HSC Studies of Religion Question Thread

[georgiia]

Also if I could get some comments on this response:

Summarise the impact of Pope John XXIII (4 marks)
Pope John XXIII’s positive actions and understanding of interfaith relations revitalised the church’s thinking and strengthened the link between the church, Christianity and the modern secular world through his willingness to throw “[throw] open the windows” of the Church, and make it accessible to the modern day person; “seize the opportunity to look ahead”. Recognised amongst Christian adherents as the “good pope” and the “pope of unity”, John XXIII successfully updated Catholic doctrines and traditional practices through his encyclicals where he advocated for the recognition of multiple social justice issues which not only affected Christians, but which had a profound impact on the whole world. His impact on secular society can be seen with his persistent call for action to the UN to work for justice and human rights of all people. This was a theme which formed the basis for one of his most influential encyclicals, “Pacem in Terris” (peace on earth) which was addressed not just to Christians but “to all men of good will”. The impact of this encyclical saw a profound change in the Christian desire to work for the common good of humanity regardless of their creed. Furthermore, John XXIII’s ecumenical actions initiated a restoration of relationships, enabling the possibility of active conversation between Catholics and other Christian denominations. He welcomed Muslims to join Vatican II as “honoured guests” and thus made all religious traditions part of this significant event. The positive impact of this is seen with our contemporary Christian value of active involvement in interfaith initiatives such as the Christian-Jewish reconciliation which was a response to John XXIII’s call for Vatican II, and the statement released stating that Jews were not responsible for the death of Jesus of Nazareth. Pope John’s impact is seen through his profound legacy which continues to shape the third millennium of Christianity.

[jamonwindeyer]

Is it possible for me to get feedback for a short answer response to this question:
Thank You!! 

Sure thing!! Sorry to the people above, I didn't do 2-Unit SOR, hopefully someone can help you out soon and don't know much about that personality either!

Feedback is in bold:

Demonstrate the significance of the practice for the individual. (5 marks)   
The rite of Hajj is a significant personal experience for Muslims for two main reasons. Good first sentence - Answers the question directly. No time to muck around. Firstly it places adherents in situations which allow and encourage questions of spirituality to be asked. The opportunity to reassess and confirm Islamic beliefs is given to adherents as the individual embarks on a journey of strengthening their spirituality through worship, hardship and Salat. Good!. As an outward projection of the internal will to be reborn and as a symbol for purification, male pilgrims shave their heads. This complements the waring of the Ihram garments where individuals affirm a common identity before the eyes of God and are united as a single Umma. Good - Since you are talking about connection to beliefs, do you have any specific beliefs that are being strengthened/considered here? Perhaps Tawhid, Jannah? Thus, participation in Hajj enables the pilgrims spiritual rebirth and renewal through cleansing from sin; “Whoever performs the Hajj…will come home like a newborn”. Good reference, where's it from? Be sure to give the specific Quran/Hadith reference where possible. The external representation of this is seen in the new status that pilgrims adopt upon their completion of Hajj; females become Hajjah’s and males become Hajji’s. The internal representation of the strengthened and revived adherence to the Islamic faith is confirmed by the enduring desire to continue this relationship with Allah by the pilgrims after they return home. Furthermore, the Hajj focuses individuals on jihad; the personal struggle to follow the way of Allah. Good. The pilgrim reaffirms their devotion to Allah whilst experiencing a profoundly meaningful renewal of personal commitment to the Islamic faith. The practise of retracing the footsteps of Abraham, Muhammad, Ishmael, cursing Satan, giving Zakaat and praying for forgiveness compels the individual to gain a greater understanding of Islamic history and better prospects for reward in the afterlife. Good - This would be a good chance to link to the Islamic belief in the Prophets? Talbiyah is the public statement of submission to the will of Allah; “Here I am God at thy command”. It is expressed during Tawaf, and is significant in allowing the individual to experience spiritual rebirth and develop their sense of consciousness in God. I'd like to see a conclusion - Thus, it is clear how Hajj proves to be a significant practice for Muslims. Or similar?

I think this is a great response! Definitely at least four marks, and probably five - The reason I say probably isn't because of what is there, but because I don't think you'd be able to reproduce something of this length for a 5 marker in an exam! This is just over 300 words - I'd maybe expect this for a 7 marker (at a stretch), but a little much for a 5'er. You'll have to go through and condense everything down, focus on the sentences where you make direct references to aspects of Hajj rather than broader sweeping statements. Referencing specific beliefs of Islam could help you make your analysis more powerful.

That said, definitely high quality response - Well done I'll get to your other one soon!

[georgiia]

Sure thing!! Sorry to the people above, I didn't do 2-Unit SOR, hopefully someone can help you out soon and don't know much about that personality either!

Feedback is in bold:

Demonstrate the significance of the practice for the individual. (5 marks)   
The rite of Hajj is a significant personal experience for Muslims for two main reasons. Good first sentence - Answers the question directly. No time to muck around. Firstly it places adherents in situations which allow and encourage questions of spirituality to be asked. The opportunity to reassess and confirm Islamic beliefs is given to adherents as the individual embarks on a journey of strengthening their spirituality through worship, hardship and Salat. Good!. As an outward projection of the internal will to be reborn and as a symbol for purification, male pilgrims shave their heads. This complements the waring of the Ihram garments where individuals affirm a common identity before the eyes of God and are united as a single Umma. Good - Since you are talking about connection to beliefs, do you have any specific beliefs that are being strengthened/considered here? Perhaps Tawhid, Jannah? Thus, participation in Hajj enables the pilgrims spiritual rebirth and renewal through cleansing from sin; “Whoever performs the Hajj…will come home like a newborn”. Good reference, where's it from? Be sure to give the specific Quran/Hadith reference where possible. The external representation of this is seen in the new status that pilgrims adopt upon their completion of Hajj; females become Hajjah’s and males become Hajji’s. The internal representation of the strengthened and revived adherence to the Islamic faith is confirmed by the enduring desire to continue this relationship with Allah by the pilgrims after they return home. Furthermore, the Hajj focuses individuals on jihad; the personal struggle to follow the way of Allah. Good. The pilgrim reaffirms their devotion to Allah whilst experiencing a profoundly meaningful renewal of personal commitment to the Islamic faith. The practise of retracing the footsteps of Abraham, Muhammad, Ishmael, cursing Satan, giving Zakaat and praying for forgiveness compels the individual to gain a greater understanding of Islamic history and better prospects for reward in the afterlife. Good - This would be a good chance to link to the Islamic belief in the Prophets? Talbiyah is the public statement of submission to the will of Allah; “Here I am God at thy command”. It is expressed during Tawaf, and is significant in allowing the individual to experience spiritual rebirth and develop their sense of consciousness in God. I'd like to see a conclusion - Thus, it is clear how Hajj proves to be a significant practice for Muslims. Or similar?

I think this is a great response! Definitely at least four marks, and probably five - The reason I say probably isn't because of what is there, but because I don't think you'd be able to reproduce something of this length for a 5 marker in an exam! This is just over 300 words - I'd maybe expect this for a 7 marker (at a stretch), but a little much for a 5'er. You'll have to go through and condense everything down, focus on the sentences where you make direct references to aspects of Hajj rather than broader sweeping statements. Referencing specific beliefs of Islam could help you make your analysis more powerful.

That said, definitely high quality response - Well done I'll get to your other one soon!

Thanks!!!

[jamonwindeyer]

Also if I could get some comments on this response:

And let's do the 2nd one!

Click Here

Summarise the impact of Pope John XXIII (4 marks)
Pope John XXIII’s positive actions and understanding of interfaith relations revitalised the church’s thinking and strengthened the link between the church, Christianity and the modern secular world through his willingness to throw “[throw] open the windows” of the Church, and make it accessible to the modern day person; “seize the opportunity to look ahead”. Excellent introductory sentence, summarises the impacts nicely. The first quote worked well, the second feels a tad awkward, I'd stick with the first only. Recognised amongst Christian adherents as the “good pope” and the “pope of unity”, John XXIII successfully updated Catholic doctrines and traditional practices through his encyclicals where he advocated for the recognition of multiple social justice issues which not only affected Christians, but which had a profound impact on the whole world. Good, any examples of these social justice issues? His impact on secular society can be seen with his persistent call for action to the UN to work for justice and human rights of all people. This was a theme which formed the basis for one of his most influential encyclicals, “Pacem in Terris” (peace on earth) which was addressed not just to Christians but “to all men of good will”. Excellent. The impact of this encyclical saw a profound change in the Christian desire to work for the common good of humanity regardless of their creed. Furthermore, John XXIII’s ecumenical actions initiated a restoration of relationships, enabling the possibility of active conversation between Catholics and other Christian denominations. He welcomed Muslims to join Vatican II as “honoured guests” and thus made all religious traditions part of this significant event. The positive impact of this is seen with our contemporary Christian value of active involvement in interfaith initiatives such as the Christian-Jewish reconciliation which was a response to John XXIII’s call for Vatican II, and the statement released stating that Jews were not responsible for the death of Jesus of Nazareth. Pope John’s impact is seen through his profound legacy which continues to shape the third millennium of Christianity. Excellent.

Great work Georgia, I didn't study Pope John XXIII so don't perfectly know, but not much I'd recommend here - Definitely 4 marks in current form! Again, like above however, I think you'll have an issue with length. 300 words is a lot for a 4 marker. Work on condensing and picking the most important pieces of information to summarise the impact of the individual

[georgiia]

And let's do the 2nd one!

Click Here

Summarise the impact of Pope John XXIII (4 marks)
Pope John XXIII’s positive actions and understanding of interfaith relations revitalised the church’s thinking and strengthened the link between the church, Christianity and the modern secular world through his willingness to throw “[throw] open the windows” of the Church, and make it accessible to the modern day person; “seize the opportunity to look ahead”. Excellent introductory sentence, summarises the impacts nicely. The first quote worked well, the second feels a tad awkward, I'd stick with the first only. Recognised amongst Christian adherents as the “good pope” and the “pope of unity”, John XXIII successfully updated Catholic doctrines and traditional practices through his encyclicals where he advocated for the recognition of multiple social justice issues which not only affected Christians, but which had a profound impact on the whole world. Good, any examples of these social justice issues? His impact on secular society can be seen with his persistent call for action to the UN to work for justice and human rights of all people. This was a theme which formed the basis for one of his most influential encyclicals, “Pacem in Terris” (peace on earth) which was addressed not just to Christians but “to all men of good will”. Excellent. The impact of this encyclical saw a profound change in the Christian desire to work for the common good of humanity regardless of their creed. Furthermore, John XXIII’s ecumenical actions initiated a restoration of relationships, enabling the possibility of active conversation between Catholics and other Christian denominations. He welcomed Muslims to join Vatican II as “honoured guests” and thus made all religious traditions part of this significant event. The positive impact of this is seen with our contemporary Christian value of active involvement in interfaith initiatives such as the Christian-Jewish reconciliation which was a response to John XXIII’s call for Vatican II, and the statement released stating that Jews were not responsible for the death of Jesus of Nazareth. Pope John’s impact is seen through his profound legacy which continues to shape the third millennium of Christianity. Excellent.

Great work Georgia, I didn't study Pope John XXIII so don't perfectly know, but not much I'd recommend here - Definitely 4 marks in current form! Again, like above however, I think you'll have an issue with length. 300 words is a lot for a 4 marker. Work on condensing and picking the most important pieces of information to summarise the impact of the individual

Thanks!!

[georgiia]

Under which census option does New Age fall under?

And how would I respond to a question asking to account for a rise in New Age using census data if there no 'new age' box?

Thanks

[jamonwindeyer]

Under which census option does New Age fall under?

And how would I respond to a question asking to account for a rise in New Age using census data if there no 'new age' box?

Thanks

Hey! To my knowledge you'd need to look at specific examples of New Age if you wanted census data, scientology for example

Put simply, I doubt they'd ask a New Age question that required census data. You can account for the rise of New Age religion without it, and indeed, I'd wager the number of people in Australia who associate with a New Age religion would be close to statistically insignificant anyway

Elyse may have further insight, she's the Census expert, but those would be my thoughts!

[georgiia]

Hey! To my knowledge you'd need to look at specific examples of New Age if you wanted census data, scientology for example

Put simply, I doubt they'd ask a New Age question that required census data. You can account for the rise of New Age religion without it, and indeed, I'd wager the number of people in Australia who associate with a New Age religion would be close to statistically insignificant anyway

Elyse may have further insight, she's the Census expert, but those would be my thoughts!

I agree, I doubt that they'd ask but I got sent this from my teacher:

New Age is…a vast smorgasbord of beliefs and practices. Each New Ager fills his tray with whatever assortment fits his appetite. All is liberally seasoned with self-centeredness. It's really a Have-It-Your-Way religion – thus its modern appeal.  Although there are many branches of New Age thought – ranging from meditation to firewalking – they stem from an ancient stock.

  Using the above quote and census data account for the rise of New Age religion in Australia.

[jamonwindeyer]

I agree, I doubt that they'd ask but I got sent this from my teacher:

New Age is…a vast smorgasbord of beliefs and practices. Each New Ager fills his tray with whatever assortment fits his appetite. All is liberally seasoned with self-centeredness. It's really a Have-It-Your-Way religion – thus its modern appeal.  Although there are many branches of New Age thought – ranging from meditation to firewalking – they stem from an ancient stock.

  Using the above quote and census data account for the rise of New Age religion in Australia.

Brutal! I reckon what you'd actually do is look at the rise of No Religion, because a lot of New Age religions wouldn't be considered 'religions' by those who practice them. Beyond looking for specific data on specific new age religions, that is probably your best bet

PS - Accounting with Census data seems a bit backward anyway, because you 'account' for something by giving reasons it happens. You can account FOR census data, you can't really account WITH census data, at least in my opinion

[georgiia]

Brutal! I reckon what you'd actually do is look at the rise of No Religion, because a lot of New Age religions wouldn't be considered 'religions' by those who practice them. Beyond looking for specific data on specific new age religions, that is probably your best bet

PS - Accounting with Census data seems a bit backward anyway, because you 'account' for something by giving reasons it happens. You can account FOR census data, you can't really account WITH census data, at least in my opinion

Yeah ahah agreed

[1937jk]

hey guys,
So we are studying Islam and our significant practise is Hajj
 I'm really struggling to distinguish the significance aspects of Hajj because I feel like there is just so many,
I was wondering if anyone has a way of remembering all the different aspects and if you were to write an essay on it what parts could you identify as like the 'main ones'?
Thank you

[elysepopplewell]

I agree, I doubt that they'd ask but I got sent this from my teacher:

New Age is…a vast smorgasbord of beliefs and practices. Each New Ager fills his tray with whatever assortment fits his appetite. All is liberally seasoned with self-centeredness. It's really a Have-It-Your-Way religion – thus its modern appeal.  Although there are many branches of New Age thought – ranging from meditation to firewalking – they stem from an ancient stock.

  Using the above quote and census data account for the rise of New Age religion in Australia.

Just adding to the conversation above:
When people are being specific about their religion in the "other" section of the census, there are certain categories each fall into. So if you write Taoism or Confucianism, it is collected under "Chinese religions." You can see how each individual religious declaration is grouped on the ABS site here. If you have the ATAR Notes SOR book, this is discussed on page 8-11.

So the "New Age Religions" aren't always counted as "no religion" although some of them are. If you identify with rationalism or humanism, it's counted as "no religion" but can be found as their individual sub categories on the ABS website.
I don't think the question your teacher has given is too rough, other than that the quote is quite long, therefore a bit awkward to reference at times. I think you should look to your notes on secularism, because ultimately the same kind of reasons for the rise in secularism is very similar to the reasons for the rise in New Age religions - there's a growing disillusion for the main religious traditions, the focus is becoming increasingly on individuals and less on religious communities, and in a world of increasing "this product is personalised for you in marketing, there is a focus on individualised worship. Hope this helps!

[elysepopplewell]

hey guys,
So we are studying Islam and our significant practise is Hajj
 I'm really struggling to distinguish the significance aspects of Hajj because I feel like there is just so many,
I was wondering if anyone has a way of remembering all the different aspects and if you were to write an essay on it what parts could you identify as like the 'main ones'?
Thank you

Hey Firstly, I really recommend watching a documentary of the Hajj so that you can visually recognise the different steps and place them in order in a way that's not too dissimilar from remembering a narrative. I found that watching Friday Prayer, my practice, was really helpful in allowing me to remember each and every step in some kind of sequential order.

I suppose the most important aspect really depends on your essay question. See, if you were asked about how the Hajj expresses the principal beliefs of the religion, you'll be picking out different aspects than if you were asked about how Hajj contributes to the Muslim community. So in your notes, or just on some scrap paper to help you visualise it, I'd write down each aspect of the Hajj and then jot down: does this express a principal belief? does this emphasise one of the five pillars? What does this do for the individual? What does this do for the community?

This way, you'll identify some aspects of the Hajj that are real powerhouses in terms of your essay - they cover lots of different parts of the syllabus. And you'll come across some elements of the practice that are important for very particular aspects.

[georgiia]

Just adding to the conversation above:
When people are being specific about their religion in the "other" section of the census, there are certain categories each fall into. So if you write Taoism or Confucianism, it is collected under "Chinese religions." You can see how each individual religious declaration is grouped on the ABS site here. If you have the ATAR Notes SOR book, this is discussed on page 8-11.

So the "New Age Religions" aren't always counted as "no religion" although some of them are. If you identify with rationalism or humanism, it's counted as "no religion" but can be found as their individual sub categories on the ABS website.
I don't think the question your teacher has given is too rough, other than that the quote is quite long, therefore a bit awkward to reference at times. I think you should look to your notes on secularism, because ultimately the same kind of reasons for the rise in secularism is very similar to the reasons for the rise in New Age religions - there's a growing disillusion for the main religious traditions, the focus is becoming increasingly on individuals and less on religious communities, and in a world of increasing "this product is personalised for you in marketing, there is a focus on individualised worship. Hope this helps!

So just to clarify, if someone were to write yoga, then that'd be interpreted as 'new age' as of 2016 and prior to 2016 It would've been concodered 'no religion' ?
Thanks!!

[laurenf58]

Hey,

Just a quick question. I'm updating my post 1945 notes and i've currently got census data for 2011 and 2016. Should I get data from an earlier year or are recent statistics enough?

Thanks!