marked in
Vajrayana, with the practice of sky
burial, and belief in the Bardo
state which is intermediate
between this life & the next. (Also
Tulkus; direct reincarnations of
bodhisattvas)
Festivals:
Cover the main ones:
(Therevadin)
Wesak (commemorates
birth\enlightenment\death of
Buddha)
Vassa (commemorates the turning
of the wheel of the law)
New Year (symbolises fresh start)
(Mahayana)
O-bon (commemorates the
deceased)
Uposatha Days.
Days for the Sangha to meet and
read the 227 rules in the Vinaya
Pitaka.
Modern world
religions,
Buddhism
(Foundation) p4849
“Buddhism a new
approach”,p72.
Buddhism for
today 58-59
Sky burial
sequence in Video;
“Kundun”
“Buddhism a new
approach”,p117
“Buddhism a new
approach”,p79-84
“Buddhism a new
approach”,p88-89
“Buddhism a new
approach”,p102
“Buddhism a new
approach”,p84
Practice
Exam
questions
Prejudice &
Equality

a) Describe what Terevada Buddhists do on Uposatha
days.
b) Explain how pilgrimage might benefit a Buddhist.
c) “Festivals and pilgrimages are unneccessary”. Do you
agree? Give reasons to show that you have thoguht
about different points of view.
Start off with the literal meaning
of “Prejudice” – judging before
receiving information. The
underlying point for Christians is
a fundamental belief in equality,
although this may not have been
expressed in Christianity in the
past.
Racism.
Christian attitude is that racism is
unacceptable – all are children of
God, and should be treated
equally (though worth pointing
out that, in two notably racist
socieities – South Africa & USA,
the church was heavily invovled as
a racist oppressor).
Study of one of (preferably both)
Martin Luther King & Trevor
Huddlestone. Life &
accomplishments are important ,
but more important are the facts
that:
They did what they did because of
Christian belief, and their
technique (non-violence) was
inspired by Christianity as well.
Sexism
There is consdierable diversity in
Christian teaching here – some
churches contiue to be sexist in
that they take many of their
teachings direct from biblical
practices, refelcting a belief in
Female inferiority. Others are
more equal, concentrating upon
Biblical teachings that stress
equality. This may be seen in
such simple things as the
Christian
Perspectives, p5271
Leviticus 19:33-34
Deuteronomy
24:14-15
Luke 10:25-37
(Good Samaritan)
Colossians 3:11
Galatians 3:26-28
James 2:1-9
Christianity in
focus p49-53
Christian
Persepctives 59-61
Christian
Persepctives p 6570
Christianity in
focus 54-59
Exodus 20:17
1 Timothy 2:9-12
Judges 4:4-5
inclusion of “Obey” in the
marriage vows, or positions of
leadership.
Women priests in the C Of E – is
an issue that can be examined. Key
problems were –
Tradition, in the sense that Men
were traditionally priests, many
Christians feeling uncomfortable
about this departure.
Ecumenism – Unpopular with the
catholic traditon, therefore a
barrier to closer cooperation with
Rome.
Biblical teaching – Pauline
proscriptions against women
teaching in church.
Sacramental – the idea that
women could not represent Jesus
at the celebration of the Eucharist
as they were not male.
Homosexuality.
Spectrum of diverse opinions
within Christianity upon sexual
activity. Broad range from:
1. Homosexuality is absolutley
wrong- against the will of God,
unnatural and sinful.
2. Homosexual tendencies are
acceptable, sexual activity is
not.
3. Homosexaul relationships are
okay provided that they are
judged by the standards of all
human relationships.
4. Homosexuality is a wonderful
god-given gift to be celebrated.
How do
Christians
put these
beliefs into
action.
Christianity in
focus 45-48
Make a special effort not to judge people until they
know them
At work ensure that equal opportunities policies are
followed.
Bring up their children to share their points of view
Pray about these issues
Join organisations which work for equality.
Use political power to work for equality
Join peaceful protest.
Practice
Exam
questions
a) Describe and explain christian teachings that might
be used in a discussion about Gender equality.
b) Explain how and why some Christians have used
non-violent protest when working for justice.
c) “Helping to get justice for people is more
important than spending time in worship and
prayer” Do you agree? Give reasons to support
your answer and show that youhave thought about
different points of view. You must refer to
Christianity in your answer.
a) Describe the teachings that Christians might use to
support their attitudes to racial prejudice.
b) Explain how one well known Christian worked to
overcome prejudice and discrimination.
c) “People who want everyone to have equal rights
must be prepared to use violence”. Do you agree?
Give reasons to support your answer and show
that youhave thought about different points of
view. You must refer to Christianity in your
answer.
Meditation,
Puja,

Meditation.
Begin by referring back to earlier
work on the Sangha and Eightfold
Path. Meditation is one of the key
practices of Buddhism as it
encompasses Mindfulness &
Concentration. (Although to an
observer they may seem the same,
they are different mental
processes). Meditation is probaly
the most important thing about
being in the Sangha – people join
in order to have time and space to
learn to meditate properly.
Types of Meditation:
Samatha – Focussing the mind
upon one object of concentration,
usually selected to complement
the practitioner’s character,
beginners usually start with the
breath. May be done seated or
waling, may focus on one of the
Brahma Viharas (Sublime states)
 Metta – Loving Kindness
 Karuna – Active Compassion
 Mudita – Sympathetic Joy
Meditation sheet/
Modern world
religions
(Buddhism /
Foundation) 28-29.
Buddhist
experience 30-31
Buddhism for
today 36-37.
Buddhism, a new
approach 45
Buddhism, a new
approach 46
 Upekkha – Peace and Serenity.
Buddhism, a new
Vipassana practice focusses on
approach 47
examining your mind as though
you were an outside observer;
what is my mind doing, and why is
it doing it? Where do these
thoughts come from?
Mantras – powerful utterances.
Found in Vajrayana (Esp “Om
mane padme hum”) and Pure
Land (“Namu Amida Butsu”), as
well as more modern forms of
Buddhism such as Sokka Gakkai
(“Nyam Myoho Renge Kyo”). The
idea is that the repetition of the
mantra wears through the veil of
conditioning which prevents
enlightenment, like drops of water
eroding a rock.
Buddhism, a new
approach 48
Buddhism, a new
approach 49
Zazen.
Sitting meditaiton from the
Japanese tradition – probably best
left until covering Zen.
Tantric Visualisation.
Seeing significant images in the
mind to change consciousness –
leave until exploring Tibetan
Buddhism.
Puja
Sanskrit word meaning “worship”,
this is not actually what happens
in Buddhism, but it is usually
about respecting the acheivement
of the Buddha in reaching
enlightenment. Key idea is that
Puja involves the senses and
emotions in the quest for
enlightenment.
 Key features of a shrine room –
Buddha rupa
 Flowers
 Water
 Candles
 Incense
 Bell
Buddhism for
today 54
Buddhist
experience 26-29
Modern world
religions 30-31
Buddhism, a new
approach 50




Practice
Exam
questions
Schools of
Buddhism

Food
Scriptures
Toba (Japanese)
Photographs of spiritual
masters.
a) Describe the main features of a Buddhist Temple
b) Explain how visiting a temple might affect the life of a
Buddhist.
c) “Buddhists need to worship together” Do you agree?
Give reasons to support your answer, and show that
you have thought about different points of view. Refer
to Buddhism in your answer.
Therevada
Therevada.
information sheet
Therevada means “way of the
Buddhism, a new
elders”, as the name implies it is
approach, 79-89
probably the oldest form of
Buddhism, and the emphasis upon Modern world
religions 21
personal striving for
Discovering world
enlightenment through living in
religions,
the Sangha is close to the life of
Buddhism
the Buddha and his disciples. It is (Foundation 18-19
known as “Hinayana” by other
Buddhist
Buddhists – small vehicle, the
experience 14-15
Buddhism for
implication is that it can only
today 46-47
carry one person to
Video; Making of a
enlightenment. Most of the work
monk
that we’ve done so far looks at
Therevada, as it is the form of
Buddhism that has inspired the
most text books, so much of this
section will be revision.
Key areas to include;
 Sangha & Initiation.
 Pansil
 Punna (Skilful means)
 10 Precept living
 Puja & Buddha rupas
 Vihara
 Tripitaka
 Specific Festivals.
Mahayana.
Means “Great Vehicle”. The
implication is that you can
behelped towards enlightenment
by other beings, either physical or
spiritual. More people will make
it. A much broader group of
Buddhism for
today 46-47
Discovering world
religions,
Buddhism
(Foudnation) 18-19
Modern world
Buddhisms – including both Zen &
Pure land. Key idea is that of
Bodhisattva.
An enlightened being who has
postponed entering Nirvana to
remain and help other beings out
of compassion. These may be
physical living beings, or spiritual
beings who can be the focus of
meditation or worship.
For more able mention –
Pure Land Buddhism. This
concentrates on the worship of
Amida Buddha (a bodhisattva of
compassion) who will reward those
who chant his mantra (Namu
Amida Butsu) by allowing htem to
reincarnate in the “Pure land”
where practising the dharma is
very easy and enlightenment is
assured.
Vajrayana
The “Diamond Thunderbolt Way”.
Is the name of the buddhism of
Tibet. This is a tantric form of
Buddhism where the power of
enlightenment may be “magically”
transferred between beings. This
is colourful and loud – a great
contrast to the austerity of
Therevada. (Get JM to do a lesson
with Tibetan Artefacts).
Key ideas to Mention:
 Lamas, Initiation &
Empowerment
 Tantric practices –
visualisation, chod ritual,
“magical rites”.
 Dalai & Panchen Lamas /
Tulkus.
 Sky Burial, Bardo states
 Thankas
 Bodhisattvas & dharma
protectors.
 Mane stones
 Mantras (esp Om mane padme
hum).
 Mudras
religions 21
Buddhism a new
approach 91-101.
Vajrayana Sheets
The Buddhist
Experience 16
Buddhism for
today 48
Discovering world
religions Buddhism
(Foundation) 21
Buddhism a new
approach 105-118.
Videos –
Kundun
7 Years in Tibet
Michael Palin’s
Himalaya.
Wheel of life
powerpoint


Ritual implements – bells,
dorje, phurba, mala (often
made of human bone).
Padmasambhava & Milarepa.
Zen
Is an austere form of Japanese
Buddhism (the word “Zen” means
meditation) which emphasises
that enlightenment may arise
spontaneously from the prepared
or unprepared mind.
Key ideas to include
 Zazen (sitting meditation)
 Zendo
 Zen Garden
 Roshi
 Koan
 Life in a Zendo & Discipline.
For more able discuss
Zen outlook & teachings on states
of mind and meditation. Effect on /
by Japanese culture- how flower
arranging, Martial arts,
calligraphy etc may be Zen
techniques.
Western Buddhist Order
Founded by Ven Sangharakshita
(Denis Lingwood), who was
convinced that the west needed a
pure form of Buddhist Dharma
(without cultural accretions). WBO
emphasise the direct teacing of
the Buddha, while accepting a
variety of different practices from
different types of Buddhism that
may help individuals. Ordained
members can wear a Kesa (small
stone, with the 3 jewels symbol).
They may live in families, or
celibate communities. Emphasis
upon education and Right
livelihood businesses.
Buddhism a new
approach 103-104
The Buddhist
experience 17
Buddhism for
today 49
Discovering world
religions Buddhism
(foundation) 20
Sheets from “Zen”,
a beginner’s guide.
Buddhist
experience 18
Buddhism for
today 50
Discovering world
religions
Buddhism,
Foundation). 42-43
Buddhism a new
approach. 123.
Coursework
a) Therevada Buddhism
Zen Buddhism
Vajrayana (Tibetan) Buddhism
The Western Buddhist Order.
From the list above select any two types of Buddhism that you
have studied. Outline the important ways in which they are
similar to, and in which they are different from, one another.
b) Pick one of the types of Buddhism that you have written about.
Explain how the beliefs and practices that you have described
would help a Buddhist following that path to achieve
enlightenment.
c) ‘It does not matter which path a Buddhist follows.’
Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show
that you have thought about different points of view.
Practice
Exam
questions
a) What are the main beliefs of Tibetan Buddhism?
b) Explain how belief in rebirth might effect the belief of a
Tibetan Buddhist.
c) “In a religion, all people should worship in the same
way”. Do you agree? Give reasons to support your
answer and show that you have thought about different
points of view. You must refer to Buddhism in your
answer.
Environment.
Save the Planet
Introduce key Christian ideas
sheet
about the environment using the
Chief Seattle Sheet.
sheet. Key ideas are that the
environment is created by God,
who describes his creation as
"very good" (thereby implying that
Christians should value this
creation as precious"). For more
able introduce the idea of
"Transcendence" (God being
outside, or above the physical
universe) and "Immanence" (God
being within / permeating the
physical universe; there is a
quotation from the non-canonical
gospel of Thomas which illustrates
this idea).
Key idea for Christian
responsibility is "Stewardship".
The idea is that Humans are God's
stewards (i.e. God owns the world,
and Humans are responsible for
looking after it for him!) A steward
is a biblical word for an estate
manager.

How do
Christians
put these
beliefs into
action?
This implies considerable
responsibility upon Christians to
look after the world, while
managing it positively. For more
able contrast this with the
historical idea of "Dominion
Theology" the idea that Christians
should be able to exploit the world
as far as possible for their own
benefit without concern for the
environment or other living
creatures as Humans are more
important.
You may cover different issues
within this, but the key bits for
their notes are the Christian
issues.
Animal Rights.
Christian attitudes
Intro with debate on the concept
to animals sheet.
of animal rights; what rights do
animals have, and why. Key ideas
are that Humans are a special
creation ("made in the image of
God") which implies a special and
important part of human nature is
like God; i.e. humans have
something spiritual about them (A
soul?) Animals do not have this,
thus while they are created by
God, and are worthy of respect,
they are not as important as
human beings. Biblical teachings:
• Humans can / should use
animals.
• Animals should be treated
with respect.
• Species should be conserved.
• God cares for all living
creatures.
You may cover different issues
within this, but the key bits for
their notes are the Christian
issues.
• Use political power to back people with concerns
for the environment.
• Pray.
• Recycle.
• Use less fuel at home, solar power etc.
• Organise car -sharing.
Practice
Exam
questions
• Get involved with direct action & peaceful protest.
• Join organisations which work for conservation.
a) What do Christians mean when they say that
people are stewards of the earth?
b) Explain why many Christians work to get rid of
hunger and disease in the world.
d) Christians should not send money to other
countries when there are so many poor people in
their own”. Do you agree?
Give reasons to
support your answer, and show that you have
thought about different points of view.
a) Describe Christian teachings that could be
used in a discussion about world hunger.
b) Explain how Christian teachings might affect
the way that Christians care for the environment.
c) "Christians should lead the way in
environmental issues" Do you agree? Give reasons
to support your answer and show that you have
thought about different points of view
a) Describe Christian teaching that might be used
in a discussion about looking after God's creation.
b) Explain how a Christian might work to improve
the environment.
c)
"We should leave future generations to look
after themselves". Do you agree? Give reasons to
support your answer and show that you have
thought about different points of view
Peace &
Conflict

Recap the key ideas on conflict
covered in year 9. These should
include;
Holy War; the idea that God fights
for and with his people, in a very
active & real way; rules of a holy
war from Joshua, (influence on the
behaviour of Christian Armies in
the 1st Crusade.
Just War. Theory of Thomas
Aquinas; key idea is that war is
wrong, but sometimes necessary.
These laws must be followed to
ensure that it is legitimate for
Christians to fight: Just cause,
Legitimate Authority, Good chance
of success, Good must outweigh
bad, Good intention, Last resort,
Proportionality, avoid harming
Deuteronomy
7:22-24. Joshua
6:17-22. Joel 3:910
"Just War sheets",
as used in year 9.
Xtianity in
today's world
p84-85 Christian
perspectives,
p74-76
Xtianity in
today's world,
p62-63 & 87.
How do
Christians
put these
beliefs into
action?
Practice
Exam
questions
Pilgrimage &
Writings.

non-combatants.
Christian
Liberation theology; the belief
that it is legitimate to struggle on
perspectives,
p81.
behalf of the oppressed poor.
Isaiah 9:6-10
Started in base communities in
Matthew 5: 9 \ 39
Latin America, given shape by
thinkers like Camillo Torres &
\
Oscar Romero. Very strongly
44
Matthew 26:52
based upon demands for social
Xtianity in
justice in the bible, in the OT
Prophets, & mission of Jesus.
today's
world p85
Pacifism; particularly in it's
Christian guise; Society of Friends
etc. Based upon , with
particular reference to Jesus'
teaching about not resisting
violence
• Pray.
• Get involved with organisations whom they might
support (Stop the War Coalition, CND, Pax Christi,
Amnesty international).
• Catholic Justice & Peace groups often active in
supporting Base communities (Liberation theology in
a peaceful context, in Latin America)
a) Describe Christian teaching about War.
b) Explain why some Christians have used nonviolent protests when working for justice.
c) “Christians are not respected when they use
violence” Do you agree? Give reasons to support
your answer and show that you have thought
about different points of view
Buddhist Pilgrimage.
Video: "In the
Key idea is that, in Buddhism,
footsteps of the
Pilgrimage is not essential, indeed Buddha" Visits
it is often discouraged. The
main Indian
journey to enlightenment is an
Pilgrimage sites
internal one; internal
for Buddhists;
transformation is what counts, not some good visual
going on external journeys. Having images, but
said that though, many Buddhists simple
like to go on Pilgrimages,
commentary.
particularly to places associated
Discovering
with the life of the Buddha:
Buddhism
Lumbini; the Buddha's birthplace.
(Foundation) p30Here they will visit the site of the
31
Buddha's birth, born miraculously Modern World
from the side of his mother.
Religions,
Sarnath (Near Varanasi). The deer
Buddhism, p 38park where the Buddha first
39
expounded the Dharma. This is a
site that is very popular, marked
by several large stupas and a
monastery, probably the most
popular site of Buddhist
pilgrimage.
Bodh Gaya. The site of Siddartha's
enlightenment. This is marked by
the Bodhi tree ( a cutting from a
cutting of the original tree),
outside the Mahabodhi temple.
This is a focus of devotion for
many Buddhists. There are also a
number of temples from different
Buddhist countries; Japanese,
Tibetan, Bhutanese etc. These are
all staffed by elite monks who
form a sort of spiritual embassy.
There is also a large (30 metre)
copy of the Buddha statue from
Kamakura in Japan.
Vajrayana Buddhism.
There is more spiritual benefit to
be gained here, because there is
the possibility of gaining spiritual
benefit from austerities and
meditations performed at certain
sites:
Mt Kailash. A mountain in the
Himalyas, difficult to travel to ( a
month's journey on foot) that is
circumnambulated. Many will
perform this performing a set
number of prostrations at each
step, thus it may take several
weeks to get round the mountain
once!
Lhasa. The capital of Tibet, and
the site of the Dalai Lama's palace,
the Potala. Although this is now
difficult due to the Chinese rule,
pilgrims still circumnambulate
this.
Dharamsala. This is the site of the
Dalai Lama's government in exile,
and therefore a visit here may
bring the possibility of seeing the
Dalai Lama himself, and gaining
spiritual benefit, or initiations
Practice
Exam
questions
from him.
Writings.
Students should know about:
Therevada texts.
The Tipitaka (Three baskets / Pali
Canon) which contains;
Vinaya Pitaka; book of monastic
discipline.
Sutta Pitaka; five sections
containing the teachings of the
Buddha. Including
• The Dhammapada (Way of the
Dhamma)
• Jataka tales (Stories about the
Buddha's previous lives)
Abhidhamma pitaka; higher
teachings, illustrations and
explanations of earlier texts (Don't
go into great detail, and leave the
rest for more able). Questions of
King Milinda. Dialogue between
the Indo-greek king Menander, and
the teaching monk Nagasena.
Mahayana Texts; The tripitaka (as
above, but spelled the Sanskrit,
rather than Pali way). Sutras,
especially The lotus sutra Prajna
paramita sutra Tantras
(particularly vajrayana) Shastras;
explanations of the various schools.
Commentaries
Buddhist texts are enormously
important as they represent a way
of teaching the Dharma. Texts are
read and taught by the sangha,
and chanted during worship. Some
traditions consider the texts
themselves to be sacred (Tibetan)
indeed, some have said that just
chanting the title of e the sutra
may produce enlightenment
(Sokka Gakkai)
a) Describe what Theravadin Buddhists do on
Uposatha days.
b) Explain how pilgrimage might benefit a Buddhist.
C) "Festivals and pilgrimages are unnecessary". Do you
agree? Give reasons to support your answer and show
that you have thought about different points of view
The
disadvantaged

How do
Christians
put these
beliefs into
action?
Practice
Exam
questions
The key idea for Christians when
Luke 4:18-19
considering this is that of Justice.
Amos 5:21-24
Social justice is an important idea, Isiaiah 58:10 1
continually demanded by God in
John 4:21 Luke
the bible.
16:19-31
The struggle for justice in the
Christian
world can be expressed in
perspectives. PI
different ways:
00-101
Trying to work to help those who
Christian
are less fortunate, through
perspectives. PI
organisations such as:
10-113
• Christian Aid (C of E).
Xtianity in
• Tearfund (Evangelical Alliance) today's world,
• Cafod (Roman catholic) Which p62-63 & 87.
encourage projects like fair trade
to ensure that people in
developing countries get the
opportunity to gain from their
production.
Some Christians might say that
Christian
this also includes struggling to
perspectives,
change the unfair systems,
p81.
through political activism,
including Liberation theology (See
peace & conflict section above)
Work in a developing country as an aid worker, full
time, or VSO.
Support development work through fair trade
shopping, or fundraising.
Live a simple lifestyle, .pray for those who are
disadvantaged.
Give their money (some Christians "Tithe" one
tenth of their income to the poor & the church.
Put pressure on organisations & businesses which
are still mistreating the poor.
a) Describe Christian teachings about caring for the
poor.
b) Explain how one Christian aid agency puts beliefs
into practice.
c) "Caring for the poor should be the most important
thing in the life of a Christian" Do you agree? Give
reasons to support your answer and show that you
have thought about different points of view