AMELIBRARY

Cambridge O Level Biblical Studies (2035)

Michael P M Mhlanga By Michael P M Mhlanga

This Cambridge O Level course is an internationally recognised qualification designed for students aged 14 to 16. You’ll develop a deep understanding of the Bible within a Christian context, exploring the portrayal of God and Jesus and the ongoing relevance of the Christian message today. The course builds key transferable skills, such as understanding different values and perspectives, and is an excellent foundation for further study, including Cambridge International AS & A Level Biblical Studies. No previous study of Biblical Studies is required.

Course Aims

The main goals of this course are to help you:

  • Develop an understanding and appreciation of the Bible, studied in a Christian context.
  • Gain a broad understanding of the Christian message and its relevance for Christians today.
  • Deepen your knowledge of how God is portrayed in the Bible and how Jesus is portrayed in the synoptic gospels.
  • Adopt an enquiring and critical approach to biblical texts and the different ways they can be interpreted.

Curriculum Content

The syllabus is divided into two compulsory papers, and you must study all the content for both. All Bible passages for the exams are taken from the New Revised Standard Version, Anglicised (NRSVA).

Paper 1: The Portrayal of God in the Bible

This paper explores key portrayals of God through the study of specific texts and events. The seven topics are:

  1. God as creator
  2. God as covenant-giver
  3. God as liberator
  4. God as king
  5. God as prophecy-giver
  6. Jesus as saviour
  7. The Holy Spirit as guide

Paper 2: The Portrayal of Jesus in the Synoptic Gospels

This paper examines how Jesus is portrayed in the gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The seven topics are:

  1. The political and religious background to the life and times of Jesus
  2. Key events in the life of Jesus until the transfiguration
  3. Key events in the last week of Jesus’ life, including his resurrection and ascension
  4. Conflict and opposition to Jesus
  5. The miracles of Jesus
  6. The parables of Jesus
  7. The teachings and sayings of Jesus

Assessment Structure ✍️

All students take two compulsory written papers, each with equal weighting. You’ll be eligible for grades A* to E.

  • Paper 1: The Portrayal of God in the Bible

    • Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
    • Weighting: 50%
    • Total Marks: 60
    • Format: A structured question paper. You’ll answer one question from a choice of two in Section A, and two questions from a choice of three in Section B. Questions are split into parts (a) and (b) which test knowledge, and part (c) which tests evaluation.

  • Paper 2: The Portrayal of Jesus in the Synoptic Gospels

    • Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
    • Weighting: 50%
    • Total Marks: 60
    • Format: The format is identical to Paper 1, with questions focusing on the content from the synoptic gospels.