Mark Scheme

Section A — Structured Questions

Question 1

(a) State what is meant by the term 'enlightenment' in Buddhism. [2]

Award 1 mark for a basic statement: • Freedom from suffering • Understanding the true nature of reality • Awakening

Award 2 marks for a developed statement: • Complete understanding of the Four Noble Truths and the nature of existence / reality • A state of perfect wisdom and compassion, free from ignorance and craving • Liberation from the cycle of rebirth (samsara) • The state achieved by the Buddha when he understood the truth about suffering and how to end it

Accept: nirvana (if explained as the goal/state achieved through enlightenment) Accept: awakening / bodhi (if explained) Reject: just "becoming a Buddha" without explanation

(b) Describe two ways in which Mara tried to prevent Siddhartha from achieving enlightenment. [4]

Award up to 2 marks for each way described (maximum 4 marks):

First way: • Mara sent his daughters / beautiful women to tempt/seduce Siddhartha [1] • To distract him from meditation / to appeal to his desires / to test his commitment [1]

Second way: • Mara sent armies / demons / monsters to frighten/attack Siddhartha [1] • To make him afraid / to force him to leave / showing terrifying forms [1]

Third way (if used instead of first or second): • Mara challenged Siddhartha's right to sit under the tree / claimed the seat for himself [1] • Questioned who would witness his right to be there / tried to undermine his confidence [1]

Accept: any valid detailed description from the passage Reject: vague answers like "he tried to stop him" without detail

(c) Explain why Buddhists believe that meditation is important for their spiritual development. [6]

Level 3 (5-6 marks): A detailed explanation showing understanding of Buddhist teachings with clear links to spiritual development. Uses appropriate terminology. Shows depth of understanding.

Level 2 (3-4 marks): An explanation that shows some understanding but may be list-like or lack development. May include some accurate terminology.

Level 1 (1-2 marks): A basic answer with limited understanding. May be confused or very brief.

Indicative content: • Meditation helps Buddhists to develop mindfulness/awareness • It helps to calm the mind and reduce negative emotions like anger, greed, hatred • The Buddha himself achieved enlightenment through meditation, so Buddhists follow his example • Meditation is part of the Noble Eightfold Path (Right Concentration/Right Mindfulness) • Through meditation, Buddhists can gain insight into the Three Marks of Existence (anicca, anatta, dukkha) • Meditation helps to develop wisdom and compassion • It helps practitioners to overcome ignorance, which is the root cause of suffering • Regular meditation practice can lead towards enlightenment/nirvana • It helps Buddhists to live more peacefully and ethically

Question 2

(a) Name two of the Five Pillars of Islam. [2]

Award 1 mark for each correct Pillar (maximum 2): • Shahadah (declaration of faith) • Salat/Salah (prayer) • Zakat (charitable giving/alms) • Sawm (fasting during Ramadan) • Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah)

Accept: English or Arabic terms if clearly identified Accept: reasonable transliterations Reject: descriptions instead of names (unless clearly identifying the Pillar)

(b) Describe what happens during the festival of Id-ul-Adha. [4]

Award 1 mark for each relevant point, up to 4 marks: • Muslims attend special prayers at the mosque in the morning [1] • An animal (sheep/goat/cow/camel) is sacrificed [1] • The meat is divided into three parts: one for family, one for friends/relatives, one for the poor [1] • It commemorates Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah [1] • Muslims wear new or best clothes [1] • Families gather together to celebrate and feast [1] • It takes place during/after the Hajj pilgrimage [1] • Muslims give gifts and visit relatives [1] • The festival lasts for three/four days [1]

Accept: any four valid, developed points Reject: vague descriptions without specific detail

(c) Explain why Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) is important to Muslims. [6]

Level 3 (5-6 marks): A detailed explanation showing understanding of Islamic teachings with clear reasons for importance. Uses appropriate terminology. Shows depth of understanding.

Level 2 (3-4 marks): An explanation that shows some understanding but may be list-like or lack development. May include some accurate terminology.

Level 1 (1-2 marks): A basic answer with limited understanding. May be confused or very brief.

Indicative content: • Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, a fundamental religious duty • It is commanded by Allah in the Qur'an and demonstrated by the Prophet Muhammad • Muslims believe it must be performed at least once if physically and financially able • It brings forgiveness of sins and spiritual purification/renewal • Demonstrates submission and obedience to Allah • Follows in the footsteps of the Prophet Ibrahim and his family • Creates unity among Muslims – all wear simple white clothes (ihram) showing equality before Allah • Shows commitment to Islam and strengthens faith • Allows Muslims to visit the Ka'bah, Islam's holiest site • Fulfils a religious obligation and brings great spiritual reward • Connects Muslims to Islamic history and the wider Muslim community (ummah)

Question 3

(a) Give two pieces of evidence from the Gospels that support the Christian belief in the resurrection of Jesus. [2]

Award 1 mark for each piece of evidence (maximum 2): • The tomb was found empty (by Mary Magdalene/the women) • Jesus appeared to his disciples after his death • The stone had been rolled away from the tomb • Angels/angel announced that Jesus had risen • Jesus showed his wounds to Thomas/disciples • Jesus ate with the disciples after his resurrection • Over 500 people saw Jesus alive after his death • Jesus spoke to Mary Magdalene in the garden • Jesus appeared to disciples on the road to Emmaus • The grave clothes were left in the tomb

Accept: specific Gospel references if accurate Accept: reasonable descriptions of events from the Gospels

(b) Describe what happened at the Last Supper according to Christian tradition. [4]

Award 1 mark for each relevant point, up to 4 marks: • Jesus ate a meal with his twelve disciples [1] • Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it and gave it to the disciples [1] • He said "This is my body" (or similar words) [1] • Jesus took a cup of wine and blessed it [1] • He said "This is my blood" / the blood of the new covenant [1] • He told them to do this in remembrance of him [1] • Jesus predicted that one of them (Judas) would betray him [1] • Jesus washed the disciples' feet [1] • It was a Passover meal / took place during Passover [1] • Jesus predicted Peter would deny him [1]

Accept: any four valid, developed points Accept: reasonable paraphrasing of Gospel accounts

(c) Explain why the death of Jesus on the cross is important for Christian beliefs about salvation. [6]

Level 3 (5-6 marks): A detailed explanation showing understanding of Christian teachings on salvation. Uses appropriate terminology. Makes clear links between Jesus' death and salvation. Shows depth of understanding.

Level 2 (3-4 marks): An explanation that shows some understanding but may be list-like or lack development. May include some accurate terminology.

Level 1 (1-2 marks): A basic answer with limited understanding. May be confused or very brief.

Indicative content: • Christians believe Jesus died to save humanity from sin • His death was a sacrifice – he gave his life for others • Jesus took the punishment for human sin (substitutionary atonement) • His death made reconciliation between God and humanity possible • Through Jesus' death, the barrier of sin separating humans from God was removed • Jesus' death fulfilled Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah • It demonstrates God's love for humanity – that God was willing to send his Son to die • Jesus' death, followed by resurrection, conquered sin and death • It offers forgiveness and eternal life to those who believe • The crucifixion was necessary for salvation – only God in human form could bridge the gap • Jesus died as a perfect/sinless sacrifice, unlike animal sacrifices in the Old Testament • His death established a new covenant between God and humanity

Question 4

(a) State two religious duties that Jews are expected to perform. [2]

Award 1 mark for each duty (maximum 2): • Observe the Sabbath (Shabbat) • Keep kosher dietary laws • Pray three times daily • Study the Torah • Give to charity (tzedakah) • Observe Jewish festivals (Pesach, Yom Kippur, etc.) • Wear tefillin (for men) • Attend synagogue • Circumcision for males (brit milah) • Teach children about Judaism • Keep the Ten Commandments / the 613 mitzvot

Accept: specific or general duties if clearly religious Reject: purely ethical duties with no religious dimension mentioned

(b) Describe the main features of worship in a synagogue. [4]

Award 1 mark for each relevant point, up to 4 marks: • Reading from the Torah scroll [1] • Prayers are recited in Hebrew (and/or the local language) [1] • The Ark (Aron Hakodesh) is opened to take out or return the Torah [1] • Men wear kippah (skull cap) and tallit (prayer shawl) [1] • The rabbi may give a sermon or teach from the Torah [1] • Services are led by a rabbi or cantor [1] • The congregation faces Jerusalem when praying [1] • Prayers include the Shema and Amidah [1] • Men and women may sit separately (in Orthodox synagogues) [1] • A minyan (10 adult males/people) is required for certain prayers [1] • Singing of psalms and hymns [1]

Accept: any four valid, developed points Accept: distinctions between Orthodox and Reform practices if explained

(c) Explain why keeping the Sabbath (Shabbat) holy is important to Jews. [6]

Level 3 (5-6 marks): A detailed explanation showing understanding of Jewish teachings with clear reasons for importance. Uses appropriate terminology. Shows depth of understanding.

Level 2 (3-4 marks): An explanation that shows some understanding but may be list-like or lack development. May include some accurate terminology.

Level 1 (1-2 marks): A basic answer with limited understanding. May be confused or very brief.

Indicative content: • It is commanded in the Ten Commandments (third/fourth commandment) • God rested on the seventh day of creation, so Jews imitate God • It is a sign of the covenant between God and the Jewish people • Provides a weekly reminder of God's role as Creator • Gives time for rest, worship and family • Separates Jews from the ordinary working week – makes them distinct/holy • Allows time to focus on spiritual rather than material concerns • Strengthens Jewish identity and community • Has been observed by Jews for thousands of years, maintaining tradition • Following God's commands shows obedience and devotion • The Sabbath is described as a "delight" and a gift from God • Provides regular opportunity for Torah study and prayer • Strengthens family bonds through shared meals and time together

Section B — Extended Response

Question 5

(a) Explain how religious belief might give meaning and purpose to a person's life. [8]

Level 4 (7-8 marks): A thorough explanation showing excellent understanding of how religious belief provides meaning and purpose. Multiple well-developed points with clear examples. Excellent use of religious terminology. Shows depth and breadth of understanding.

Level 3 (5-6 marks): A good explanation showing clear understanding. Several developed points. Good use of religious terminology. Some depth of understanding shown.

Level 2 (3-4 marks): A satisfactory explanation showing some understanding. May be list-like or lack full development. Some use of religious terminology.

Level 1 (1-2 marks): A basic answer with limited understanding. May be very brief or show confusion. Little or no religious terminology.

Indicative content: • Religious beliefs provide answers to fundamental questions (Why am I here? What is the purpose of life?) • Many religions teach that humans are created by God with a specific purpose • Religious beliefs give guidance on how to live (through scriptures, teachings, commandments) • Believers may feel their purpose is to worship God and follow His will • Religious beliefs can provide goals (e.g., achieving enlightenment, entering heaven, becoming closer to God) • Religion provides a moral framework – knowing right from wrong gives meaning to choices • Believers may find purpose in serving others as an expression of their faith • Religious community gives a sense of belonging and shared purpose • Faith can help people through difficult times – suffering has meaning in a religious context • Religious teachings about the afterlife give meaning to earthly life • Following religious practices (prayer, pilgrimage, etc.) structures life with meaningful activities • Examples from specific religions (e.g., Christianity – humans created in God's image; Buddhism – purpose is to end suffering and achieve enlightenment; Islam – humans are khalifah/stewards of creation)

(b) 'Religious people have a duty to help others who are suffering.'

Discuss this statement. Give your own opinion and show that you have thought about different points of view. You must refer to religious beliefs in your answer. [12]

Level 4 (10-12 marks): An excellent discussion showing understanding of multiple perspectives. Clear reference to religious beliefs and teachings. Detailed arguments for and against. Personal opinion is clearly stated and justified. Excellent use of religious terminology throughout. Shows sophistication in handling different viewpoints.

Level 3 (7-9 marks): A good discussion showing understanding of different perspectives. Clear reference to some religious beliefs. Arguments for and against are present. Personal opinion is stated. Good use of religious terminology. Balanced consideration of viewpoints.

Level 2 (4-6 marks): A satisfactory discussion with some balance. Some reference to religious beliefs, though may be general. Arguments may be underdeveloped or one-sided. Personal opinion may be present but not well justified. Some use of religious terminology.

Level 1 (1-3 marks): A limited discussion. May be largely one-sided or very brief. Little reference to religious beliefs or teachings. Personal opinion may be absent or unjustified. Little or no religious terminology.

Indicative content:

Arguments supporting the statement: • Most religions teach compassion and care for others (e.g., Christian teaching to "love your neighbour") • Religious texts contain commands to help the poor and suffering (e.g., Qur'an on charity; Hebrew Bible on justice) • The concept of zakat in Islam makes helping others a religious duty (a Pillar of Islam) • Christianity teaches service to others – Jesus washed disciples' feet, healed the sick • Buddhism emphasizes karuna (compassion) and helping others reduce suffering • The Jewish concept of tzedakah means justice/righteousness, not just charity – it is obligatory • Religious believers believe God commands them to help others • The Golden Rule found in many religions – treat others as you wish to be treated • Many religions teach that all humans are equal/sacred, therefore deserving of help • Helping others is a way to express faith and obey God • Religious teachings on judgment – believers will be judged on how they treated others (e.g., Parable of the Sheep and Goats) • Concept of ummah (Muslim community) or sangha (Buddhist community) creates responsibility for others

Arguments against the statement / other perspectives: • Some argue people should help themselves rather than depend on others • Religious people might prioritize worship or personal spiritual development over helping others • Not all religious believers have the resources to help others effectively • Some might argue there's no absolute "duty" – helping should come from genuine compassion, not obligation • People of any belief or none can help others – it's not specifically a religious duty • Some religious people might focus on helping their own community rather than all suffering people • Practical limitations – cannot help everyone who is suffering • Some might argue that helping others should be the role of government, not individuals • The duty to family might take precedence over duty to strangers • Non-religious ethical systems also emphasize helping others (e.g., humanism)

Personal opinion: • Can agree, disagree, or take a nuanced position • Should be clearly stated and justified with reasons

Sample Answers with Examiner Commentary

Question 5(b) — Sample Answers

Grade A (high distinction) answer*

I believe that religious people do have a duty to help others who are suffering, and this view is strongly supported by most religious teachings.

In Christianity, Jesus taught his followers to "love your neighbour as yourself," which is one of the greatest commandments. The Parable of the Good Samaritan shows that a "neighbour" is anyone in need, regardless of their background, and that believers should actively help them. Christians also believe that Jesus showed compassion by healing the sick and feeding the hungry, and they should follow his example. Furthermore, in Matthew 25, Jesus teaches that on Judgment Day, people will be judged based on how they treated "the least of these" – feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and visiting prisoners. This shows that helping suffering people is not optional but a requirement for Christians.

Islam also teaches that helping others is a fundamental duty. Zakat, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, requires Muslims to give 2.5% of their wealth to the poor each year. This is not just recommended but obligatory, showing that helping suffering people is an essential part of Islamic faith. The Qur'an repeatedly emphasizes caring for orphans, widows, and the poor. Muslims believe they will be accountable to Allah for how they used their wealth and whether they helped those in need.

However, some people might argue that helping others should come from genuine compassion rather than duty or obligation. If religious people help only because they fear punishment or hope for reward, their actions might not be truly moral. Secular humanists, for example, argue that people should help others because of shared human dignity, not because God commands it.

Additionally, there are practical limitations. Not every religious person has the resources to help everyone who is suffering in the world. They may have duties to their own families that must take priority, or they may not be in a position to help effectively. Some might argue that governments and large organizations are better equipped to help suffering people than individuals.

Despite these points, I strongly believe that religious teachings create a moral duty to help others. While it is true that not everyone can help in every situation, religions teach that believers should do what they can within their means. The fact that help is commanded by God does not make it less genuine – rather, it provides a strong motivation and framework for compassionate action. Furthermore, many religious believers throughout history have made enormous sacrifices to help suffering people, inspired by their faith – from Mother Teresa to Islamic relief organizations. This shows that religious duty and genuine compassion can work together.

In conclusion, religious teachings across different faiths consistently emphasize the importance of helping those who suffer, and I believe this creates a genuine duty for believers. While non-religious people can also be compassionate, religious belief provides specific commands, motivations, and community support for this duty.

Mark: 12/12

Examiner Commentary: This is an excellent answer that demonstrates sophisticated understanding. The candidate presents multiple, well-developed arguments with specific religious examples (Good Samaritan, Matthew 25, Zakat). Different religious perspectives are compared (Christianity and Islam). Counter-arguments are acknowledged and addressed thoughtfully. The personal opinion is clearly stated, well-justified, and shows engagement with the complexity of the issue. Religious terminology is used accurately throughout (Zakat, Five Pillars, Qur'an). The answer is well-structured with clear paragraphs and a conclusion. This response demonstrates all the characteristics of Level 4 performance.

Grade C (pass) answer

I agree that religious people have a duty to help others who are suffering because most religions teach that this is important.

Christians believe they should help others because Jesus helped people. He healed sick people and told his followers to love their neighbours. The Bible says to treat others how you want to be treated, which means if you were suffering you would want help, so you should help others. Christians believe that when they help poor people or suffering people, it is like helping Jesus himself.

Muslims also have to help people who are suffering. They have to give charity called Zakat which is one of the Five Pillars. This means they have to give money to poor people. Muslims believe Allah wants them to be kind and generous to others.

Buddhism teaches about compassion, which means caring about others who are suffering. Buddhists believe they should help others because it is the right thing to do and it helps them on the path to enlightenment.

However, some people might say that you don't have to be religious to help others. Non-religious people can be kind and caring too. Also, some religious people might not have enough money to help everyone, so they can't always help suffering people even if they want to.

I think religious people should try to help suffering people when they can because their religion teaches them to do this. It is a good thing to do and it shows they really believe in their faith. But they also have to look after their own families first.

Mark: 7/12

Examiner Commentary: This is a solid mid-range answer that demonstrates satisfactory understanding. The candidate presents arguments from multiple religions (Christianity, Islam, Buddhism) with some accurate detail (Jesus healing, Zakat as a Pillar). However, the arguments lack the depth and development seen in higher-level answers. The counter-argument about non-religious people is mentioned but not fully explored. The personal opinion is stated but not strongly justified. Religious terminology is used with some accuracy, though explanations are sometimes basic. The answer would benefit from more specific examples and deeper analysis of why these teachings create a "duty" rather than just a recommendation. To reach the next level, the candidate should develop points more fully and engage with more sophisticated counter-arguments.

Grade E (near miss) answer

Religious people should help others because it is a nice thing to do. Religions teach people to be kind and good.

Christians help people because God wants them to. Jesus helped people when he was alive so Christians should copy him. They give to charity and help poor people. This shows they are good Christians.

Other religions like Islam and Judaism also say to help people. They believe in God too and God wants everyone to be kind to each other.

Some people might say that religious people only help because they want to go to heaven, not because they really care. Also not all religious people are nice – some do bad things even though their religion says not to.

I think religious people should help suffering people because that is what their religion says. It is the right thing to do.

Mark: 3/12

Examiner Commentary: This answer demonstrates limited understanding and achieves only low Level 2. While the candidate shows some awareness that religions teach helping others, the explanation lacks specific detail and depth. Statements are very general ("nice thing to do," "be kind and good") without reference to specific teachings, scriptures, or concepts. The mention of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism is superficial with no development. The counter-argument about motivation is relevant but not explored. The personal opinion is stated but with minimal justification. To improve, the candidate needs to: (1) provide specific examples from religious teachings (e.g., parables, commandments, pillars); (2) use accurate religious terminology; (3) develop arguments more fully with explanation of why religions teach these things; (4) structure the answer more clearly with distinct paragraphs for different arguments. The candidate should also avoid vague phrases and demonstrate deeper knowledge of religious beliefs about duty and compassion.

Question 5(a) — Sample Answers

Grade A (high distinction) answer*

Religious belief gives meaning and purpose to life in several significant ways.

Firstly, religious beliefs provide answers to fundamental questions about human existence, such as "Why do we exist?" and "What is the purpose of life?" For example, Christians believe that humans are created in the image of God (imago Dei) and exist to have a relationship with their Creator. This gives profound meaning to life – people are not just accidents of evolution but intentionally created beings with inherent value and purpose. Similarly, Muslims believe that humans are created as khalifah (stewards or trustees) of Allah's creation, which gives them a clear purpose: to care for the world and live according to Allah's guidance in the Qur'an.

Secondly, religion provides moral guidance that gives meaning to choices and actions. For instance, the Ten Commandments in Judaism and Christianity offer clear principles for living ethically. When Jews observe these commandments, they are fulfilling their part of the covenant with God, which gives deep meaning to their daily actions. Similarly, Buddhists follow the Noble Eightfold Path, which gives structure and purpose to their lives by guiding them toward enlightenment and the end of suffering.

Thirdly, many religions teach that life has a purpose beyond this world. Christians believe in eternal life with God in heaven, which gives meaning to earthly suffering and challenges – these can be endured because they are temporary compared to eternal joy. Hindus and Buddhists believe in reincarnation, where the purpose of this life is to improve karma and eventually achieve moksha or nirvana. This means that every action has significance beyond the present moment.

Religious belief also creates a sense of belonging and community. Being part of a religious community (such as the Christian Church, the Muslim ummah, or the Jewish community) gives people a shared identity and purpose. Working together for religious goals – whether that is worship, charity, or social justice – provides meaningful relationships and activities.

Finally, religious practices themselves provide structure and meaning. For example, Muslims praying five times daily (Salat) creates a rhythm to life centered on remembrance of Allah. Jewish observance of Shabbat each week provides regular time for rest, family, and spiritual focus, separating the holy from the mundane. These practices continually remind believers of their religious purpose and identity.

Therefore, religious belief gives meaning and purpose through answering life's big questions, providing moral guidance, teaching about ultimate destiny, creating community, and structuring daily life with meaningful practices.

Mark: 8/8

Examiner Commentary: This is an outstanding answer demonstrating excellent understanding and comprehensive coverage. The candidate presents multiple well-developed points with specific religious examples (imago Dei, khalifah, covenant, Noble Eightfold Path, ummah). Religious terminology is used accurately and effectively throughout. The answer shows both breadth (covering different religions) and depth (explaining how each belief gives meaning). Each paragraph develops a distinct idea clearly. The structure is excellent with clear progression and a concluding summary. This response fully meets all Level 4 criteria.

Grade C (pass) answer

Religious beliefs give meaning and purpose to people's lives in different ways.

One way is that religion tells people why they are here. For example, Christians believe that God created humans for a reason, to worship him and have a relationship with him. This gives meaning because people know they are here for a purpose, not just by accident. Muslims also believe Allah created them and they should follow the Qur'an.

Another way is that religion gives people rules about how to live. The Ten Commandments tell Jews and Christians what is right and wrong. This helps them make good decisions and live a good life. Buddhism has the Eightfold Path which tells Buddhists how to live properly and reach enlightenment. Having these rules gives purpose because people know what they should be doing.

Religion also teaches about what happens after death. Christians believe in heaven and hell, so the purpose of life is to get to heaven by following God. Hindus and Buddhists believe in reincarnation, so the purpose is to be good so you have a better next life. This gives meaning because life is not just about the present but about the future too.

Religious people also have a community which gives them purpose. They worship together and help each other. For example, Muslims go to the mosque together and this makes them feel part of something bigger.

Finally, religious practices like prayer give structure to life. Muslims pray five times a day which reminds them of Allah. This gives meaning to each day.

So religious belief gives meaning and purpose by explaining why we are here, how we should live, what happens after death, giving community, and through practices.

Mark: 6/8

Examiner Commentary: This is a good answer that demonstrates clear understanding and covers several relevant points. The candidate addresses different ways religion provides meaning (origins, moral guidance, afterlife, community, practices) with examples from multiple religions. However, the explanations lack the depth and precision of a top-level answer. For instance, "God created humans for a reason" could be developed with specific concepts like imago Dei; "having these rules gives purpose" could explain more about why following rules creates purpose (e.g., fulfilling covenant, submitting to God's will). Religious terminology is used but could be more sophisticated. The answer is clearly structured and shows good breadth but needs more detailed development to reach Level 4. To improve, the candidate should expand each point with more specific examples and deeper analysis.

Grade E (near miss) answer

Religious beliefs give meaning and purpose to life because they tell people about God and what to do.

Religious people believe in God and this makes their life have meaning. They go to church or mosque or temple to worship God. This gives them something to do and makes them feel good. Christians believe in Jesus and this is important to them.

Religion also tells people to be good and not do bad things. This helps them know right from wrong. For example, don't steal or kill. If people follow their religion they will be good people and go to heaven when they die.

Religious people also have friends at their place of worship. This gives them a community and people to talk to. This makes life have more meaning because they are not alone.

Some people don't believe in religion and they still have meaning in their life, so maybe religion is not the only way to have purpose. But for religious people it is important.

Mark: 2/8

Examiner Commentary: This answer demonstrates limited understanding and only achieves Level 1. While the candidate shows basic awareness that religion provides meaning, the explanation is very superficial and lacks specific detail. Statements like "makes them feel good" and "tells people to be good" are too vague and do not demonstrate understanding of how religious beliefs provide meaning. There is minimal use of religious terminology and no reference to specific teachings, concepts, or practices beyond generic mentions of church/mosque/temple and Jesus. The final paragraph about non-religious people is irrelevant to the question asked. To improve significantly, the candidate must: (1) provide specific examples from religious teachings; (2) explain concepts in detail (e.g., what Christians believe about Jesus and why this gives meaning); (3) use accurate religious terminology; (4) develop points with clear explanation rather than assertion; (5) avoid vague language like "makes them feel good." The candidate needs to demonstrate actual knowledge of religious beliefs rather than general impressions.