Studies of Religion II (2 unit)

Preliminary Course [Board Developed] 2 units HSC Course [Board Developed] 2 units Exclusions: Studies of Religion I

The Studies of Religion II course allows students to examine the religious traditions in term of their historical development, beliefs, rituals and expression in the lives of adherents. Furthermore, students will examine the place of religion in local and global contexts, its contributions in the pursuit of peace and Australian Indigenous Spirituality. This subject is valuable as it cultivates understanding of others, enabling students to understand how individuals from various religious backgrounds engage with life’s enduring questions and make meaning in their lives. It also facilitates an examination of the impact and effects of religious worldviews on individuals and communities, fostering nuanced interfaith and intercultural understanding in an increasingly diverse, interconnected and pluralistic world.

Studies of Religion II contains all of the same content as Studies of Religion I with a few important additions. In Studies of Religion I students examine Christianity, Islam and Religion in Australia. Additional areas of study that 2-unit students cover include: a Buddhism Depth Study, a Depth Study on Religious approaches to peace, an examination of the global distribution of religion, and non-religious alternatives to religious worldviews. Studies of Religion II is not accelerated and runs as all other standard 2-unit courses.

In the Preliminary Course, students focus on understanding the nature and characteristics of religion. Additionally, they delve into the fundamental history and ideas underpinning Aboriginal Spirituality, Christianity, Islam and Buddhism. In the HSC Course, students add depth to their exploration by examining the role of religion in Australian society and around the world. They also engage in more analytical Depth Studies of Christianity, Islam, Buddhism investigating significant individuals, practices, and ethical considerations within the religious traditions. These studies culminate in a conceptual study of approaches to peace across different traditions. This approach allows students to develop a nuanced understanding of these religious traditions and the way that they are lived out in different times and places.

Overall, the Studies of Religion II subject equips students with a multifaceted understanding of religious traditions, their histories, and their adherents. The additional units in the 2-unit course add an increased breadth and depth to the course. It increases breadth through the study of another religious tradition as well as alternatives to religious worldviews while it increases depth by encouraging an analytical examination of the relationship between religion and peace. By fostering empathy, interfaith understanding, and analytical thinking, this subject prepares students to engage with diverse perspectives and navigate the complexities of our pluralistic world.

Main Topics Covered