Mark Scheme

Section A — Structured Questions

Question 1

(a) State the meaning of the term Tawhid. (2 marks)

Award 2 marks for a clear and accurate definition:

• The oneness/unity of Allah/God (1 mark)
• The belief that Allah is one and indivisible/has no partners (1 mark)

Accept: "monotheism in Islam"; "belief in one God" Accept: any two relevant points about the concept

(b) Describe two ways Muslims show respect for the Qur'an. (4 marks)

Award 2 marks per way described (up to maximum of 4 marks):

• Performing wudu (ritual washing) before touching it (1 mark) to ensure they are clean and in a state of purity (1 mark)
• Placing it on a high shelf/not on the floor (1 mark) to show it is the most important book/word of Allah (1 mark)
• Wrapping it in clean cloth (1 mark) to protect it from damage/keep it pure (1 mark)
• Using a rehl (stand) when reading (1 mark) to prevent it touching lower surfaces (1 mark)
• Learning to recite it in Arabic (1 mark) as this is the original language of revelation (1 mark)
• Not eating or drinking while reading it (1 mark) to show full concentration and respect (1 mark)

Award 1 mark for each way identified and 1 mark for development.

(c) Explain why the Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr) is important for Muslims. (5 marks)

Candidates could include some of the following:

• It is the night when the Qur'an was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ through Angel Jibril
• Muslims believe it is "better than a thousand months" (Surah 97)
• It commemorates the beginning of revelation/prophethood
• Muslims spend the night in prayer and seeking forgiveness
• It falls in the last ten nights of Ramadan (often the 27th night)
• Angels descend during this night
• Prayers and good deeds are especially valuable/rewarded on this night
• It reminds Muslims of the importance of the Qur'an in their lives
• Shows Allah's mercy in revealing guidance to humanity

Level 3 (5 marks): A thorough explanation showing good understanding of why the Night of Power is important. Two or more reasons given with clear development using appropriate religious terminology.

Level 2 (3-4 marks): A reasonable explanation showing some understanding. One or two reasons given with some development or several reasons with limited development.

Level 1 (1-2 marks): A limited explanation with basic understanding. One or two reasons stated with little or no development.

(0 marks): Nothing worthy of credit.

Question 2

(a) Give two of the Five Pillars of Islam. (2 marks)

Award 1 mark for each pillar correctly identified (up to 2 marks):

• Shahadah (declaration of faith)
• Salah (prayer)
• Zakah (almsgiving/charity)
• Sawm (fasting during Ramadan)
• Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah)

Accept Arabic or English terms.

(b) Describe what happens during Salah. (4 marks)

Award up to 4 marks for describing what happens:

• Muslims face the qiblah/Makkah (1 mark)
• They perform rak'ahs (cycles of prayer movements) (1 mark)
• They recite verses from the Qur'an including Surah al-Fatihah (1 mark)
• They perform physical actions including standing, bowing (ruku), and prostrating (sujud) (1 mark)
• They end with taslim (saying "As-salamu alaykum") (1 mark)
• They pray at five set times each day (1 mark)
• Men often pray at the mosque, women may pray at home (1 mark)
• Prayers are performed in Arabic (1 mark)

Award up to 4 marks for any four relevant points.

(c) Explain why Zakah is important in Islam. (5 marks)

Candidates could include some of the following:

• It is one of the Five Pillars, therefore a religious duty/fard
• It purifies wealth and removes greed/materialism
• It helps those in need/supports the poor and vulnerable
• It creates a fair and just society
• It reminds Muslims that wealth belongs to Allah
• It develops generosity and compassion
• The Qur'an commands it: "Establish prayer and give zakah" (Surah 2:43)
• It demonstrates submission to Allah's will
• It helps reduce the gap between rich and poor
• It is calculated as 2.5% of savings held for one year
• It strengthens the ummah (community)

Level 3 (5 marks): A thorough explanation showing good understanding of the importance of Zakah. Two or more reasons given with clear development using appropriate religious terminology.

Level 2 (3-4 marks): A reasonable explanation showing some understanding. One or two reasons given with some development or several reasons with limited development.

Level 1 (1-2 marks): A limited explanation with basic understanding. One or two reasons stated with little or no development.

(0 marks): Nothing worthy of credit.

Question 3

(a) State what Muslims believe about the nature of Allah. (2 marks)

Award 1 mark for each belief stated (up to 2 marks):

• Allah is one/unique (Tawhid)
• Allah is eternal/everlasting
• Allah is merciful/compassionate (Ar-Rahman, Ar-Rahim)
• Allah is omnipotent/all-powerful
• Allah is omniscient/all-knowing
• Allah is transcendent/beyond human understanding
• Allah is immanent/close to creation
• Allah is the creator and sustainer
• Allah has 99 names describing His attributes
• Allah is just/fair

Accept any two relevant beliefs.

(b) Describe two ways Muslims show submission to Allah in their daily lives. (4 marks)

Award 2 marks per way described (up to maximum of 4 marks):

• Performing Salah five times daily (1 mark) at the prescribed times facing Makkah (1 mark)
• Following halal dietary laws (1 mark) by avoiding pork and alcohol/eating only permitted foods (1 mark)
• Using the phrase "In sha' Allah" (if Allah wills) (1 mark) to acknowledge Allah's control over the future (1 mark)
• Studying the Qur'an regularly (1 mark) to learn and follow Allah's commands (1 mark)
• Giving Zakah or Sadaqah (charity) (1 mark) to obey Allah's command to help others (1 mark)
• Wearing modest clothing (hijab) (1 mark) to obey Allah's teachings on modesty (1 mark)

Award 1 mark for each way identified and 1 mark for development.

(c) Explain why belief in predestination (Al-Qadr) is important for Muslims. (5 marks)

Candidates could include some of the following:

• It is one of the six articles of faith in Sunni Islam
• It teaches that Allah knows everything that will happen
• It helps Muslims accept difficult situations/suffering with patience
• It gives comfort that everything happens according to Allah's plan
• It does not remove human free will or responsibility
• Muslims believe they must still make choices and be accountable
• The Qur'an teaches "No disaster strikes except by permission of Allah" (Surah 64:11)
• It encourages trust (tawakkul) in Allah
• It prevents arrogance when things go well
• It helps Muslims remain humble
• It reinforces belief in Divine justice and wisdom

Level 3 (5 marks): A thorough explanation showing good understanding of the importance of belief in predestination. Two or more reasons given with clear development using appropriate religious terminology.

Level 2 (3-4 marks): A reasonable explanation showing some understanding. One or two reasons given with some development or several reasons with limited development.

Level 1 (1-2 marks): A limited explanation with basic understanding. One or two reasons stated with little or no development.

(0 marks): Nothing worthy of credit.

Question 4

(a) Give two examples of Sunnah. (2 marks)

Award 1 mark for each example (up to 2 marks):

• The way Prophet Muhammad ﷺ prayed
• His treatment of others/good manners
• His fasting practices
• His charitable acts
• His family life/how he treated his wives
• His personal hygiene practices
• His business dealings/honesty in trade
• His forgiveness of enemies
• His recitation of the Qur'an

Accept any two valid examples of the Prophet's example/practice.

(b) Describe what Muslims believe about the role of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. (4 marks)

Award up to 4 marks for describing beliefs about his role:

• He was the final/seal of the prophets (1 mark)
• He received the final revelation from Allah (the Qur'an) (1 mark)
• He is a perfect example/uswa hasana for Muslims to follow (1 mark)
• He delivered Allah's message to humanity (1 mark)
• He established the first Muslim community/ummah (1 mark)
• He is a mercy to all creation (1 mark)
• He clarified and explained the Qur'an (1 mark)
• He was a prophet and messenger/rasul (1 mark)

Award up to 4 marks for any four relevant points.

(c) Explain why the Hijrah is significant for Muslims. (5 marks)

Candidates could include some of the following:

• It marks the migration from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE
• It marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar
• It represents sacrifice for faith/leaving behind home and possessions
• It led to the establishment of the first Muslim community
• It shows trust in Allah during difficult times
• It demonstrates the persecution Muslims faced in Makkah
• It allowed Islam to grow and develop freely
• It shows the importance of brotherhood/ummah (Ansar welcomed Muhajirun)
• The Constitution of Madinah was established after this
• It is a turning point in Islamic history

Level 3 (5 marks): A thorough explanation showing good understanding of the significance of the Hijrah. Two or more reasons given with clear development using appropriate religious terminology.

Level 2 (3-4 marks): A reasonable explanation showing some understanding. One or two reasons given with some development or several reasons with limited development.

Level 1 (1-2 marks): A limited explanation with basic understanding. One or two reasons stated with little or no development.

(0 marks): Nothing worthy of credit.

Section B — Extended Response

Question 5

"The most important pillar of Islam is Salah (prayer)." Evaluate this statement. (15 marks)

Indicative content:

Arguments supporting the statement:

• Salah is performed five times daily, showing it structures the entire day
• It is the first thing Muslims will be judged on in the afterlife
• It is a direct connection between the individual and Allah
• Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said "Prayer is the pillar of religion"
• It was made obligatory during Mi'raj (Night Journey), showing its special status
• It is the only pillar repeated multiple times daily
• It includes recitation of Qur'an and remembrance of Allah
• It develops discipline, mindfulness and constant awareness of Allah

Arguments against the statement/for other pillars:

• Shahadah is the foundation – without it, other pillars have no meaning
• Shahadah must be declared first to become Muslim
• Zakah has social benefits, helping the poor and creating justice
• Sawm during Ramadan brings the whole community together annually
• Hajj is the ultimate act of devotion if one is able to perform it
• All Five Pillars are equally important as they work together
• Different pillars may be more important for different people at different times
• The Qur'an presents all pillars as obligatory

Mark scheme:

AO1 Knowledge and Understanding (6 marks):

Level 3 (5-6 marks): Excellent knowledge and understanding of Islamic teaching on the Five Pillars and Salah specifically. Uses a range of religious terminology accurately (fard, ummah, Mi'raj, etc.). Clear reference to sources of authority.

Level 2 (3-4 marks): Good knowledge and understanding with some use of religious terminology. Some reference to Islamic teaching but may lack detail or depth.

Level 1 (1-2 marks): Limited knowledge and understanding. Basic religious terminology. Limited or no reference to sources of authority.

(0 marks): Nothing worthy of credit.

AO2 Analysis and Evaluation (6 marks):

Level 3 (5-6 marks): Excellent evaluation of the statement with detailed consideration of different points of view. Reaches a clear, justified conclusion based on the arguments presented. Shows sophisticated understanding of why Muslims might have different views.

Level 2 (3-4 marks): Good evaluation with consideration of different viewpoints. Some justification for conclusion, though it may be more asserted than argued.

Level 1 (1-2 marks): Limited evaluation. May present one view only or gives different views without engaging with them. Conclusion, if present, is not supported.

(0 marks): Nothing worthy of credit.

Quality of Written Communication (3 marks):

3 marks: Spelling, punctuation and grammar are consistently accurate. Religious terminology is used correctly throughout. Writing is fluent and well-structured with clear paragraphs.

2 marks: Spelling, punctuation and grammar are generally accurate with few errors. Most religious terminology is used correctly. Writing is generally clear and organised.

1 mark: Some errors in spelling, punctuation and grammar that may occasionally obscure meaning. Limited or inconsistent use of religious terminology. Writing lacks clear structure.

(0 marks): Persistent errors that obscure meaning. Little or no religious terminology. Poor organisation.

Question 6

"Greater Jihad is more important than Lesser Jihad for Muslims today." Discuss this statement. (7 marks)

Indicative content:

Arguments supporting the statement:

• Greater Jihad is the internal struggle against sin and temptation
• Prophet Muhammad ﷺ described it as the "greater struggle"
• It is a daily, lifelong effort for all Muslims
• Modern society presents many moral challenges requiring Greater Jihad
• It focuses on self-improvement and spiritual development
• It helps Muslims resist materialism, greed, pride, etc.
• It is non-violent and about personal discipline
• It includes acts of worship, charity, and good character

Arguments against the statement/for Lesser Jihad:

• Lesser Jihad (physical struggle) may be necessary to defend Islam and Muslim communities
• Some Muslims face persecution requiring physical defence
• Both forms are valid and important in Islamic teaching
• Lesser Jihad can include non-violent activism and standing up for justice
• Protecting the faith and community is a religious duty
• Historical importance of Lesser Jihad in establishing and defending Muslim lands
• Modern challenges like Islamophobia may require outward struggle

Different perspectives:

• Most Muslims today emphasise Greater Jihad as primary
• Context matters – in times of peace vs. persecution
• Both are interconnected – inner strength supports outer action

Mark scheme:

AO1 Knowledge and Understanding (3 marks):

Level 3 (3 marks): Clear knowledge and understanding of both Greater and Lesser Jihad with accurate use of terminology.

Level 2 (2 marks): Some knowledge and understanding shown with partial use of terminology.

Level 1 (1 mark): Limited knowledge with minimal use of terminology.

(0 marks): Nothing worthy of credit.

AO2 Analysis and Evaluation (4 marks):

Level 3 (4 marks): Thorough discussion with consideration of more than one point of view. Clear engagement with the statement showing why Muslims might hold different positions.

Level 2 (2-3 marks): Reasonable discussion showing some consideration of different viewpoints, though may be unbalanced or lack full development.

Level 1 (1 mark): Limited discussion, possibly presenting only one viewpoint or listing views without engagement.

(0 marks): Nothing worthy of credit.

Sample Answers with Examiner Commentary

Question 5 — Sample Answers

Grade 9 answer

Many Muslims would agree that Salah is the most important pillar because it is performed five times every day, which shows how it structures the entire life of a Muslim. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said that prayer is "the pillar of religion" and that it will be the first thing Muslims are questioned about on the Day of Judgement. This demonstrates its supreme importance in Islam. Furthermore, Salah was made obligatory during the Mi'raj (Night Journey) when the Prophet ﷺ ascended to heaven and received this command directly from Allah, unlike other pillars which were revealed through the angel Jibril. This special status suggests Salah has unique significance.

Salah also creates a direct, personal connection between the Muslim and Allah five times daily, providing constant spiritual nourishment and remembrance of God's presence. Through Salah, Muslims recite from the Qur'an, make du'a (supplication), and express complete submission through prostration, which is the ultimate physical demonstration of humility before Allah. The discipline of stopping daily activities at set times to pray develops taqwa (God-consciousness) and helps Muslims resist temptation.

However, other Muslims might argue that the Shahadah is more important because it is the foundation of faith. Without declaring "There is no god but Allah and Muhammad is His messenger," a person is not Muslim and the other pillars have no meaning. The Shahadah must be recited to convert to Islam, showing it is primary. It also expresses Tawhid, the absolutely central Islamic belief in the oneness of Allah.

Additionally, Zakah could be considered equally or more important because of its social justice dimension. While Salah primarily benefits the individual's spiritual state, Zakah directly helps the poor and vulnerable, creating a fairer society. The Qur'an frequently links prayer and Zakah together – "Establish prayer and give Zakah" (Surah 2:43) – suggesting they are equally important. Some scholars argue that Zakah demonstrates the practical outworking of faith, proving that belief leads to compassionate action.

Hajj could also be seen as the ultimate act of devotion, as it requires significant sacrifice of time, money and comfort, bringing Muslims from around the world together in the largest demonstration of ummah (community). The Prophet ﷺ called Hajj one of the best deeds.

In conclusion, while Salah has strong claims to being most important due to its frequency, its establishment during Mi'raj, and its role in maintaining constant connection with Allah, Islamic teaching emphasises that all Five Pillars work together as an integrated system. The Shahadah provides the foundation of belief, Salah maintains the spiritual connection, Zakah ensures social responsibility, Sawm develops self-discipline, and Hajj represents ultimate devotion. Therefore, whilst Salah may have particular significance due to its daily practice and prophetic statements about its importance, it is most accurate to say that all pillars are essential and no single pillar can be isolated as independently "most important" – they are interdependent parts of Islamic practice. However, if one had to choose, Salah's daily repetition and direct connection to Allah give it a strong claim to being the most continuously important pillar in a Muslim's daily life.

Mark: 15/15

Examiner commentary: This is an excellent response demonstrating sophisticated understanding of Islamic teaching. The candidate presents a thoroughly developed argument supporting the statement with precise references to prophetic tradition, the Mi'raj, and theological concepts. The counter-arguments are equally well-developed, showing genuine engagement with alternative perspectives rather than superficial disagreement. Religious terminology (taqwa, ummah, Tawhid, du'a) is used accurately throughout. The conclusion is nuanced, recognising both the strength of arguments for Salah while acknowledging the integrated nature of the Five Pillars. This achieves full marks in AO1 (6/6) for excellent knowledge, AO2 (6/6) for sophisticated evaluation and justified conclusion, and SPaG (3/3) for fluent, accurate writing.

Grade 6 answer

Salah could be seen as the most important pillar of Islam because Muslims have to do it five times every day. This shows how important it is in their lives. Prayer helps Muslims remember Allah throughout the day and keeps them close to God. The Prophet Muhammad said that prayer is very important and Muslims will be asked about it first after they die. This suggests it is the most important duty.

When Muslims pray, they have to face Makkah and perform rak'ahs which include standing, bowing and prostrating. This shows submission to Allah. Prayer includes reciting from the Qur'an and this helps Muslims remember Allah's words. It also brings discipline because Muslims have to pray at set times even if they are busy.

However, some Muslims might think the Shahadah is more important because it is the declaration of faith. You have to say the Shahadah to become a Muslim, so without it you cannot be Muslim at all. This makes it the foundation that everything else is built on. The Shahadah states that there is only one God and Muhammad is his messenger, which is the most basic belief.

Zakah is also important because it helps poor people. Muslims give 2.5% of their wealth to charity and this helps create a fairer society. Some people might think this is more important than prayer because it actually helps other people not just yourself. The Qur'an says to do both prayer and Zakah so they are both important.

In conclusion, I think Salah is very important because it is done every day and keeps Muslims connected to Allah. But the Shahadah is the foundation and without it the other pillars don't make sense. So while Salah is extremely important in daily life, all the pillars work together and are all necessary for Muslims.

Mark: 10/15 (AO1: 4/6, AO2: 4/6, SPaG: 2/3)

Examiner commentary: This is a solid mid-level response showing good understanding of Islamic teaching. The candidate demonstrates knowledge of Salah and other pillars with some supporting detail (five daily prayers, facing Makkah, prostration, Zakah at 2.5%). However, the response lacks the depth and precision of higher-level answers – for example, the reference to prophetic tradition is vague rather than specific, and there is no mention of Mi'raj or advanced concepts like taqwa. The evaluation considers different viewpoints adequately but the conclusion somewhat contradicts itself. Religious terminology is generally used correctly but is limited in range. Writing is clear with only minor errors, but paragraph structure could be improved.

Grade 3 answer

I think Salah is the most important pillar because Muslims pray five times a day. This is more than any other pillar so it must be the most important one. Prayer helps Muslims talk to God and ask for things they need. It also reminds them about their religion.

Muslims have to pray facing the Mecca and they have to wash first. They do this to show respect to Allah. If they don't pray they will be punished because it is a rule in Islam. The prayers are at different times like morning, afternoon and evening. This takes up a lot of time which shows it is important.

But other people might think that Hajj is more important because you have to go to Mecca which is very special. Lots of Muslims go there every year and it is a big journey. Or Zakah could be important because giving money to poor people is a good thing to do and it helps them.

The Shahadah is also important because it is the first pillar. Muslims have to say it when they become Muslim. It is about believing in Allah and Muhammad.

In conclusion, all the pillars are important but Salah is probably the most important because you do it every day and it takes the most time. Prayer is how Muslims worship Allah.

Mark: 5/15 (AO1: 2/6, AO2: 2/6, SPaG: 1/3)

Examiner commentary: This response demonstrates limited understanding of Islamic teaching. While the candidate identifies Salah as being performed five times daily, the explanation shows common GCSE-level misconceptions: prayer is described primarily as "asking for things" rather than worship and submission; the importance is equated simply with frequency and time spent rather than theological significance; there is an immature suggestion that Muslims pray only to avoid punishment rather than from devotion. The candidate mentions other pillars but without genuine engagement or development. References are vague ("Mecca" rather than Makkah, no specific terminology or sources). The conclusion is asserted rather than justified. To improve, the candidate needs to develop points with specific references, use accurate religious terminology, and demonstrate understanding of theological concepts rather than purely descriptive statements.

Question 6 — Sample Answers

Grade 9 answer

Most Muslims today would agree that Greater Jihad is more important than Lesser Jihad, particularly in contemporary contexts. Greater Jihad refers to the internal, spiritual struggle against sin, temptation and one's own weaknesses, whilst Lesser Jihad refers to physical struggle, historically interpreted as defending Islam and the Muslim community. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, returning from battle, famously stated that the Muslims were returning from the "lesser jihad" to the "greater jihad" – the struggle against the self (nafs). This prophetic statement establishes a clear hierarchy between the two concepts.

Greater Jihad is relevant to every Muslim, every day. Modern society presents constant challenges to Islamic values: materialism, greed, selfishness, and various temptations. The daily effort to pray five times, resist gossip, control anger, be honest in business dealings, and maintain good character all constitute Greater Jihad. This internal struggle is continuous and lifelong, whereas Lesser Jihad is only required in specific circumstances of defence. Furthermore, Greater Jihad is fundamentally about self-improvement and spiritual development, which aligns with Islam's emphasis on personal accountability before Allah.

However, Lesser Jihad remains important in Islamic teaching and cannot be dismissed. The Qur'an permits defensive warfare: "Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you, but do not transgress" (Surah 2:190). In contexts where Muslims face persecution or oppression, physical defence of the faith and community becomes a religious duty. Additionally, Lesser Jihad should not be understood purely as military conflict – it includes struggling for justice, speaking truth to power, and activism against oppression. In this broader sense, Lesser Jihad remains highly relevant today in combating Islamophobia, social injustice and human rights violations.

Some Muslims living under persecution might argue that Lesser Jihad is more immediately important for their survival and the survival of their communities. The context matters significantly – in peaceful societies, Greater Jihad naturally takes precedence, but in conflict zones, the priorities may differ.

In conclusion, for the vast majority of Muslims today living in peaceful circumstances, Greater Jihad is clearly more important as it represents the daily, internal spiritual struggle that every believer must undertake throughout their lives. The prophetic tradition explicitly emphasises this, and Greater Jihad is universally applicable regardless of circumstances. However, Lesser Jihad, properly understood as both physical defence when necessary and broader struggles for justice, retains importance in Islamic teaching and cannot be completely separated from Greater Jihad, as inner spiritual strength often supports outer action for justice. The predominant view in contemporary Islam emphasises Greater Jihad as the primary form of jihad for most Muslims today.

Mark: 7/7 (AO1: 3/3, AO2: 4/4)

Examiner commentary: This is an excellent response showing sophisticated understanding of both concepts. The candidate accurately defines both Greater and Lesser Jihad and uses specific prophetic tradition to support arguments. The discussion genuinely engages with different perspectives, recognising that context matters and that Lesser Jihad has both historical military and contemporary justice-related dimensions. The conclusion is nuanced and well-justified, acknowledging the predominant emphasis on Greater Jihad while respecting the continued relevance of Lesser Jihad. Religious terminology is used precisely throughout (nafs, appropriate Qur'anic reference). This achieves full marks.

Grade 6 answer

Greater Jihad is probably more important for Muslims today because it is about the personal struggle against sin and temptation. The Prophet Muhammad said that Greater Jihad was more important than Lesser Jihad when he came back from a battle. Greater Jihad is the struggle to be a good Muslim and resist doing wrong things. This is something every Muslim has to do every day.

In modern society, Muslims face many challenges like peer pressure, temptation to drink alcohol or take drugs, and pressure to not follow Islamic teachings. Greater Jihad helps Muslims stay strong in their faith. It includes trying to pray regularly, being kind to others, and controlling your temper. This is a constant battle and affects everyday life.

Lesser Jihad is about physical fighting to defend Islam. In the past this was more common when Muslim lands were being attacked. The Qur'an allows Muslims to fight in self-defence but they should not be aggressive. Today, Lesser Jihad is less common because most Muslims live in peaceful countries. However, some Muslims in war zones might still need to defend themselves.

Some people might argue that Lesser Jihad is still important because Muslims face persecution in some parts of the world. Also, Lesser Jihad can mean struggling for justice and speaking out against wrong, not just physical fighting. This is still relevant today.

Overall, I think Greater Jihad is more important for most Muslims today because it is about daily spiritual struggle that everyone faces. Lesser Jihad is only needed in certain situations. The Prophet's words show that the internal struggle is the greater challenge.

Mark: 5/7 (AO1: 2/3, AO2: 3/4)

Examiner commentary: This is a reasonable response showing good understanding of the basic distinction between Greater and Lesser Jihad. The candidate correctly references prophetic tradition and provides some relevant examples of Greater Jihad in daily life. Different viewpoints are considered, though the development is somewhat limited. The response could be strengthened with more specific references (e.g., Qur'anic verses, the Arabic term nafs), greater depth in explaining why Greater Jihad is spiritually challenging, and more sophisticated engagement with contexts where Lesser Jihad might be prioritised. The conclusion is appropriate but could be more nuanced. Overall, a solid mid-range response.

Grade 3 answer

Greater Jihad is more important than Lesser Jihad because it is peaceful. Greater Jihad is about trying hard to be good and follow Islam. Muslims have to struggle against bad things and try to be better people. This is important because everyone should try to be good.

Lesser Jihad is about fighting and war. It is when Muslims fight against enemies who attack them. This was important in the past but today most Muslims don't fight in wars so it is not as important. Fighting is wrong anyway so Greater Jihad is better because it is peaceful.

Greater Jihad includes things like praying and fasting and being nice to people. Muslims do this all the time so it affects their daily life more. Lesser Jihad is only sometimes needed.

Some people might think Lesser Jihad is important but I think Greater Jihad is more important because peace is better than fighting and everyone has to do Greater Jihad.

Mark: 3/7 (AO1: 1/3, AO2: 2/4)

Examiner commentary: This response shows limited understanding of both concepts. While the candidate correctly identifies that Greater Jihad relates to personal struggle, the explanation is superficial and reflects a common misconception that Lesser Jihad is simply "wrong" or inappropriate, rather than understanding its role as legitimate self-defence in Islamic teaching. The response lacks specific references to Islamic sources or teachings. The discussion of different viewpoints is minimal and undeveloped, merely acknowledging that "some people might think" differently without genuine engagement. To improve, the candidate should develop understanding of Islamic concepts of jihad with specific references (prophetic traditions, Qur'anic verses), avoid value judgements inconsistent with Islamic teaching (such as dismissing all forms of Lesser Jihad as "wrong"), and provide detailed examples of both concepts with proper religious terminology.