When preparing for the Christian Religious Studies (CRS) examination, it is essential to study the WAEC syllabus.
This syllabus serves as a roadmap, providing you with the necessary guidance and topics to focus on.
In this blog post, we will explore the aims and objectives of the CRS syllabus, the exam format, and the recommended textbooks.
Whether you’re a student or a teacher, this post will help you navigate the syllabus and make the most of your exam preparation.
Aims and Objectives:
The CRS syllabus aims to equip candidates with knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the religious, cultural, historical, and social background of the prescribed biblical materials.
By studying the selected passages and themes from the Bible, candidates will grasp the moral lessons they convey and understand their relevance to present-day life.
Additionally, the syllabus aims to identify the challenges in applying biblical principles for promoting peaceful coexistence and national development.
Finally, it emphasizes the development of critical thinking and independent study skills necessary for higher education.
Exam Format:
The CRS examination consists of two papers: Paper 1 and Paper 2.
Paper 1
is a multiple-choice section comprising fifty objective questions, to be completed within one hour for a total of 40 marks.
Paper 2
an essay-type section with nine questions, out of which candidates must answer four.
The time allotted for Paper 2 is two hours, and it carries 60 marks.
The questions in Paper 2 are divided into three sections:
Section A
(Themes from the Old Testament),
Section B
(Themes from the Synoptic Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles), and SecSyllabus Breakdown:
Section A – Themes from the Old Testament:
This section covers various themes from the Old Testament.
Topics include the sovereignty of God, leadership roles of Joseph, Moses, Joshua, and Deborah, parental responsibility using the example of Eli and Samuel, consequences of Saul’s disobedience, submission to the will of God illustrated by David’s life, decision-making using the examples of Solomon and Rehoboam, religious tensions during Ahab’s reign, greed and its effects seen in Ahab and Gehazi, religious reforms during the reign of King Josiah, and concern for one’s nation.
Section B – Themes from the Synoptic Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles:
This section focuses on themes from the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) and the Acts of the Apostles.
Topics include the baptism and temptation of Jesus, the call and demands of discipleship, Jesus’ teachings on forgiveness, the trials of Jesus, the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, fellowship in the early church, the Holy Spirit and the mission to the Gentiles, and opposition to the gospel message.
Section C – Themes from selected Epistles: In this section, selected themes from Epistles are covered.
Topics include faith and works, impartiality, effective prayers as highlighted in the Epistle of James, good citizenship, Christians living among non-Christians, and interpersonal relationships among Christians as discussed in the Epistle of 1 Peter.
Recommended Textbooks:
To aid your preparation, the WAEC recommends the following textbooks:
- The Holy Bible (Revised Standard Version)
- New Clarendon Bible Series
- John Bright: History and Religion of Israel
- B. W. Anderson: The Living World of the Old Testament
- H. C. Kee & F. Young: The Living World of the New Testament
- D. B. J. Cambell: The Synoptic Gospels
- New Bible Commentary – Cambridge
- T. N. O. Quarcoopome: History and Religion of Israel
- Kwesi I. Dickson: History and Religion of Israel (From the Institution of the Monarchy to the fall of the Northern Kingdom)
- H. A. Guy: The Life of Christ, The Acts of the Apostles
- John S. Pobee: Matthew and Mark for Schools
- K. A. Dickson: The Gospel According to Luke
- Joshua Awolabi: Simple Approach to Christian Religious Knowledge
Conclusion
Studying the WAEC Christian Religious Studies (CRS) syllabus is crucial for effective exam preparation.
It provides a clear outline of the topics to cover and ensures that you focus on the relevant concepts.
By following the syllabus and using the recommended textbooks, you can enhance your understanding of biblical materials, moral lessons, and their application in today’s world.
