VCE Units 1 & 2 - Religion and Society
VCE Units 1 & 2 - Religion and Society
Overview
Religion and Society is the study of religions which are defined as forms of beliefs and practices which allow human beings to express their sense of ultimate reality. The study encourages students to discover the role of religion in society and how religion provides meaning to the existential questions that are common to most people. Religions can be understood in a general way as meaning systems that have nine interrelated aspects: Beliefs, Sacred stories, Spaces, Places, times and artefacts, Texts, Rituals, Symbols, Social Structures - Ethics – Spiritual experiences.
Unit 1: The role of religion in society
In Unit 1, students explore the spiritual origins of religion, identifying the nature and purpose of religion over time. They investigate the contribution of religion to the development of human society and then focus on the role of religious traditions in shaping personal and group identity. Students examine how religious traditions are affected and changed by individuals and groups.
Areas of Study
- The Nature and Purpose of Religion
- Religion through the Ages
- Religion in Australia
Unit 2: Religion and ethics
In Unit 2, students’ study in detail various methods of ethical decision-making in at least two religious traditions and their related philosophical traditions. They explore ethical issues in societies where multiple worldviews coexist, in the light of these investigations.
Areas of Study
- Ethical Decision Making and Moral Judgement
- Religion and Ethics
- Ethical Issues in Society
Forms of Assessment
All outcomes in Units 1 & 2 will include a combination of short answer, extended response and essay questions which are completed under test conditions.
Prerequisites and Corequisites
Satisfactory completion of any Year 10 Religious Education subject.
Please note that Year 9 students may apply to accelerate into this subject in Year 10 after an application process, including an interview.