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AQA GCSE Religious Studies – Pacifism and Peacemaking (Christianity & Islam)

This inspiring and informative lesson is designed to meet the requirements of the AQA GCSE Religious Studies specification (Theme D: Religion, Peace and Conflict). It introduces students to the concept of pacifism, explores Christian and Islamic attitudes to non-violence and peace, and examines the work of key pacifist organisations: the Anglican Pacifist Fellowship and the Muslim Peace Fellowship. The lesson encourages critical reflection on moral decision-making, belief in action, and how religious principles are lived out in efforts to build peace and resist violence.

Learning Outcomes:

• Define pacifism and explain why some individuals and groups choose to be pacifist
• Explain Christian and Islamic beliefs about pacifism, using religious teachings and examples
• Describe the work of two major pacifist organisations – The Anglican Pacifist Fellowship and The Muslim Peace Fellowship

What’s Included:

• Visually engaging PowerPoint presentation with key information, definitions, and discussion prompts
• A starter activity recaps prior knowledge from the scheme of work (SOW), helping students to connect new learning to what they already know.
• Throughout the lesson, **questioning activities **are used to promote discussion, check understanding, and encourage participation.
• Printable worksheet with comprehension, analysis, and reflection tasks
• Side by-side comparison of Christian and Islamic views on pacifism
• Case studies on the Anglican Pacifist Fellowship and the Muslim Peace Fellowship
• Students will complete an exam/ deliberate practice question to develop their assessment skills and apply their knowledge with scaffolding
• The lesson concludes with a final activity that allows students to consolidate their understanding and reflect on what they have learned.

Why Choose This Resource?
Fully aligned with AQA GCSE Religious Studies (Theme D: Religion, Peace and Conflict)
Promotes SMSC development and encourages empathy, moral reflection, and understanding of peaceful activism
Supports strong exam preparation with structured writing practice and modelled responses
Offers cross-curricular links with Citizenship, History, and Ethics

Ideal for classroom delivery, revision, or independent study. Adaptable for a wide range of learners and learning environments.