2024_AQA-GCSE Religious Studies A – Paper 1:
Sikhism
(Merged Question Paper and Marking Scheme)
Thursday 9 May 2024
Please write clearly in block capitals.
Centre number
Candidate number
Surname
Forename(s)
Candidate signature
I declare this is my own work.
GCSE
RELIGIOUS STUDIES A
Paper 1 Sikhism
Thursday 9 May 2024 Morning Time allowed: 1 hour 45 minutes
Materials
For Examiner’s Use
Before you open this book, you must ensure you also have:
• the Question Paper/Answer Book for the other religion option Question Mark
you are entered for (Buddhism, Catholic Christianity, Christianity, Hinduism,
Islam or Judaism). 01.1
You will have 1 hour 45 minutes to complete both Question Paper/Answer Books. 01.2
Instructions 01.3
• Use black ink or black ball-point pen. 01.4
• Fill in the boxes at the top of this page and on your other book.
• Answer all questions. 01.5
• If you need extra space for your answer(s), use the lined pages at the end of 02.1
this book. Write the question number against your answer(s). 02.2
• Do all rough work in this book. Cross through any work you do not want to
be marked. 02.3
• You must answer the questions in the spaces provided. Do not write outside the 02.4
box around each page or on blank pages. 02.5
Information
TOTAL
• The maximum mark for this paper is 51.
• The marks for the questions are shown in brackets.
• Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar (SPaG) will be assessed in the 12-mark
question in the Beliefs section.
Advice
You are advised to spend 50 minutes on this religion option and 50 minutes on your other religion option.
,GCSE Religious Studies A: Paper 1 - Sikhism Summary
The GCSE Religious Studies A: Paper 1 - Sikhism, scheduled for May 2024, will assess students’
understanding of the Sikh faith, its core beliefs, practices, and how these influence the lives of its
followers. The exam will cover essential teachings, key figures, scriptures, and Sikh practices, as well as
the significance of Sikhism in contemporary society. Students will need to demonstrate a solid
understanding of Sikh beliefs and how they shape the personal, social, and religious life of Sikhs.
Key Areas Covered:
1. Beliefs in Sikhism
The Oneness of God (Waheguru): Sikhism teaches that there is only one God, Waheguru, who is
formless, eternal, and beyond human comprehension. Students will need to understand the
significance of God's oneness and the belief that God is both transcendent and immanent, present
in all of creation.
Mool Mantar: The opening verse of the Guru Granth Sahib, which outlines key attributes of God,
including omnipresence, omnipotence, and timelessness. Students should understand its meaning
and significance in Sikh theology.
The Nature of Humanity: Sikhs believe that all humans are equal and that life should be lived
with humility, service to others, and devotion to God. The concept of human life as a gift from
God, with a purpose to attain spiritual liberation (Mukti) through devotion, prayer, and righteous
living, will be key.
The Five Beliefs (The Five Ks): The five articles of faith (Kesh, Kara, Kanga, Kachera, and
Kirpan) that every Sikh man or woman may wear, each symbolizing a different aspect of their
commitment to Sikh values and service to humanity.
Reincarnation and Karma: Sikhs believe in the cycle of reincarnation (samsara), where the soul
is reborn until it reaches liberation (Mukti). The actions (karma) of a person influence their future
lives, and good deeds lead to liberation.
Guru Nanak and the Gurus: The teachings of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, and the
subsequent nine Gurus. The significance of the Gurus' teachings, their role in spreading the faith,
and their emphasis on equality, justice, and devotion to God.
The Guru Granth Sahib: The central scripture of Sikhism, regarded as the eternal Guru. It is a
compilation of hymns (Shabads) and teachings from various Sikh Gurus, as well as Hindu and
Muslim saints. Understanding the spiritual significance and the role of the Guru Granth Sahib in
Sikh worship will be essential.
The Sikh Concept of the Afterlife: Sikhism teaches that after death, the soul is judged based on
its actions in life, and those who have lived a righteous life are united with Waheguru, while those
who have lived selfishly will continue the cycle of rebirth.
2. Practices in Sikhism
The Gurdwara: The Sikh place of worship, where Sikhs come together for prayers, hymns, and
to learn from the Guru Granth Sahib. Students should understand the role of the Gurdwara in the
community, as well as the importance of the Guru Granth Sahib in worship.
The Langar (Community Kitchen): The tradition of serving free meals to all visitors in the
Gurdwara, regardless of their background, as a symbol of selfless service (seva) and equality.
The Importance of Prayer: Sikhs are encouraged to pray daily, both individually and in
community, with prayers like the Nitnem (daily prayers) and Ardas (the prayer of supplication).
The significance of Naam Simran (the repetition of God's name) as a way of remaining connected
to Waheguru is a key practice.
Amrit (Baptism) Ceremony: The initiation ceremony in Sikhism, where Sikhs are baptized to
formally join the Khalsa, a community of committed Sikhs who follow the teachings of the Gurus
and live by the Sikh code of conduct.
, The Sikh Code of Conduct: Living a life based on the teachings of the Gurus, including
maintaining the five articles of faith, committing to service, living a truthful and honest life, and
being compassionate and selfless.
Festivals: The major Sikh festivals, including Gurpurabs (celebrations of the Gurus' birthdays),
Vaisakhi (marking the formation of the Khalsa in 1699), and Diwali (celebrating the release of
Guru Hargobind from imprisonment).
3. The Role of the Khalsa
The Khalsa: The community of initiated Sikhs, formed by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. Members
of the Khalsa take an oath to uphold the values of Sikhism, including commitment to equality,
justice, and the defense of the oppressed.
The Role of the Panj Piare (Five Beloved Ones): The five Sikhs who were chosen by Guru
Gobind Singh to be the first members of the Khalsa. Their role in initiating the first five Sikhs into
the Khalsa will be a key area of focus.
The Five Ks: The five articles of faith worn by members of the Khalsa, which are:
1. Kesh (uncut hair) – a symbol of spirituality and respect for God's creation.
2. Kara (steel bracelet) – a reminder of the oneness of God and the connection to the Guru.
3. Kanga (comb) – to maintain cleanliness and discipline.
4. Kachera (cotton underwear) – representing modesty and self-control.
5. Kirpan (ceremonial sword) – symbolizing the duty to defend the oppressed and uphold
justice.
4. Sikh Ethics and Morality
Seva (Selfless Service): The concept of service to others without expecting anything in return.
Students will need to understand how seva is a central aspect of Sikh practice, whether it is done
in the Gurdwara or in the community.
Simran (Remembrance of God): The practice of remembering God's name in everyday life,
fostering a spiritual connection with Waheguru.
Equality and Justice: Sikhism emphasizes the equality of all people, regardless of their caste,
gender, or social status. The principles of social justice and the defense of human rights are
integral to Sikh teachings.
5. Sikhism in the Modern World
Sikh Identity and the Role of Sikhs Today: The importance of maintaining a distinct Sikh
identity, especially through the five articles of faith. Students will need to explore how Sikhs
today balance their religious commitments with contemporary life and challenges, including the
challenges of living as a Sikh in a diverse, multicultural society.
Global Sikh Community: The spread of Sikhism beyond India, particularly to countries like the
United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada. The role of Sikhs in global humanitarian work
and their contributions to the wider community.
*JUN2480621701*
IB/M/Jun24/G4005/E4 8062/17
, 2
Do not write
outside the
0 1 Sikhism: Beliefs box
0 1 . 1 Which one of the following is not a barrier to mukti?
[1 mark]
Put a tick () in the box next to the correct answer.
A Anger
B Greed
C Illusion
D Wisdom 1
0 1 . 2 Give two ways that Sikhs can carry out sewa.
[2 marks]
1
2
2
*02*
IB/M/Jun24/8062/17
Sikhism
(Merged Question Paper and Marking Scheme)
Thursday 9 May 2024
Please write clearly in block capitals.
Centre number
Candidate number
Surname
Forename(s)
Candidate signature
I declare this is my own work.
GCSE
RELIGIOUS STUDIES A
Paper 1 Sikhism
Thursday 9 May 2024 Morning Time allowed: 1 hour 45 minutes
Materials
For Examiner’s Use
Before you open this book, you must ensure you also have:
• the Question Paper/Answer Book for the other religion option Question Mark
you are entered for (Buddhism, Catholic Christianity, Christianity, Hinduism,
Islam or Judaism). 01.1
You will have 1 hour 45 minutes to complete both Question Paper/Answer Books. 01.2
Instructions 01.3
• Use black ink or black ball-point pen. 01.4
• Fill in the boxes at the top of this page and on your other book.
• Answer all questions. 01.5
• If you need extra space for your answer(s), use the lined pages at the end of 02.1
this book. Write the question number against your answer(s). 02.2
• Do all rough work in this book. Cross through any work you do not want to
be marked. 02.3
• You must answer the questions in the spaces provided. Do not write outside the 02.4
box around each page or on blank pages. 02.5
Information
TOTAL
• The maximum mark for this paper is 51.
• The marks for the questions are shown in brackets.
• Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar (SPaG) will be assessed in the 12-mark
question in the Beliefs section.
Advice
You are advised to spend 50 minutes on this religion option and 50 minutes on your other religion option.
,GCSE Religious Studies A: Paper 1 - Sikhism Summary
The GCSE Religious Studies A: Paper 1 - Sikhism, scheduled for May 2024, will assess students’
understanding of the Sikh faith, its core beliefs, practices, and how these influence the lives of its
followers. The exam will cover essential teachings, key figures, scriptures, and Sikh practices, as well as
the significance of Sikhism in contemporary society. Students will need to demonstrate a solid
understanding of Sikh beliefs and how they shape the personal, social, and religious life of Sikhs.
Key Areas Covered:
1. Beliefs in Sikhism
The Oneness of God (Waheguru): Sikhism teaches that there is only one God, Waheguru, who is
formless, eternal, and beyond human comprehension. Students will need to understand the
significance of God's oneness and the belief that God is both transcendent and immanent, present
in all of creation.
Mool Mantar: The opening verse of the Guru Granth Sahib, which outlines key attributes of God,
including omnipresence, omnipotence, and timelessness. Students should understand its meaning
and significance in Sikh theology.
The Nature of Humanity: Sikhs believe that all humans are equal and that life should be lived
with humility, service to others, and devotion to God. The concept of human life as a gift from
God, with a purpose to attain spiritual liberation (Mukti) through devotion, prayer, and righteous
living, will be key.
The Five Beliefs (The Five Ks): The five articles of faith (Kesh, Kara, Kanga, Kachera, and
Kirpan) that every Sikh man or woman may wear, each symbolizing a different aspect of their
commitment to Sikh values and service to humanity.
Reincarnation and Karma: Sikhs believe in the cycle of reincarnation (samsara), where the soul
is reborn until it reaches liberation (Mukti). The actions (karma) of a person influence their future
lives, and good deeds lead to liberation.
Guru Nanak and the Gurus: The teachings of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, and the
subsequent nine Gurus. The significance of the Gurus' teachings, their role in spreading the faith,
and their emphasis on equality, justice, and devotion to God.
The Guru Granth Sahib: The central scripture of Sikhism, regarded as the eternal Guru. It is a
compilation of hymns (Shabads) and teachings from various Sikh Gurus, as well as Hindu and
Muslim saints. Understanding the spiritual significance and the role of the Guru Granth Sahib in
Sikh worship will be essential.
The Sikh Concept of the Afterlife: Sikhism teaches that after death, the soul is judged based on
its actions in life, and those who have lived a righteous life are united with Waheguru, while those
who have lived selfishly will continue the cycle of rebirth.
2. Practices in Sikhism
The Gurdwara: The Sikh place of worship, where Sikhs come together for prayers, hymns, and
to learn from the Guru Granth Sahib. Students should understand the role of the Gurdwara in the
community, as well as the importance of the Guru Granth Sahib in worship.
The Langar (Community Kitchen): The tradition of serving free meals to all visitors in the
Gurdwara, regardless of their background, as a symbol of selfless service (seva) and equality.
The Importance of Prayer: Sikhs are encouraged to pray daily, both individually and in
community, with prayers like the Nitnem (daily prayers) and Ardas (the prayer of supplication).
The significance of Naam Simran (the repetition of God's name) as a way of remaining connected
to Waheguru is a key practice.
Amrit (Baptism) Ceremony: The initiation ceremony in Sikhism, where Sikhs are baptized to
formally join the Khalsa, a community of committed Sikhs who follow the teachings of the Gurus
and live by the Sikh code of conduct.
, The Sikh Code of Conduct: Living a life based on the teachings of the Gurus, including
maintaining the five articles of faith, committing to service, living a truthful and honest life, and
being compassionate and selfless.
Festivals: The major Sikh festivals, including Gurpurabs (celebrations of the Gurus' birthdays),
Vaisakhi (marking the formation of the Khalsa in 1699), and Diwali (celebrating the release of
Guru Hargobind from imprisonment).
3. The Role of the Khalsa
The Khalsa: The community of initiated Sikhs, formed by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. Members
of the Khalsa take an oath to uphold the values of Sikhism, including commitment to equality,
justice, and the defense of the oppressed.
The Role of the Panj Piare (Five Beloved Ones): The five Sikhs who were chosen by Guru
Gobind Singh to be the first members of the Khalsa. Their role in initiating the first five Sikhs into
the Khalsa will be a key area of focus.
The Five Ks: The five articles of faith worn by members of the Khalsa, which are:
1. Kesh (uncut hair) – a symbol of spirituality and respect for God's creation.
2. Kara (steel bracelet) – a reminder of the oneness of God and the connection to the Guru.
3. Kanga (comb) – to maintain cleanliness and discipline.
4. Kachera (cotton underwear) – representing modesty and self-control.
5. Kirpan (ceremonial sword) – symbolizing the duty to defend the oppressed and uphold
justice.
4. Sikh Ethics and Morality
Seva (Selfless Service): The concept of service to others without expecting anything in return.
Students will need to understand how seva is a central aspect of Sikh practice, whether it is done
in the Gurdwara or in the community.
Simran (Remembrance of God): The practice of remembering God's name in everyday life,
fostering a spiritual connection with Waheguru.
Equality and Justice: Sikhism emphasizes the equality of all people, regardless of their caste,
gender, or social status. The principles of social justice and the defense of human rights are
integral to Sikh teachings.
5. Sikhism in the Modern World
Sikh Identity and the Role of Sikhs Today: The importance of maintaining a distinct Sikh
identity, especially through the five articles of faith. Students will need to explore how Sikhs
today balance their religious commitments with contemporary life and challenges, including the
challenges of living as a Sikh in a diverse, multicultural society.
Global Sikh Community: The spread of Sikhism beyond India, particularly to countries like the
United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada. The role of Sikhs in global humanitarian work
and their contributions to the wider community.
*JUN2480621701*
IB/M/Jun24/G4005/E4 8062/17
, 2
Do not write
outside the
0 1 Sikhism: Beliefs box
0 1 . 1 Which one of the following is not a barrier to mukti?
[1 mark]
Put a tick () in the box next to the correct answer.
A Anger
B Greed
C Illusion
D Wisdom 1
0 1 . 2 Give two ways that Sikhs can carry out sewa.
[2 marks]
1
2
2
*02*
IB/M/Jun24/8062/17
