Mark Scheme

Section A — Structured Questions

Question 1

(a) [1 mark]

Award 1 mark for: • God is all-powerful • God can do anything • Nothing is impossible for God • God has unlimited power • God has power over creation • Accept any valid characteristic of omnipotence

(b) [3 marks]

Award 1 mark for each of the following points (maximum 3 marks): • God exists as three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit • The three persons are distinct but one God / co-eternal / co-equal • The Father is the creator • The Son is Jesus Christ / God incarnate / the Word made flesh • The Holy Spirit is God's presence in the world / in believers • All three persons are fully God • This is a mystery that cannot be fully understood • Reference to Nicene Creed • Reference to baptism in the name of Father, Son and Holy Spirit

Accept: Valid development or examples Maximum 3 marks

(c) [4 marks]

Award marks according to the following levels:

Level 2 (3–4 marks): • A detailed explanation showing knowledge and understanding of the importance of the resurrection • Clear explanation with developed reasoning • Accurate use of specialist language and vocabulary • Good understanding of the question

Level 1 (1–2 marks): • A limited explanation showing some knowledge and understanding • Information may be in the form of a list with little or no explanation or development • Limited use of specialist language and vocabulary • Limited understanding of the question

Indicative content: • Proves Jesus is the Son of God / divine • Shows Jesus' power over death • Gives Christians hope of eternal life / their own resurrection • Confirms that Jesus paid the price for sin / achieved atonement • Fulfils Old Testament prophecy • Central to Christian faith / "If Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless" (1 Corinthians 15) • Celebrated at Easter, the most important Christian festival • Basis for belief in life after death • Shows God's love and power • Allows for possibility of salvation

Accept: Other relevant points

(d) [12 marks]

Award marks according to the following levels:

Level 4 (10–12 marks): • A well-argued response, reasoned consideration of different points of view • Logical chains of reasoning leading to judgement(s) supported by knowledge and understanding of relevant evidence and information • References to religion applied to the issue • Thorough understanding of the question demonstrated

Level 3 (7–9 marks): • Reasoned consideration of different points of view • Logical chains of reasoning that draw on knowledge and understanding of relevant evidence and information • Clear reference to religion • Good understanding of the question demonstrated

Level 2 (4–6 marks): • Reasoned consideration of a point of view • A logical chain of reasoning drawing on knowledge and understanding of relevant evidence and information OR • Recognition of different points of view, each supported by relevant reasons/evidence • Basic reference to religion • Adequate understanding of the question demonstrated

Level 1 (1–3 marks): • Point of view with reason(s) stated in support • Limited use of knowledge and understanding • Minimal or no reference to religion • Limited understanding of the question demonstrated

0 marks: No response or no response worthy of credit

Indicative content:

Arguments supporting the statement: • Existence of natural evil (earthquakes, diseases) seems incompatible with an all-loving, all-powerful God • Existence of moral evil (murder, war, cruelty) suggests God either cannot or will not prevent suffering • The scale and severity of suffering (Holocaust, childhood cancer) makes God's existence questionable • If God is omnipotent, He could stop evil; if He is omnibenevolent, He would want to; yet evil exists • Inconsistent triad: God cannot be all-loving, all-powerful and all-knowing if evil exists • Atheist philosophers like Hume and Mackie use problem of evil to deny God's existence • Innocent suffering (babies, animals) is particularly difficult to reconcile with a loving God

Arguments supporting a different view: • Evil is the result of human free will, which God gave as a gift • Without the possibility of evil, humans would not be truly free • Soul-making theodicy (Irenaeus): suffering helps humans develop morally and spiritually • Suffering is a test of faith / part of God's plan that humans cannot fully understand • The Fall introduced sin and suffering into the world through human choice • Jesus' crucifixion shows God shares in human suffering • Evil is the absence of good, not something created by God (Augustine) • Heaven will compensate for earthly suffering • The existence of evil makes good more meaningful / enables virtues like courage and compassion • Many believers maintain faith despite suffering, suggesting evil doesn't disprove God

Personal viewpoint and justified conclusion expected.

Accept: Other relevant points with appropriate religious support

Question 2

(a) [2 marks]

Award 1 mark for each of two from: • Belief in particular judgement (judgement at death) • Belief in general/final judgement (at the end of time) • Jesus will judge the living and the dead • People will be judged on their faith and actions • Parable of the Sheep and Goats teaches about judgement • Those who accept Jesus as saviour will go to heaven • Those who reject Jesus/sin without repentance will go to hell • Catholics believe in purgatory for purification before heaven • Reference to Book of Revelation • "At the name of Jesus every knee should bow"

Accept: Valid alternatives Maximum 2 marks

(b) [5 marks]

Award marks according to the following levels:

Level 2 (4–5 marks): • A detailed explanation showing knowledge and understanding of salvation • Clear explanation with developed reasoning • Accurate use of specialist language and vocabulary • Good understanding of the question

Level 1 (1–3 marks): • A limited explanation showing some knowledge and understanding • Information may be in the form of a list with little or no explanation or development • Limited use of specialist language and vocabulary • Limited understanding of the question

Indicative content: • Salvation means being saved from sin and its consequences • Through Jesus' death and resurrection, humanity can be reconciled with God • Jesus' sacrifice was atonement for human sin • Christians believe Jesus died to pay the price for sin • Salvation is a gift of God's grace, not earned by works (Protestant emphasis) • Faith in Jesus Christ is necessary for salvation • Some Christians believe good works and sacraments are also necessary (Catholic view) • Salvation leads to eternal life with God • "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son..." (John 3:16) • Baptism is associated with salvation / washing away of sin • Different denominations have different views on predestination vs free will in salvation • Salvation restores the relationship between God and humanity broken by the Fall

Accept: Other relevant points with development

Question 3

(a) [2 marks]

Award 1 mark for a correct name of Allah + 1 mark for correct explanation:

Examples: • Ar-Rahman – the Most Compassionate/Merciful • Ar-Rahim – the Most Merciful • Al-Malik – the King/Sovereign • Al-Khaliq – the Creator • Al-Wadud – the Loving One • Al-Qawi – the All-Strong/Powerful • As-Sami – the All-Hearing • Al-Basir – the All-Seeing • Al-Alim – the All-Knowing

Award marks for: • 1 mark: Correct name stated • 1 mark: Accurate explanation of what the name means

Accept: Any of the 99 Names with accurate meaning Maximum 2 marks

(b) [3 marks]

Award 1 mark for each of the following points (maximum 3 marks): • Tawhid means the oneness/unity of Allah • Allah is one, unique, indivisible • Nothing is comparable to Allah / "There is nothing like Him" • Allah has no partners, no children, no equals • Shirk (associating partners with Allah) is the greatest sin • The Shahadah declares "There is no god but Allah" • Tawhid is the most fundamental Muslim belief • Rejection of the Christian Trinity as incompatible with Tawhid • Allah is eternal and was not created • "Say: He is Allah, the One" (Surah 112)

Accept: Valid development or examples Maximum 3 marks

(c) [5 marks]

Award marks according to the following levels:

Level 2 (4–5 marks): • A detailed explanation showing knowledge and understanding • Clear explanation with developed reasoning • Accurate use of specialist language and vocabulary • Good understanding of the question

Level 1 (1–3 marks): • A limited explanation showing some knowledge and understanding • Information may be in the form of a list with little or no explanation or development • Limited use of specialist language and vocabulary • Limited understanding of the question

Indicative content: • Provides motivation to live according to Allah's will / follow Shari'ah • Encourages Muslims to perform good deeds / avoid sin • Belief that all actions will be judged fairly by Allah • Creates sense of accountability for one's choices • Gives meaning and purpose to this life / not just random existence • Provides hope and comfort that justice will be done • Those who suffer injustice in this life will receive justice • Rewards of Jannah (paradise) motivate righteous behaviour • Fear of Jahannam (hell) discourages wrongdoing • Two angels (Munkar and Nakir) will question the dead • Books of deeds will be opened on Day of Judgement • Al-Jannah is described in the Qur'an as having rivers, gardens, eternal bliss • Life is a test and the Day of Judgement is when results are revealed • Encourages regular self-examination and repentance

Accept: Other relevant points with development

Question 4

(a) [1 mark]

Award 1 mark for: • Prophets • Messengers • Rasul • Nabi

Accept: Any correct term

(b) [3 marks]

Award 1 mark for each of the following points (maximum 3 marks): • The Qur'an is the final, complete revelation of Allah • It was revealed to Muhammad by the angel Jibril (Gabriel) • The Qur'an is the literal word of Allah / Allah's exact words • It is uncreated and eternal / has existed forever with Allah • The Qur'an is perfect and cannot be changed • It was revealed in Arabic and this is the only true version • Muslims believe it contains guidance for all aspects of life • It confirms and completes previous revelations (Torah, Gospel) • The Qur'an has been perfectly preserved since revelation • Recitation of the Qur'an is an act of worship • Muslims treat the Qur'an with great respect (washing before touching, placing on high shelf) • It is divided into 114 surahs (chapters) • Contains teachings on belief, worship, morality and law

Accept: Valid development or examples Maximum 3 marks

Section B — Extended Response

Question 5 [13 marks]

Award marks according to the following levels:

Level 4 (10–13 marks): • A well-argued response, reasoned consideration of different points of view • Logical chains of reasoning leading to judgement(s) supported by knowledge and understanding of relevant evidence and information • References to Christian teaching applied to the issue • Thorough understanding of the question demonstrated

Level 3 (7–9 marks): • Reasoned consideration of different points of view • Logical chains of reasoning that draw on knowledge and understanding of relevant evidence and information • Clear reference to Christian teaching • Good understanding of the question demonstrated

Level 2 (4–6 marks): • Reasoned consideration of a point of view • A logical chain of reasoning drawing on knowledge and understanding of relevant evidence and information OR • Recognition of different points of view, each supported by relevant reasons/evidence • Basic reference to Christian teaching • Adequate understanding of the question demonstrated

Level 1 (1–3 marks): • Point of view with reason(s) stated in support • Limited use of knowledge and understanding • Minimal or no reference to Christian teaching • Limited understanding of the question demonstrated

0 marks: No response or no response worthy of credit

Indicative content:

Arguments supporting the statement (focus on this life): • Jesus taught followers to care for the poor, sick and oppressed in this world • "Love your neighbour as yourself" emphasises earthly relationships • Parable of the Sheep and Goats shows judgement based on caring for others in this life • "The kingdom of God is among you" suggests focus on present, not just future • Focusing too much on afterlife can lead to neglecting responsibilities in this world • Liberation theology emphasises working for justice now, not just waiting for heaven • Christians should follow Jesus' example of healing, feeding and helping people • Stewardship responsibility to care for God's creation in the present • "Thy kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven" suggests bringing God's will into current reality • Some Christians believe excessive focus on afterlife is escapism from real-world problems • Social Gospel movement emphasises improving society now

Arguments supporting a different view (focus on afterlife): • Belief in eternal life is central to Christian faith / resurrection of Jesus proves this • "Store up treasures in heaven" teaches that eternal matters are more important • This life is temporary; eternity is forever, so it deserves primary focus • Jesus said "My kingdom is not of this world" • Belief in heaven gives hope and comfort in times of suffering • Martyrs were willing to die because they prioritised eternal life • Paul wrote "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain" • The promise of heaven motivates Christians to endure persecution • Preparation for eternity through faith and repentance is essential • "What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?" • Eschatological expectation of Christ's return focuses attention on the life to come • Early Christians lived in expectation of imminent return of Christ

Possible balanced view: • Christians should balance concern for both this life and the next • Faith in afterlife motivates good works in this life • Caring for this world is preparation for the next • Jesus taught about both earthly living and eternal life

Personal viewpoint and justified conclusion expected.

Accept: Other relevant points with appropriate Christian teaching referenced

Sample Answers with Examiner Commentary

Question 1(d) — Sample Answers

Grade 9 (top of Higher) answer

Many people argue that the problem of evil proves God cannot exist because of the inconsistent triad. If God is omnipotent (all-powerful), omniscient (all-knowing) and omnibenevolent (all-loving), then evil and suffering should not exist. An all-powerful God would be able to stop evil, an all-loving God would want to stop it, and an all-knowing God would know how to stop it. Yet we see enormous suffering in the world – natural disasters killing thousands, children dying of cancer, genocides like the Holocaust. This seems to prove that either God lacks one of these characteristics, or God doesn't exist at all. The atheist philosopher Mackie argued that these three qualities are logically incompatible with the existence of evil, making God's existence impossible.

However, many Christians reject this conclusion and offer theological responses. The Free Will Defence argues that God gave humans genuine free will, which is a greater good that requires the possibility of choosing evil. Without the real option to do wrong, humans would be robots or puppets, not free moral agents. God values human freedom so much that He permits us to make wrong choices, even though this results in moral evil like murder and cruelty. The value of free will outweighs the negative consequences of its misuse.

To address natural evil like earthquakes and diseases, Christians point to the Augustinian theodicy, which traces all suffering back to the Fall. When Adam and Eve sinned, they broke the perfect relationship with God and corrupted all of creation. Natural evil entered the world as a consequence of human sin, not because of God's design. Additionally, the Irenaean theodicy suggests that suffering serves a purpose in soul-making – it allows humans to develop virtues like courage, compassion and perseverance that wouldn't be possible in a world without challenges. This world is a "vale of soul-making" where people grow spiritually through facing difficulties.

Christians also emphasize that God shares in human suffering through Jesus' crucifixion. God isn't distant from pain but entered into it Himself. The promise of resurrection and eternal life in heaven means that temporary earthly suffering will be compensated by eternal joy. As Paul wrote, "our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us."

Personally, I believe the problem of evil doesn't definitively prove God cannot exist, but it does raise serious questions that require faith to answer. The Free Will Defence explains moral evil convincingly, but natural evil affecting innocent children and animals remains troubling. Many Christians maintain strong faith despite experiencing terrible suffering, which suggests that evil and belief in God can coexist, even if we cannot fully understand why God permits suffering. The Christian response acknowledges the reality of evil while trusting in God's ultimate goodness and plan.

Mark: 12/12

Examiner commentary: This excellent response demonstrates all the qualities of Level 4. It presents sophisticated, well-developed arguments on both sides, using philosophical terminology accurately (inconsistent triad, omnipotent, omnibenevolent). The answer references specific Christian theodicies (Augustinian and Irenaean), names philosophers (Mackie), and incorporates biblical teaching. The reasoning is logical and sustained, leading to a nuanced, justified conclusion that weighs the evidence. The response thoroughly addresses the question with excellent understanding of Christianity.

Grade 6 (solid pass) answer

Some people think the problem of evil proves God cannot exist because there is so much suffering in the world. If God is all-powerful and all-loving, He should stop bad things from happening. But we see wars, diseases and natural disasters that kill innocent people. This makes it seem like God either cannot stop evil (so He's not all-powerful) or He doesn't want to stop it (so He's not all-loving). Either way, this suggests that God as Christians describe Him doesn't exist.

However, Christians have responses to this problem. One important answer is free will. God gave humans free will so they could choose to love Him and do good. But free will also means people can choose to do evil things. God doesn't want to take away our freedom by forcing us to be good, so He allows us to make bad choices. This explains why there is evil in the world – it's because of human choices, not because God wants evil to exist.

Christians also believe that evil came into the world because of the Fall, when Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden. Before that, the world was perfect, but their sin corrupted creation. So evil isn't God's fault – it's the result of human disobedience.

Another Christian response is that suffering can help people grow stronger and develop good qualities. For example, going through difficult times can make someone more compassionate or brave. Some Christians believe God allows suffering because it helps people become better.

Christians also point to Jesus' suffering on the cross. This shows that God understands human pain and isn't distant from it. Jesus died for our sins so we could go to heaven, where there will be no more suffering.

I think the problem of evil is difficult but doesn't completely prove God doesn't exist. Christians can explain some evil through free will, though natural disasters are harder to explain. Many religious people still believe in God even though evil exists, so it's possible to have faith despite suffering.

Mark: 7/12

Examiner commentary: This is a solid Level 3 response demonstrating good understanding. The candidate presents both sides with clear reasoning and makes relevant references to Christian teaching (free will, the Fall, Jesus' crucifixion). However, the arguments lack the depth and sophistication of top-band answers – there's no mention of specific theodicies by name, limited philosophical terminology, and less development of the logical chains of reasoning. The conclusion is present but somewhat brief. To reach Level 4, the response would need more detailed Christian teaching, more sustained reasoning, and deeper analysis.

Grade 3 (near miss) answer

The problem of evil is when people say that if God exists there wouldn't be evil in the world. There is lots of evil like murder and terrorism and earthquakes. So this proves that God doesn't exist because a good God wouldn't let these things happen.

But Christians believe God does exist. They say that evil exists because of the devil. The devil tempts people to do bad things and causes problems in the world. God and the devil are fighting against each other. God is good and wants people to be happy, but the devil causes evil.

Also, evil exists because humans have free will. This means we can choose what to do. Some people choose to do bad things like stealing or hurting others. God gave us free will so it's not His fault when we make bad choices.

Christians believe that when people die they go to heaven if they are good, so even though there is suffering in this life, it will be better in the afterlife. This means the problem of evil isn't really a problem because heaven makes up for it.

I think that evil does exist but that doesn't mean God doesn't exist. Christians can still believe in God even though bad things happen. The problem of evil is a difficult question but it doesn't prove anything for definite.

Mark: 4/12

Examiner commentary: This answer reaches low Level 2. It presents a point of view with some reasoning and shows basic understanding of the question. However, there are significant weaknesses. The explanation of dualism (God vs. the devil fighting) is a common misconception – mainstream Christianity teaches that God is omnipotent and the devil is not an equal opposing force. The free will argument is mentioned but underdeveloped. References to Christian teaching are minimal and simplistic. The reasoning lacks depth and logical development. To improve, the candidate needs to develop arguments more fully, use more specific Christian teachings (with examples or quotations), avoid misconceptions, and provide more sustained chains of reasoning leading to a properly justified conclusion.

Question 5 — Sample Answers

Grade 9 (top of Higher) answer

There are compelling arguments on both sides of this debate. Those who believe Christians should focus more on this life than the afterlife can point to Jesus' earthly ministry as their primary example. Jesus spent His time healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and defending the marginalized. The Parable of the Sheep and Goats in Matthew 25 teaches that judgement will be based specifically on how people treated others in this life – "whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." This suggests that practical acts of compassion in the present are central to Christian faith, not just believing correct doctrines about the afterlife.

Furthermore, Jesus taught that "the kingdom of God is among you," which many interpret as meaning that God's kingdom should be established here and now through justice, peace and love, not just awaited as a future heavenly realm. Liberation theology, developed by Christians in Latin America, emphasizes this "preferential option for the poor," arguing that Christians must work to end poverty, oppression and injustice in this world. Focusing excessively on "pie in the sky when you die" can become an excuse to ignore suffering and inequality in the present. Jesus commanded His followers to "love your neighbour as yourself," which requires active engagement with this-worldly concerns.

Additionally, Christians are called to be stewards of God's creation, caring for the environment and natural world. This responsibility is firmly rooted in present earthly life. The Lord's Prayer itself asks that God's will be done "on earth as it is in heaven," suggesting that bringing heaven's values to earth matters greatly.

However, there are equally strong arguments that Christians must maintain focus on eternal life. Belief in the resurrection is absolutely central to Christian faith – as Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15, "if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith." The promise of eternal life gives Christianity its distinctive hope and power. Jesus Himself said, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth... but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven," directly teaching that eternal matters should take priority over temporary earthly concerns.

The early Christians were sustained through persecution by their faith in resurrection and eternal life. Martyrs like Stephen faced death courageously because they believed in something beyond this life. Paul expressed this perspective clearly: "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." This attitude enabled Christians to endure suffering with hope. Moreover, Jesus warned, "What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?" This suggests that securing one's eternal destiny is more important than any earthly achievement.

The Christian doctrine of eschatology – the study of end times – emphasizes Christ's promised return and the establishment of a new heaven and new earth. This future hope shapes Christian identity and ethics. Without belief in eternal life, death would have the final word, and injustices that go unpunished in this life would never be resolved.

In conclusion, I believe Christians should maintain a balanced perspective that recognizes the importance of both. The two are not truly separable – Jesus taught that how we live in this life directly affects our eternal destiny. The belief in eternal life should motivate Christians to live righteously and lovingly in this life, while concern for this world should not obscure the ultimate hope of resurrection. As Jesus demonstrated, caring for people's earthly needs (feeding, healing) went hand-in-hand with teaching about the kingdom of God. A Christianity focused solely on heaven becomes irrelevant to human suffering, but a Christianity that ignores eternal life loses its transcendent hope and becomes merely a social programme. The most authentic Christian approach integrates both dimensions, working for justice now while maintaining faith in God's eternal promises.

Mark: 13/13

Examiner commentary: This outstanding response demonstrates all the hallmarks of Level 4 achievement at the highest level. It presents sophisticated, well-developed arguments on both sides with excellent balance. The candidate uses extensive and accurate Christian teaching throughout – biblical quotations (Matthew 25, 1 Corinthians 15, the Lord's Prayer), theological concepts (stewardship, eschatology, Liberation theology), and specific examples (martyrdom). The reasoning is sustained and logical, with clear chains of argument leading to a nuanced, justified conclusion that synthesizes both positions. The response shows thorough understanding of the complexity of the issue and excellent use of specialist vocabulary. This is a model answer that would achieve full marks.

Grade 6 (solid pass) answer

Some Christians think they should focus more on this life than the afterlife. Jesus spent his time on earth helping people who were suffering. He healed sick people, fed hungry crowds, and told his followers to care for the poor. The Parable of the Sheep and Goats shows that people will be judged on whether they helped others in this life – feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, welcoming strangers and visiting prisoners. This shows that what we do in this life is very important.

If Christians only focus on getting to heaven, they might ignore problems in the world like poverty and injustice. Jesus told his followers to "love your neighbour as yourself," which means caring about people now, not just thinking about the afterlife. Christians should work to make the world better and help people who are suffering, rather than just waiting to go to heaven when they die.

Christians also have a responsibility to look after God's creation. This means caring for the environment and not polluting the earth. This is a this-worldly responsibility that Christians should take seriously.

However, other Christians believe the afterlife is more important. Belief in eternal life is central to Christianity. Jesus was resurrected from the dead, and Christians believe they will be resurrected too. Jesus said "Do not store up treasures on earth... but store up treasures in heaven." This means that things in heaven are more important than things on earth.

The early Christians were persecuted and killed for their faith, but they stayed strong because they believed in heaven. If they had only cared about this life, they would have given up their faith to save themselves. But because they believed in eternal life, they were willing to die as martyrs.

Also, this life is temporary but the afterlife is forever. So it makes sense to focus more on what lasts forever rather than what only lasts for a short time. Paul said "to live is Christ and to die is gain," showing that death isn't the end and that eternal life is something to look forward to.

In conclusion, I think Christians need to care about both this life and the next. They should help people and make the world better, but they should also remember that there is life after death. The belief in heaven can actually motivate Christians to be good people in this life, so focusing on the afterlife doesn't mean ignoring this life. Both are important parts of Christian faith.

Mark: 8/13

Examiner commentary: This is a secure Level 3 response showing good understanding. The candidate presents both sides with clear reasoning and relevant Christian teaching (the Parable of the Sheep and Goats, stewardship, resurrection, biblical references). The structure is logical and a personal conclusion is reached. However, to move into Level 4, the response needs more depth and development. The arguments are somewhat surface-level and could be expanded with more detailed explanation. More sophisticated theological concepts could be introduced (e.g., eschatology, Liberation theology, soul-making). The biblical quotations and references are present but could be better integrated and explained. The conclusion is reasonable but could more clearly evaluate which arguments are stronger and why.

Grade 3 (near miss) answer

Christians should focus on this life because Jesus helped people when he was alive. He did miracles and was kind to people. So Christians should copy Jesus and help people too. If Christians only think about heaven they won't care about poor people or problems in the world.

But some Christians think the afterlife is more important because that is where you go after you die. Heaven is perfect and there is no pain or suffering there, so it is better than earth. Christians want to go to heaven when they die so they need to focus on that.

Jesus died on the cross so that people could go to heaven. This shows that heaven is very important. If people don't believe in Jesus they will go to hell instead of heaven, so they need to focus on the afterlife to make sure they go to the right place.

Christians believe in life after death. When you die your soul leaves your body and goes to heaven if you have been good. This is better than just living on earth and then dying and that's it. So Christians should think about what happens after death.

But also Christians should be good people in this life and follow the Ten Commandments. They should go to church and pray and read the Bible. This will help them be good Christians and then they can go to heaven.

I think Christians should focus on both this life and the afterlife. They should be good people now but also think about heaven. Both are important for Christians.

Mark: 4/13

Examiner commentary: This answer achieves low Level 2. It recognizes different points of view and provides some basic reasons for each position, with minimal reference to Christian teaching. However, the response suffers from several significant weaknesses. The arguments are underdeveloped and simplistic – there's no detailed explanation of why helping people matters or how belief in afterlife functions in Christian theology. The understanding of salvation is oversimplified ("good people go to heaven"), missing the Christian teaching about grace and faith. References to Christian teaching are minimal and not well explained. To improve, the candidate needs to develop each point with more detail and explanation, include specific Christian teachings with examples, avoid oversimplifications, and create stronger logical chains of reasoning that properly evaluate the arguments before reaching a justified conclusion.