S2 Coursework

The S2 syllabus falls into three sections

Faith in Action

The first unit is a brief study of the experience of Ernest Gordon during his time in a Japanese Prisoner of War Camp.  This unit gives the opportunity to consider questions of morality with regard to the treatment of prisoners of war, and to see how differing communities may hold differing opinions regarding individual or communal responsibilities.  In the extreme conditions experienced during the building of the Kwai Railway, Ernest develops a deep faith.  However, this was a practical faith which had to face up to the full implications of the teaching of Christianity, in particular in matters of forgiveness.  See also the note under ‘films’ on the R.M.E. title page.

Judaism

The second unit is a systematic study of Judaism.  We begin with the foundations of ancient Judaism through the journey of Abraham from Ur to Canaan.  The story continues with the experience of the ancient Hebrews in Egypt, and the rescue from slavery under the leadership of Moses.  The latter is examined through the history of Pesach [Passover] and the Seder Meal.  Pupils are given the opportunity to taste the items used during the Seder Meal. 

Ceremonial dress as worn by the boys following their Bar Mitzvah is examined.  Aspects of the Hebrew Bible are examined, together with the recitation of the ‘Shema Israel’.  The worship and layout of a synagogue is investigated together with the dietary laws followed by strict Jews.  The historic persecution of the Jews, culminating in the holocaust is examined.  The unit concludes with a short video concerning a visit to Israel. 

During the unit, ideally during January, each pupil undertakes a personal investigation into either Hanukkah, Sukkot, or Purim, and presents their findings in a written report.  See also the section ‘S2 Judasism Festival Investigation’ on the R.M.E. title page

Jesus of Nazareth

The third unit logically follows on from the study of Judaism, and is a study of some aspects of the life and teaching of Jesus of Nazareth.  The unit begins by setting Jesus within his Jewish roots.  The aims and methods of presentation of the main Gospel narrators is examined.  The temptation and baptism of Jesus , and the Call of the Disciples, are discussed before moving on to examine stories Jesus told, such as ‘The Good Samaritan’, ‘The Forgiving Father’ [sometimes called the Parable of the Prodigal Son].  One of the healing miracles is examined.  The unit concludes with an extended study of the last week leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus, followed by the story of the resurrection.