Guidance

Religious studies: grade descriptors for GCSEs graded 9 to 1

Updated 6 September 2017

Applies to England

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1. Grade 8

1.1 To achieve grade 8 candidates will be able to:

  • demonstrate relevant and comprehensive knowledge and understanding of a wide range of beliefs and practices with well-integrated reference to sources of wisdom and authority
  • demonstrate detailed understanding of common and divergent views and practices within and between religions or beliefs
  • construct a sustained and convincing argument on matters of religion or belief based on critical analysis and evaluation of different perspectives, and using accurate specialist terminology

2. Grade 5

2.1 To achieve grade 5 candidates will be able to:

  • demonstrate mostly accurate and appropriate knowledge and understanding of a range of beliefs and practices with reference to sources of wisdom and authority
  • demonstrate some understanding of common and divergent views and practices within and between religions or beliefs
  • construct a reasoned point of view on matters of religion or belief based on some analysis and evaluation of different perspectives, and using mostly accurate specialist terminology

3. Grade 2

3.1 To achieve grade 2 candidates will be able to:

  • demonstrate some relevant knowledge and understanding of some beliefs and practices with limited reference to sources of wisdom and authority
  • demonstrate some understanding of different views and practices between religions or beliefs
  • express an opinion on matters of religion or belief using everyday language, recognising others might have different views
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