What you'll learn
The core teachings of the Buddha as specified by AQA.
Key beliefs
- The life of the Buddha and his Enlightenment.
- The Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path (the Middle Way).
- The Three Marks of Existence: dukkha (suffering), anicca (impermanence), anatta (no fixed self).
- Karma, samsara and nibbana (the goal).
- The Three Refuges (Buddha, Dhamma, Sangha) and differences between Theravada and Mahayana.
Exam tips
- Learn the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path in order.
- Explain how the beliefs shape ethical living.
Common mistakes
- Treating the Buddha as a god.
- Misexplaining anatta as meaning nothing exists.