Religious Studies

Learning journey & sequencing rationale

As Religious Studies Teachers at Harrow High, we want our learners to be critical thinkers who are able to formulate their views, taking into consideration different views and beliefs. We want learners to develop an enquiring mind where they will analyse different interpretations of beliefs. Through the lessons, teachers want to encourage and develop the key attitudes including; curiosity and wonder, commitment, fairness , respect, self –understanding, open-mindedness, critical-mindedness and enquiry. We want our learners to be effective communicators. We believe developing the skills mentioned will benefit learners during their journey at school but also within their future lives.

Programme of Study

Hinduism has been chosen as the first religion to be covered in Year 8 at Harrow High School for several reasons. Firstly, with 25% of Harrow's population describing themselves as Hindu, it is important to provide students with an understanding of this significant religious group in their community. Secondly, Hinduism is one of the oldest and most diverse religions globally and has influenced art, literature, and philosophy. Teaching Hinduism can provide students with a deeper appreciation for India and South Asia's cultural and religious heritage. Thirdly, Hinduism shares similarities with Buddhism (last topic in the year 7 carousel), promoting a deeper understanding of key religious concepts. Finally, teaching Hinduism can promote cultural understanding and interfaith dialogue, essential in a diverse community.

Term	Half-term 1	Half-term 2
Autumn	Hinduism	Hinduism
Spring	Buddhism	Buddhism
Summer	Festivals	Religious leaders

Unit Overview: Autumn Term

Topic: Hinduism
Skills	Beliefs, teachings and sources of wisdom Practices and ways of life - celebrations and commemorations, prayer, worship and reflection Forms of expressing meaning, language and symbolism . Identity, diversity and belonging - places, communities, rites of passage Meaning, purpose and truth - reflection and appreciation, ultimate questions Human responsibility and values Understanding Hindu texts Interpreting Hindu text Judgements based on Hindu beliefs and practices
Knowledge	What do Hindus believe about God? What is karma and reincarnation? What is the Ramayana? What do Hindus worship? Where do Hindus go for worship?
Rationale	Hinduism has been chosen as the first religion to be covered in Year 8 at Harrow High School for several reasons. Firstly, 26% of Harrow's population describe themselves as Hindu, which makes them the second-largest religious group after Christianity in the local area. Therefore, it is important to provide students with an understanding of this significant religious group in their community. Secondly, Hinduism is one of the oldest and most diverse religions globally and has influenced art, literature, and philosophy. Teaching Hinduism can provide students with a deeper appreciation for India and South Asia's cultural and religious heritage. Thirdly, Hinduism shares similarities with Buddhism, promoting a deeper understanding of key religious concepts. Finally, teaching Hinduism can promote cultural understanding and interfaith dialogue, essential in a diverse community.

Unit Overview: Spring Term

Topic: Buddhism
Skills	Beliefs, teachings and sources of wisdom Practices and ways of life - celebrations and commemorations, prayer, worship and reflection Forms of expressing meaning, language and symbolism. Identity, diversity and belonging - places, communities, rites of passage Meaning, purpose and truth - reflection and appreciation, ultimate questions Human responsibility and values Understanding Buddhist texts Interpreting Buddhist text Judgements based on Buddhist beliefs and practices
Knowledge	Who was the Buddah? What did the Buddah teach? Reincarnation Three universal truths Buddhism practices Legend of Buddha
Rationale	At Harrow High School, we believe learning about Buddhism is essential for broadening students' understanding of the world. Buddhism, as a major religion, offers valuable lessons on compassion, mindfulness, and ethical living. By studying Buddhism, students gain insights into different cultures and philosophies, enhancing their personal development and moral reasoning skills. Moreover, exploring Buddhism promotes respect for diverse beliefs and fosters a culture of inclusivity and cooperation among students. Understanding the similarities and differences between Buddhism and other religions encourages tolerance and appreciation for cultural diversity. Additionally, Buddhist teachings on environmental ethics and mindfulness provide practical tools for promoting well-being and sustainability. Incorporating Buddhism into our curriculum prepares students to become compassionate and globally-minded individuals. Through the study of Buddhism, students develop critical thinking skills and empathy, enabling them to navigate the complexities of our interconnected world with integrity and understanding.

Unit Overview: Summer Term

Topic: Festivals & Religious Leaders
Skills	Beliefs, teachings and sources of wisdom Practices and ways of life - celebrations and commemorations, prayer, worship and reflection Forms of expressing meaning, language and symbolism . Identity, diversity and belonging - places, communities, rites of passage Meaning, purpose and truth - reflection and appreciation, ultimate questions Human responsibility and values Understanding religious practices and how they relate to festivals Interpreting festival conventions & traditions Judgements based on cultural practices and how they fit within modern society.
Knowledge	Festivals in Hinduism Festivals in Christianity Festivals in Islam Religious Leaders - Abraham Religious Leaders - Moses Religious Leaders - Jesus Religious Leaders - Muhammad
Rationale	At Harrow High School, our summer term curriculum focuses on festivals in major religions and the study of influential religious leaders. This structured approach aims to deepen students' understanding of cultural traditions and the historical figures who have shaped religious beliefs and practices. Studying festivals in Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam provides students with insights into the cultural and religious significance of these celebrations. By learning about Diwali, Christmas, Eid al-Fitr, and other festivals, students gain an appreciation for the diversity of religious observances and the values they represent. Understanding these festivals fosters respect for different cultures and promotes interfaith dialogue and understanding among students. Moreover, since students also learn about festivals in their Religious Studies GCSE course, understanding the historical background of these festivals enhances their preparation and comprehension of the subject. In the second half of the term, students explore the lives and teachings of key religious leaders such as Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad. These figures hold profound significance in their respective faiths and have played pivotal roles in shaping religious beliefs and communities. By studying their lives and legacies, students gain a deeper understanding of the historical context and the enduring impact of their teachings on religious traditions and societies worldwide. This knowledge not only enriches students' understanding of religious diversity but also cultivates critical thinking skills and empathy as they engage with different perspectives and world-views. Additionally, since students learn about the beliefs and practices of Jesus and Muhammad in their Religious Studies GCSE course, understanding the historical background of these individuals is essential for comprehending their teachings and their impact on their respective religions.

Year 8 Religious Studies KO: Hinduism, Buddhism, Festivals & Religious Leaders