Mark Scheme

Section A — Christianity

Question 1

(a) Correct answer: C Christmas

(1 mark)

(b) Award one mark for each correct point:

Responses may include: • God exists as three persons / the Father, Son and Holy Spirit • The three persons are distinct but share the same divine nature / essence • God the Father is the creator • God the Son became incarnate as Jesus Christ • God the Holy Spirit is God's presence in the world today • The three persons are co-equal / co-eternal • The Trinity is a mystery that cannot be fully understood by humans • All three persons have always existed

Accept other valid responses.

(2 marks)

(c) Award one mark for each way identified and one further mark for development (up to two ways).

Responses may include: • Christians have hope of eternal life / their own resurrection (1 mark) because Jesus's resurrection shows that death is not the end and that they too can be raised to new life with God (1 mark) • Christians believe they can overcome sin (1 mark) because the resurrection shows that Jesus defeated death and sin, so they can live free from sin's power (1 mark) • Christians are motivated to spread the Gospel (1 mark) because the resurrection proves that Jesus is the Son of God and his message is true, so they want others to know this good news (1 mark) • Christians worship on Sunday (1 mark) because this is the day Jesus rose from the dead, so they celebrate his victory over death (1 mark)

Accept other valid responses.

(4 marks)

(d) Award one mark for each reason identified, one further mark for development, and one further mark for reference to sacred writings or another source of Christian belief and teaching (up to two reasons).

Responses may include: • The crucifixion brings salvation / forgiveness of sins (1 mark) because Jesus died as a sacrifice to pay the price for human sin (1 mark). As Peter wrote, "He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross" (1 Peter 2:24) (1 mark) • The crucifixion shows God's love for humanity (1 mark) because God was willing to send his Son to suffer and die for humans (1 mark). "God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son" (John 3:16) (1 mark) • The crucifixion demonstrates atonement / restores the relationship between God and humanity (1 mark) because Jesus's death reconciles sinful humans with the holy God (1 mark). Christians believe this fulfils Old Testament prophecies such as Isaiah 53 about the suffering servant (1 mark) • The crucifixion shows Jesus's obedience to God the Father (1 mark) because Jesus willingly accepted his fate even though he could have avoided it (1 mark). In Gethsemane, Jesus prayed "not my will, but yours be done" (Luke 22:42) (1 mark)

Accept other valid responses. Credit alternative sources of wisdom and authority such as the Apostles' Creed, Nicene Creed, Catechism, or Christian teaching.

(5 marks)

(e) Levels of Response:

SPaG (Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar):

Indicative content:

Arguments in support: • Infant baptism welcomes the child into the Christian community from the very beginning of life • Parents and godparents make vows on behalf of the child, showing the community's commitment to raise the child as a Christian • Infant baptism removes original sin, giving the child a fresh spiritual start • It reflects God's grace, which is freely given and not dependent on human understanding or decision • Many denominations (Catholic, Anglican, Orthodox) practise infant baptism and see it as essential • Biblical references can be interpreted to support household baptisms including children

Arguments against: • Believers' baptism requires personal faith and understanding, making the commitment more meaningful • Jesus was baptized as an adult, providing a model for believers' baptism • Believers' baptism is a public declaration of faith made by the individual themselves • It demonstrates personal choice and responsibility in following Jesus • Infant baptism may lack genuine commitment as the child had no say in the decision • Baptist and Pentecostal churches emphasise believers' baptism as the authentic form

Students may refer to non-religious arguments: • Personal autonomy and the right to choose one's own beliefs • The importance of informed consent in modern society

Accept other valid responses.

(12 marks + 3 marks SPaG = 15 marks)

Question 2

(a) Correct answer: C Blessed are the wealthy

(1 mark)

(b) Award one mark for each reason given:

Responses may include: • To learn more about God / Jesus / Christian teachings • To feel closer to God / develop their relationship with God • To receive guidance for daily life / moral decisions • To be inspired / encouraged in their faith • To fulfil their duty as Christians to read Scripture • To meditate on God's word • To prepare for the day ahead / reflect on the day

Accept other valid responses.

(2 marks)

(c) Award one mark for each way identified and one further mark for development (up to two ways).

Responses may include: • Christians help those in need / volunteer at food banks or homeless shelters (1 mark) because agape love means caring for others selflessly, putting their needs before one's own comfort (1 mark) • Christians donate money to charity (1 mark) because agape love involves practical action to help those who are suffering, following Jesus's example of caring for the poor (1 mark) • Christians forgive those who have wronged them (1 mark) because agape love is unconditional and doesn't depend on the other person deserving it, just as God forgives humans (1 mark) • Christians work for justice and peace (1 mark) because agape love seeks the wellbeing of all people, especially the oppressed and marginalized (1 mark) • Christians care for family members / elderly relatives (1 mark) because agape love means sacrificial service to others, even when it is difficult or costly (1 mark)

Accept other valid responses.

(4 marks)

(d) Award one mark for each reason identified, one further mark for development, and one further mark for reference to sacred writings or another source of Christian belief and teaching (up to two reasons).

Responses may include: • Pilgrimage strengthens faith (1 mark) by providing time away from daily distractions to focus on God and deepen spiritual understanding (1 mark). Christians may visit places like Lourdes where many believe miracles occur, reinforcing their faith (1 mark) • Pilgrimage connects Christians to their religious history (1 mark) by visiting sites where Jesus lived and died, making biblical events more real and personal (1 mark). Christians may visit Jerusalem to walk where Jesus walked, as described in the Gospels (1 mark) • Pilgrimage provides opportunity for repentance and healing (1 mark) as pilgrims often seek physical or spiritual healing and renewal (1 mark). Many Christians visit Lourdes because of its association with healing, following Jesus's ministry of healing the sick (1 mark) • Pilgrimage creates community among believers (1 mark) as Christians from different backgrounds journey together in faith (1 mark). This reflects the biblical concept of the Church as the Body of Christ, united in worship (1 mark)

Accept other valid responses. Credit alternative sources such as Church teaching, lives of saints, or Christian tradition.

(5 marks)

(e) Levels of Response: (Same grid as Question 1(e))

Indicative content:

Arguments in support: • Prayer is direct communication with God, making it the most intimate form of worship • Jesus himself prayed regularly and taught his disciples to pray (Lord's Prayer) • Prayer can be done anywhere, at any time, making it accessible to all Christians • Prayer is personal and can address individual needs, concerns and thanksgivings • Many Christians pray daily (morning prayers, grace before meals, bedtime prayers) • Prayer changes the person praying by bringing them closer to God • Without prayer, other forms of worship would lack spiritual depth

Arguments against: • Corporate worship / church services bring the community together to worship collectively • The Eucharist / Holy Communion is central to many Christian denominations as it re-enacts the Last Supper • Reading the Bible is essential for knowing God's word and understanding his will • Singing hymns and worship songs can express praise in ways that words alone cannot • Acts of service and charity are forms of worship ("whatever you did for the least of these, you did for me" - Matthew 25) • Different forms of worship work together; no single form is most important • Sacraments like baptism and communion are commanded by Jesus and therefore essential

Students may refer to non-religious arguments: • Different people find meaning in different practices • Variety in worship helps maintain engagement and commitment

Accept other valid responses.

(12 marks + 3 marks SPaG = 15 marks)

Section B — Islam

Question 3

(a) Correct answer: B The oneness of Allah

(1 mark)

(b) Award one mark for each correct belief:

Responses may include: • All people will be resurrected and judged by Allah • People will be judged according to their actions in life / how they lived • Good actions will be rewarded with paradise / Jannah • Evil actions will be punished with hell / Jahannam • Angels will be present at the judgement • Each person's deeds are recorded in a book • The Day of Judgement is known only to Allah • Those whose good deeds outweigh bad deeds will enter paradise

Accept other valid responses.

(2 marks)

(c) Award one mark for each way identified and one further mark for development (up to two ways).

Responses may include: • Muslims trust in Allah's plan (1 mark) because they believe everything that happens is already known and willed by Allah, so they accept difficult situations with patience (1 mark) • Muslims still make effort and choices (1 mark) because although the outcome is known to Allah, humans have free will and are responsible for their actions, so they must try their best (1 mark) • Muslims feel comfort during hardship (1 mark) because they believe that whatever happens is part of Allah's divine plan, which gives them peace and resilience (1 mark) • Muslims pray for guidance (1 mark) because while they believe in predestination, they also believe they should seek Allah's help in making good choices (1 mark)

Accept other valid responses.

(4 marks)

(d) Award one mark for each reason identified, one further mark for development, and one further mark for reference to sacred writings or another source of Islamic belief and teaching (up to two reasons).

Responses may include: • The Qur'an is the direct word of Allah (1 mark) revealed to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) through Angel Jibril, so it contains Allah's perfect guidance (1 mark). Muslims believe "This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah" (Surah 2:2) (1 mark) • The Qur'an guides Muslims in how to live (1 mark) as it contains instructions on worship, morality, law and all aspects of life (1 mark). It is described as a light and guidance: "We have sent down to you the Book as clarification for all things" (Surah 16:89) (1 mark) • The Qur'an is recited in prayer / Salah (1 mark) with Surah Al-Fatihah recited in every rak'ah, making it central to worship (1 mark). The Qur'an itself says "Recite what is sent of the Book" (Surah 29:45) (1 mark) • The Qur'an is unchanged since revelation (1 mark) and remains in its original Arabic, so Muslims can be certain they are reading Allah's authentic words (1 mark). "Indeed, it is We who sent down the Qur'an and indeed, We will be its guardian" (Surah 15:9) (1 mark)

Accept other valid responses. Credit alternative sources such as Hadith, Islamic scholarship, or Islamic tradition.

(5 marks)

(e) Levels of Response: (Same grid as Question 1(e))

Indicative content:

Arguments in support: • Zakah helps the poor and needy, fulfilling a key Islamic value of caring for others • Zakah purifies wealth and the soul from greed and selfishness • Zakah creates social justice and reduces inequality in the Muslim community • Zakah is obligatory and one of the Five Pillars, making it a fundamental duty • The Qur'an frequently mentions prayer and zakah together, showing their equal importance • Zakah demonstrates obedience to Allah's command and submission to his will • Without zakah, society would suffer and Muslims would fail in their duty to others

Arguments against: • Shahadah is most important as it is the declaration of faith that makes someone a Muslim • Salah is most important as it is performed five times daily, constantly reconnecting the believer with Allah • Sawm during Ramadan develops self-discipline and empathy for the poor • Hajj is the ultimate act of submission, bringing Muslims together from around the world • All Five Pillars are equally important as they work together to create a complete Islamic life • Faith in the heart (iman) is more important than outward actions • Each Pillar addresses different aspects of life; no single one is most important

Students may refer to non-religious arguments: • Charitable giving benefits society regardless of religious motivation • Different practices suit different people's spiritual needs

Accept other valid responses.

(12 marks + 3 marks SPaG = 15 marks)

Question 4

(a) Correct answer: C Hajj

(1 mark)

(b) Award one mark for each way given:

Responses may include: • Attend prayers at the mosque • Sacrifice an animal / share meat with family and the poor • Give to charity / help those in need • Wear new clothes / best clothes • Visit family and friends • Exchange gifts • Celebrate with special meals / festive food • Remember the story of Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son

Accept other valid responses.

(2 marks)

(c) Award one mark for each way identified and one further mark for development (up to two ways).

Responses may include: • The mosque is a place for communal prayer / Jummah prayer (1 mark) which brings the Muslim community together every Friday to worship Allah collectively and hear a sermon (1 mark) • The mosque is a centre for education (1 mark) where children and adults learn to read the Qur'an in Arabic and study Islamic teachings (1 mark) • The mosque provides social services (1 mark) such as supporting the poor, organizing zakah distribution, or helping new Muslims, which strengthens community bonds (1 mark) • The mosque is a place for community gatherings / celebrations (1 mark) such as Id prayers, weddings, or funeral prayers, marking important life events together (1 mark) • The mosque provides a space for Muslims to meet and support each other (1 mark) creating a sense of belonging and ummah (worldwide Muslim community) (1 mark)

Accept other valid responses.

(4 marks)

(d) Award one mark for each reason identified, one further mark for development, and one further mark for reference to sacred writings or another source of Islamic belief and teaching (up to two reasons).

Responses may include: • Salah is a direct connection between the Muslim and Allah (1 mark) providing opportunity to worship, praise and submit to Allah five times each day (1 mark). The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said "Prayer is the pillar of religion" (Hadith) (1 mark) • Salah is one of the Five Pillars of Islam (1 mark) making it a fundamental obligation that every Muslim must fulfill (1 mark). The Qur'an commands: "Establish prayer" (Surah 2:43) (1 mark) • Salah provides discipline and structure to daily life (1 mark) as Muslims stop their activities to pray at set times, reminding them of Allah throughout the day (1 mark). This fulfils the Qur'anic verse: "Remember your Lord within yourself morning and evening" (Surah 7:205) (1 mark) • Salah purifies the soul from sins (1 mark) as regular prayer helps Muslims avoid wrongdoing and seek forgiveness (1 mark). The Prophet (pbuh) taught that the five daily prayers erase sins, like washing five times a day removes dirt (Hadith) (1 mark)

Accept other valid responses. Credit alternative sources such as Hadith, Islamic scholarship, or the example of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

(5 marks)

(e) Levels of Response: (Same grid as Question 1(e))

Indicative content:

Arguments in support: • Greater jihad (internal struggle) is the most important form, as the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) called it the "greater" struggle • Overcoming temptation, greed, anger and other sins is essential for every Muslim's spiritual development • Without inner purification, external actions lack sincerity and are meaningless • The Qur'an emphasises personal responsibility and self-improvement • Modern Muslims primarily face spiritual battles against materialism and moral challenges • Inner jihad is a constant, daily struggle whereas other forms are exceptional circumstances • Controlling one's desires and ego is the foundation for all other good deeds

Arguments against: • Lesser jihad (physical struggle) can include defending Islam when under attack, which is also important • Jihad means "to struggle / strive" and includes many forms: studying Islam, supporting family, working honestly • Speaking out against injustice is a form of jihad that affects the wider community • Spreading the message of Islam peacefully is also jihad • The Qur'an permits fighting in self-defence: "Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you" (Surah 2:190) • Different forms of jihad are appropriate in different circumstances; no single form is only important • A balanced approach includes both internal spiritual struggle and external good works

Students may refer to non-religious arguments: • Personal development benefits individuals and society • Fighting extremism and terrorism requires emphasizing peaceful interpretations

Accept other valid responses.

(12 marks + 3 marks SPaG = 15 marks)

Sample Answers with Examiner Commentary

Question 1(e) — Sample Answers

"Infant baptism is more important than believers' baptism." Evaluate this statement.

Grade 9 answer

Many Christians would agree that infant baptism is more important because it welcomes the child into God's family from the very beginning of life. Catholics, Anglicans and Orthodox Christians practise infant baptism and believe it removes original sin, which all humans inherit from Adam and Eve. This gives the child a fresh spiritual start and ensures they are part of the Church from infancy. The ceremony involves parents and godparents making vows on behalf of the child, showing the community's commitment to raise the child in the Christian faith. Furthermore, infant baptism reflects God's grace, which is freely given and not dependent on human understanding or decision-making. God's love is unconditional, so baptizing infants demonstrates that salvation comes from God's initiative, not human merit.

However, other Christians would argue that believers' baptism is more important because it requires personal faith and understanding. Baptists and Pentecostals emphasise that baptism should be a conscious decision made by the individual themselves when they are old enough to understand what it means to follow Jesus. This makes the commitment more meaningful and authentic. Jesus himself was baptized as an adult by John the Baptist in the River Jordan, providing a clear model for believers' baptism. When Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit descended on him like a dove, showing God's approval. Believers' baptism is also a public declaration of faith that demonstrates personal choice and responsibility. The person being baptized can testify to their own faith rather than relying on promises made by others. Additionally, infant baptism may lack genuine commitment because the child had no say in the decision and may not choose to follow Christianity when they grow up.

From a non-religious perspective, modern society values personal autonomy and the right to choose one's own beliefs, which supports the case for believers' baptism over infant baptism.

In conclusion, while infant baptism has important theological significance in demonstrating God's grace and welcoming children into the faith community, I believe that believers' baptism is ultimately more important because it involves a personal, conscious decision to follow Jesus. This personal commitment is more likely to result in a genuine, lasting faith that transforms the individual's life. However, both forms of baptism have value within their respective Christian traditions.

Mark: 12/12 + 3/3 SPaG = 15/15

Examiner commentary: This is an excellent response that demonstrates sustained, critical analysis of the statement. The candidate presents well-developed arguments on both sides, drawing on specific Christian denominations and their theological reasoning. Knowledge of Christian belief and practice is thorough and accurate, including reference to original sin, grace, the example of Jesus's baptism, and the role of the community. The response reaches a justified, personal conclusion that weighs both perspectives thoughtfully. Spelling, punctuation and grammar are consistently accurate, with sophisticated use of specialist terminology throughout (original sin, grace, salvation, Holy Spirit, public declaration of faith).

Grade 6 answer

Some Christians think infant baptism is more important because it brings babies into the Church and makes them part of the Christian community. Catholics and Anglicans baptise babies and believe it washes away original sin. Parents and godparents make promises to help the child learn about God and Jesus. This is good because the child grows up knowing they belong to the Church. Infant baptism also shows God's love because God chooses the baby before the baby can choose God.

On the other hand, some Christians believe believers' baptism is more important. Baptists think people should be baptised when they are old enough to understand what it means. This way, the person can make their own choice to follow Jesus and really mean it. Jesus was baptised as an adult, so this is the example Christians should follow. In believers' baptism, the person being baptised can tell everyone about their faith themselves. With infant baptism, the baby cannot understand what is happening, so it might not mean as much.

I think believers' baptism is more important because people should be able to choose their own religion. If you are baptised as a baby, you might not want to be a Christian when you grow up, but you have already been baptised.

Mark: 8/12 + 2/3 SPaG = 10/15

Examiner commentary: This response shows reasoned consideration of different points of view with some logical chains of reasoning. The candidate identifies relevant Christian beliefs and practices (original sin, promises by godparents, Jesus's baptism, personal choice) and refers to different denominations. However, the arguments lack the depth and development seen in higher-level responses. There is no reference to specific Christian teachings, scripture, or theological concepts like grace or salvation. The conclusion is brief and not fully justified. Spelling, punctuation and grammar are generally accurate with reasonable use of specialist terminology, though some phrases are simplistic ("really mean it," "might not mean as much").

Grade 3 answer

Infant baptism is when babies get baptised and believers' baptism is when adults get baptised. Infant baptism is important because it means the baby is a Christian. The vicar puts water on the baby's head and this makes them part of the Church. The baby's parents promise to teach them about God.

Believers' baptism is when someone who is older decides to become a Christian and gets baptised. They get put all the way under the water. This is important because they choose it themselves.

I think infant baptism is more important because otherwise babies would not be Christians. If you wait until people are adults, they might decide not to be baptised at all. Babies need to be baptised to go to heaven.

Mark: 3/12 + 1/3 SPaG = 4/15

Examiner commentary: This response demonstrates limited understanding of the question and the underlying theological issues. While the candidate identifies the basic difference between infant and believers' baptism and offers a simple point of view, there is minimal development and no meaningful evaluation. The response contains a significant misconception that baptism is necessary to "become a Christian" or to "go to heaven," which oversimplifies Christian teaching on salvation. There is no reference to Christian denominations, scripture, or theological concepts. Arguments are not balanced or reasoned. Use of specialist terminology is basic, and there are some inaccuracies in grammar. To improve, the candidate needs to develop each point with explanation, refer to specific Christian teachings, and consider both sides of the argument more thoroughly before reaching a conclusion.

Question 4(e) — Sample Answers

"Jihad is only about struggling to overcome evil in oneself." Evaluate this statement.

Grade 9 answer

Many Muslims would agree with this statement because the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) taught that the greatest jihad is the inner struggle against one's own sinful desires and weaknesses. This is known as the "greater jihad" (jihad al-akbar). When the Prophet (pbuh) returned from battle, he told his companions that they were returning from the lesser jihad to the greater jihad—the struggle against the self (nafs). This internal spiritual battle involves overcoming temptations such as greed, pride, anger, jealousy and laziness. Every Muslim faces this struggle daily as they try to live according to Allah's will and follow the teachings of the Qur'an. Without inner purification and sincerity (niyyah), external actions become meaningless. The Qur'an emphasises personal responsibility and self-improvement, stating "Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves" (Surah 13:11). Therefore, the inner jihad is fundamental to being a good Muslim and is relevant to every believer in every situation.

However, other Muslims would argue that jihad has a broader meaning and is not only about inner struggle. The word "jihad" literally means "to strive" or "to struggle," and this can take many forms. Lesser jihad (jihad al-asghar) can include physical struggle to defend Islam when Muslims are under attack. The Qur'an permits fighting in self-defence: "Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors" (Surah 2:190). This shows that physical defence of the Muslim community is also a legitimate form of jihad when necessary. Additionally, jihad includes non-violent struggles such as speaking out against injustice, supporting one's family, working honestly to earn a living, gaining knowledge, and peacefully spreading the message of Islam (da'wah). The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said that "the best jihad is to speak a word of truth to a tyrannical ruler" (Hadith), demonstrating that struggling for justice is also jihad. Different forms of jihad are appropriate in different circumstances, and a balanced understanding recognizes both internal and external dimensions.

From a non-religious perspective, emphasizing the internal dimension of jihad is important in combating extremist interpretations that focus only on violence. However, completely ignoring legitimate self-defence or the struggle for justice would be unrealistic.

In conclusion, while the inner struggle to overcome evil in oneself is extremely important and is rightly called the greater jihad, I believe it would be incorrect to say that jihad is only about this. The concept of jihad encompasses multiple forms of striving in the path of Allah, including working for justice, supporting one's community, and, in exceptional circumstances, defending against aggression. The inner and outer dimensions of jihad are interconnected, as a person who has not conquered their own ego and desires cannot effectively serve Allah or the Muslim community in other ways. Therefore, inner jihad is the foundation, but not the only form of jihad.

Mark: 12/12 + 3/3 SPaG = 15/15

Examiner commentary: This is an outstanding response that demonstrates sophisticated theological understanding and critical analysis. The candidate presents detailed, well-reasoned arguments on both sides, drawing on authentic Islamic sources including Qur'anic verses, Hadith, and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). The response distinguishes between greater and lesser jihad, explains the broader meaning of the term, and provides specific examples of different forms of jihad. The conclusion is nuanced and well-justified, acknowledging the primacy of inner struggle while recognizing the legitimacy of other forms. Specialist terminology is used with precision and accuracy throughout (greater/lesser jihad, nafs, niyyah, da'wah). Spelling, punctuation and grammar are excellent.

Grade 6 answer

Some Muslims believe that jihad is only about inner struggle because this is the most important type of jihad. The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) called it the greater jihad when he said that fighting yourself is harder than fighting in battle. Muslims struggle against temptation and try not to sin. They have to overcome greed and selfishness and other bad qualities. This is important for every Muslim because everyone has to try to be a better person and follow Allah's commands. The Qur'an teaches Muslims to improve themselves.

However, other Muslims think jihad has other meanings too. Jihad can mean defending Islam when Muslims are attacked. The Qur'an says Muslims can fight to defend themselves. There is also jihad that is not about fighting, like working hard to support your family or studying Islam. Spreading the message of Islam peacefully is also a form of jihad. So jihad does not only mean inner struggle—it has different meanings in different situations.

In conclusion, I think the statement is partly right because inner struggle is very important and is the greater jihad. But jihad also includes other things like defending Islam and working for justice, so it is not only about overcoming evil in yourself.

Mark: 7/12 + 2/3 SPaG = 9/15

Examiner commentary: This response demonstrates reasoned consideration of different points of view with reference to Islamic teaching. The candidate correctly identifies greater jihad and provides some development of the inner struggle concept. There is recognition that jihad has broader meanings, with relevant examples given (self-defence, supporting family, studying, spreading Islam). However, the arguments lack the depth and specificity of higher-level responses. The Qur'anic reference is generic rather than specific, and there are no direct quotations or detailed Hadith references. The conclusion shows some evaluation but could be more fully developed. Specialist terminology is used appropriately though not extensively. To reach a higher level, the candidate should include specific Qur'anic verses, develop each point more fully, and provide a more justified conclusion.

Grade 3 answer

Jihad means holy war where Muslims fight. Some people think jihad is about fighting evil inside yourself like when you try not to do bad things. This is important because Muslims should be good people and not sin.

But jihad is also about fighting wars to defend Islam. When Muslims are attacked, they can fight back. This is in the Qur'an. Muslims have to do jihad to protect their religion.

I think jihad is not only about inner struggle because it also means fighting in wars. Muslims do jihad when they go to war for Islam.

Mark: 2/12 + 1/3 SPaG = 3/15

Examiner commentary: This response demonstrates limited understanding of the concept of jihad and contains significant misconceptions. The candidate incorrectly defines jihad primarily as "holy war" and focuses heavily on physical fighting, which is an oversimplification of Islamic teaching. While the candidate mentions inner struggle, there is minimal development and no reference to the distinction between greater and lesser jihad or the Prophet's teaching on this. The response lacks specific Islamic sources, Qur'anic quotations, or meaningful reference to Islamic belief. Arguments are not balanced or well-reasoned. To improve, the candidate needs to understand that jihad primarily means "struggle" or "striving," that the greater jihad is the inner spiritual struggle, and that physical jihad is only permitted in specific defensive circumstances. More detailed knowledge of Islamic teaching, specific examples, and balanced evaluation are required to access higher marks.