Catalyst • Junior Secondary Curriculum • Handbook 2021
Core
Subject
Religion, Philosophy and Ethics
The teaching of Religion, Philosophy and
Ethics within Guildford Grammar School supports
the purpose and religious foundation of the
School through an academically rigorous syllabus
concerned with the production of critical thinkers,
the promotion of intellectual curiosity, and the
analysis and appreciation of Christian and other
religious values and practice. The subject is taught
in an academically rigorous fashion and with the
inclusiveness expected of liberal but orthodox
Anglican schooling. Compassion, empathy and
service beyond self are integral elements of such
education.
From Year 7 to Year 10 all students study a
foundational program of Religion, Philosophy &
Ethics which concentrates on four interrelated areas
of study, ensuring the students have a broad and firm
understanding of religious, philosophical and ethical
issues and as such are also well prepared for the
Western Australian Certificate of Education subjects,
Philosophy & Ethics, and Religion, Spirituality & Life.
The four streams are Christian Theology; Philosophy
of Religion; Ethics, and World Religions.
Year 7
In Term 1 students are introduced to the significance
and development of symbols and stories while in
Term 2 they learn about Judaism, the religion into
which Jesus was born and out of which Christianity
grew. Its origins, history, practices and teachings
are discussed. In Term 3, the life and significance of
Jesus Christ is investigated while in Term 4 in Ethical
Frameworks, students consider the ethical dimensions
of what it means to be a good leader and what is
understood by servant leadership.
Year 8
In Term 1, in a Christian Theology unit, students
investigate Christian rituals and festivals, while in
Term 2 they learn about the significance of myths,
stories and parables. In Terms 3 and 4 a comparative
approach to understanding aspects of three of the
largest religions in the world is undertaken – Islam,
Hinduism, and Buddhism. Throughout the year
students undertake a Service Learning unit on the
environment and sustainability in which, as well as
addressing the many issues associated with the topic,
they conduct the School’s paper recycling program.
Year 9
In Term 1 an Ethics unit provides an opportunity to
investigate questions relating to poverty and wealth
throughout the world while in Term 2 students learn
about issues of prejudice, including sexism, racism,
ageism, and religious intolerance in a Philosophy of
Religion unit. During Term 3 in another Ethics unit
the students analyse the concepts of war and peace
including the “just war theory.” In Term 4 students
discover and discuss the nature of the relationship
of science and religion, including exploration of
issues associated with the origins of the Universe and
evolution. Throughout the year students undertake
a Service Learning unit on charitable giving in which
they are required to develop a portfolio advocating
assistance for a preferred charity.
For additional details about these Core Religion,
Philosophy & Ethics courses, please contact:
The Rev’d Canon Dr Philip Raymont
Head of Religion, Philosophy & Ethics
(08) 9377 9245
[email protected]
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