The Cambridge International AS and A Level Biblical Studies (9484)

The Cambridge International AS and A Level Biblical Studies (9484) syllabus is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the Bible, its historical context, and its influence on various aspects of society and culture. The course focuses on the study of the Old Testament (Hebrew Bible) and the New Testament, examining key texts, themes, and theological concepts.

Key Components of the Syllabus:

1. Old Testament (Hebrew Bible)

  • Genesis: Study of the creation narratives, the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob), and the early history of the Israelites.
  • Exodus: Examination of the story of Moses, the liberation of the Israelites from Egypt, the giving of the Law, and the covenant.
  • Prophets: Analysis of the major and minor prophets, their messages, and their impact on Israelite society.
  • Psalms: Exploration of the Psalms as a form of Hebrew poetry, their themes, and their role in worship and personal reflection.

2. New Testament

  • Gospels: Study of the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), their portrayal of the life, teachings, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and their theological implications.
  • Acts of the Apostles: Examination of the early Church's history, including the spread of Christianity and the role of key figures like Peter and Paul.
  • Pauline Epistles: Analysis of the letters written by Paul, their theological themes, and their influence on early Christian doctrine and practice.
  • General Epistles and Revelation: Study of the remaining New Testament letters and the book of Revelation, focusing on their themes, authorship, and impact on Christian thought.

Learning Objectives:

  • Historical and Cultural Context: Understanding the historical, cultural, and religious contexts in which the biblical texts were written.
  • Textual Analysis: Analyzing the structure, themes, and literary forms of the biblical texts.
  • Theological Understanding: Exploring the theological concepts and doctrines presented in the Bible and their implications for Christian faith and practice.
  • Critical Engagement: Engaging critically with the texts and interpretations, considering different scholarly perspectives and debates.

Assessment Structure:

The assessment for the AS and A Level Biblical Studies involves a combination of written examinations that test students' understanding of the texts, themes, and theological issues.

AS Level:

  1. Paper 1: The Old Testament (1 hour 45 minutes)

    • Section A: Questions on specific texts and themes from Genesis, Exodus, or the Prophets.
    • Section B: A critical analysis of a passage or theme from the Psalms.

  2. Paper 2: The New Testament (1 hour 45 minutes)

    • Section A: Questions on the Gospels, Acts, Pauline Epistles, or General Epistles and Revelation.
    • Section B: A critical analysis of a passage or theme from one of the New Testament writings.

A Level:

  1. Paper 3: The Old Testament (2 hours 30 minutes)

    • Comprehensive examination of the Old Testament texts, themes, and theological concepts. This paper may include extended essay questions and in-depth textual analysis.

  2. Paper 4: The New Testament (2 hours 30 minutes)

    • Detailed examination of the New Testament texts, including critical essays and thematic analysis.

Recommended Resources:

  • Biblical Texts: Use different translations and commentaries of the Bible to gain a broader understanding of the texts.
  • Textbooks: Cambridge-endorsed textbooks that cover both the Old Testament and New Testament in detail.
  • Commentaries and Scholarly Works: Engage with scholarly commentaries and academic works for deeper insights into specific texts and themes.
  • Online Resources: Utilize online resources, including academic articles, lectures, and discussion forums to supplement your study.

Tips for Success:

  • Read Widely: Engage with various translations and commentaries of the biblical texts to gain multiple perspectives and deepen your understanding.
  • Understand Context: Pay attention to the historical, cultural, and religious context of the biblical texts to better understand their meaning and significance.
  • Practice Critical Analysis: Develop your ability to analyze texts critically, considering different interpretations and scholarly debates.
  • Organize Notes: Keep well-organized notes on key themes, characters, and theological concepts to aid in revision and essay writing.
  • Use Past Papers: Practice with past exam papers to familiarize yourself with the question formats and develop your exam techniques.

This syllabus provides a thorough foundation for students interested in biblical studies, theology, religious studies, or related fields. It is also beneficial for those who want to explore the influence of the Bible on literature, art, and culture.

If you have any specific questions or need further assistance with any aspect of the syllabus, feel free to ask!

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