Question 1: Describe the significance of prayer in the practice of a major world religion of your choice. Include how and when it is typically performed.

Answer: In many religions, prayer is a way to communicate with God or spiritual beings. For example, Muslims pray five times daily facing Mecca, using specific recitations and physical postures. Christians may pray individually or in groups, often in church, during specific services or at personal times.

Question 2: Explain the purpose of fasting in religious practice. Provide an example of a religious group that observes fasting and describe how they do it.

Answer: Fasting is a practice of abstaining from food, drink, or other pleasures to focus on spiritual growth, discipline, or reflection. For example, Muslims observe Ramadan by fasting from dawn to sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs, to develop self-control and empathy for the less fortunate.

Question 3: Identify and describe a religious ritual that involves a symbolic act. Explain what the act represents.

Answer: Baptism in Christianity involves pouring or immersing a person in water, symbolizing purification, rebirth, and acceptance into the faith. It represents washing away sins and starting a new spiritual life.

Question 4: Draw a simple diagram or sketch that represents a place of worship from a religion of your choice. Label the key features and explain their significance.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a building with features such as a prayer hall or sanctuary, a place for community gathering, and symbols or icons relevant to the religion. Labels might include 'Altar', 'Prayer Area', and 'Symbol of faith'. The explanation should connect each feature to its religious purpose.

Question 5: Compare and contrast two different religious practices related to festivals or celebrations. How do these practices reflect the beliefs of each religion?

Answer: For example, Christian Christmas involves gift-giving and feasts to celebrate the birth of Jesus, reflecting beliefs about incarnation and salvation. Hindu Diwali involves lighting lamps and fireworks to symbolize the victory of light over darkness, representing spiritual victory and renewal.

Question 6: Explain the role of pilgrimage in religious practice. Provide an example of a well-known pilgrimage site and its significance.

Answer: Pilgrimage is a journey to a sacred site to seek spiritual growth, penance, or connection with the divine. For example, Muslims travel to Mecca for Hajj, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, symbolizing unity, submission to God, and spiritual renewal.

Question 7: Describe a religious practice that involves community participation. Why is community important in this context?

Answer: Group worship, such as attending church services or mosque prayers, fosters a sense of belonging and shared faith. Community participation reinforces religious identity, provides mutual support, and allows collective expression of beliefs.

Question 8: Identify the key steps or elements involved in performing a specific religious rite or ceremony of your choice and explain their significance.

Answer: In Jewish Passover Seder, key steps include recounting the Exodus story, eating symbolic foods like unleavened bread and bitter herbs, and singing songs. These elements commemorate liberation from slavery and reinforce faith in God's deliverance.

Question 9: Write a short paragraph explaining how religious practices can influence moral behaviour and daily life.

Answer: Religious practices often promote moral values such as kindness, honesty, and charity. They provide guidelines for ethical behaviour, encouraging followers to live in accordance with their beliefs, which can positively impact their daily interactions and community life.